Paragliding Certosa di Padula

Located in Italy, this paragliding site offers an easy launch at an altitude of 1367 meters with a height difference of 861 meters. The site is regularly used for thermal soaring, and some cross-country (XC) flights are possible. The site record is 32.1 km. For assistance and to fly together with local pilots, contact the Flymarathea club. They are very welcoming to guests. More information can be found on their website: [Flymarathea](http://www.flymaratea.it/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=60&Itemid=126). The launch area is easily accessible, but reaching it requires a 4x4 vehicle. The landing zone is 700 meters below the launch site and is also easy to access. However, permits are required to land here. The distance between the launch and landing zones by car is 20 km, and it typically takes about 30 minutes to travel between them. A single traction vehicle can be used to reach the landing zone. If you are traveling south on the highway, you will pass through Padula. From Praia a Mare, it is a considerable distance. The large valley generates strong thermals that can be flown well into the evening. Due to the venturi effect, the wind at the launch site is stronger than outside, allowing for safe launches at wind speeds up to 25 km/h. Local pilot Giulio is very knowledgeable about the area and can guide you to additional launch sites on the other side of the valley. He can also organize Jeep rides to the launch site on weekends. Directions: Exit the highway at Padula, A30 Salerno-Reggio Calabria. Head towards Padula, then up the mountain through the town center towards Paterno and into the forest. At the first unmarked fork, turn right and follow the forest track for about 7 km, which includes several steep sections, until you reach the chapel. The last 20 minutes may need to be covered on foot. Giulio from the club can organize Jeep rides on weekends. Flying over Padula and the Certosa di San Lorenzo monastery is not recommended with a south wind. Afternoon thermals are productive along the mountain slopes, but always maintain enough altitude for a safe landing approach due to power lines. Contacts: - Angelo: Mobile: +39 338 53 44 710 (Offers tandem flights for tourists in summer) - Giulio: Mobile: +39 347 36 30 312 (Helps maintain the launch site) - Nicholas Rinaldi: Mobile: +39 347 55 70 595, [Fly Tirreno](http://www.flytirreno.com) (Runs an online paragliding shop and speaks fluent English) For more information, visit [Fly Tirreno](http://www.flytirreno.com) and [Volareshop](http://www.volareshop.it).