Located at an altitude of 1492 meters with a height difference of approximately 620 meters, this site is frequently used and offers excellent thermal soaring conditions, making it a good spot for cross-country flights. Top landing is generally straightforward.
Region: Montalegre, Portugal. The site record is 151.5 km.
For more information, you can check out this video: [YouTube Video](
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Local school/contact: [Wind Larouco Facebook Page](https://www.facebook.com/windlarouco/)
Takeoff: This premium site in the Iberian Peninsula allows for easy thermodynamic flights in all directions, whether towards Montalegre in the west, the Serra de Peneda-Gerês, or Xinzo in the north. However, access to the launch sites can be challenging during the winter months, limiting flying opportunities.
Difficulty: Beginners and occasional pilots should avoid flying from the afternoon to early evening during the summer due to strong thermals.
Getting There: From Porto, head to Braga and take the road to Chaves. After 60 km, you will reach Pisões, and shortly after, Montalegre.
Other Information: PAPAVENTOS - Clube de Desportos de Montanha
Rua do Forno Velho, Pt 17 - 5470 Montalegre
Tel. +351 (0)931/499 15 45 (Jaime Valdegas)
Tel. +351 (0)931/4199213 (Carlos Gonçalves)
Email: Papaventos@mail.pt
This site, located on the Portuguese-Spanish border in Trás-os-Montes, offers reliable summer thermals and various launch and landing options. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced pilots. Numerous competitions have been held here, attesting to its excellent flying conditions.
The Serra do Larouco is situated in the Trás-os-Montes region, in the famous Terras do Barroso, on the border between Orense and Portugal. To get there, you have two options: Porto, Vila Real, Montalegre, or Porto, Braga, Barragem da Caniçada, da Venda Nova, do Alto Rabagão, Montalegre. Upon arriving in Montalegre, head to Loja 4 or Confeitaria Campos, popular meeting spots for paragliders. Before flying, make sure to reserve some meat at the local butcher shop, as the free-range cattle in the area are of exceptional quality. In the evening, join others at the Piano Bar do Castelo for a fun night out.
This site hosted a Paragliding World Cup event in 2000 and is known for its ability to accommodate flights in all wind directions, with nearby alternatives in case of strong winds.
Orientation: West. To get there, pass through Sendim and turn right at the sign indicating 'Serra do Larouco' 1550 m. The road is accessible for all types of vehicles. The takeoff area is at the top of the mountain, after a large right-hand curve, about 100 meters in, where you will find a dirt road for about 150 meters. The takeoff area faces the Montalegre valley, with a height difference of 300 to 400 meters.
The takeoff area is spacious and mostly free of rocks. Coordinates: N 41º 53.141', W 007º 43.517'
Flight Type: Excellent conditions for thermal flights, with the possibility of transitioning to the Baltar valley and landing in that village. The transition involves crossing the narrow valley between Castro and Serra do Larouco, ensuring a tailwind for the 7 km distance to the Baltar border, even with a small altitude reserve. Thermals are easily located and work best in the afternoon, coinciding with the valley breeze. It is an excellent site for restitution flights.
Landing: The landing area is a pasture enclosed by a stone wall but is sufficiently large. There are many alternative fields available. The slope extends for 2.5 km and is mostly clear, with trees only appearing at the bottom of the valley.
