Best Conditions
Description
The Piz Scalottas, located in the Lenzerheide region of Switzerland, offers a diverse and challenging paragliding experience. The take-off point is at an elevation of 2310 meters, accessible via a chairlift from Lenzerheide to Tgantieni and then another lift to the mountain lodge Piz Scalottas. The launch site is a moderately steep, rocky meadow, facing southwest.
This site is popular among hang gliders and paragliders alike, with excellent cross-country (XC) potential. The site record stands at 82.8 km. However, it is essential to be aware of specific regulations and conditions:
- South and west of Scalottas (towards Savognin and Thusis), maintain a minimum distance of 300 meters from the terrain below 2200 meters.
- In the morning, this distance applies immediately after take-off, requiring a direct glide away from the terrain.
- No flights or take-offs in a southern direction in the morning.
- The southern ridge must be overflown with at least 100 meters of ground clearance.
- When flying north along the mountain chain, respect the wildlife protection zones around Piz Danis/Raschil and Fulhorn.
- For valley crossings eastwards, adhere to the rules around Lenzerhorn.
- For valley crossings westwards, follow the regulations for Heinzenbergergrat and Beverin.
Detailed information is available at the launch site, on the information board at the mountain restaurant, and at the cable car ticket offices.
Afternoon thermals are the strongest, sometimes too intense for inexperienced pilots. Wind conditions must be carefully assessed, as landing in the valley can be challenging due to strong valley winds. The Föhn wind can be turbulent, and the northern valley wind can be tricky, especially in mid-year.
The two main challenges that make Scalottas notorious are:
1. Extremely strong thermal winds during peak season, which can lead to dust devils.
2. Strong valley winds at the landing site in Lenzerheide, causing turbulence, especially in the afternoon.
For more information, visit the local club's website: [Fly Domleschg](http://www.flydomleschg.ch/scalottas.html).
The Piz Scalottas is also known for its historical significance in skiing, having hosted Swiss Ski Championships and Women's Ski World Cup events. The steep start and thermally active environment demand a lot from pilots, making it a site where "if you can fly here, you can fly anywhere."
For additional details, check the Lenzerheide mountain railways website: [Lenzerheide Bergbahnen](http://www.lenzerheide.com/sites/content/bergbahnen.html).
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