Best Conditions
Description
Located in the Tyrolean Oberland, in the Reutte basin, this paragliding site offers excellent cross-country opportunities and is frequently used by pilots. The launch site is about a ten-minute walk from the top station of the Reuttener cable cars. A windsock marks the spot at the edge of the ski slope. The launch area is approximately 40 meters wide and several hundred meters long, ending in a flat section of the slope. The site slopes slightly to the right, with some shrubs at the edge. Thermals typically rise along the eastern slopes, making takeoff easier, although westerly winds can sometimes cause issues.
After takeoff, you have two main options to gain altitude quickly: head left (north) over an alpine flower garden and a prominent forest ridge, or right (southwest) towards Hornberg, where reliable thermals rise from the rocky slopes.
The region offers routes in all directions, including west towards Tannheimer Tal, south towards Lechtal, and east towards Zugspitze. Once you find the house thermals and circle at the base, you'll be treated to an incredible panorama. On clear days, you can see the German lowlands, Lechtal, Zwischentoren with Zugspitze, and Tannheimertal. You can either enjoy the view or embark on a cross-country flight, often heading towards Lechtal.
The main wind direction is west, which can lead to significant lee turbulence. The launch site is not very large and can be turbulent. The prevailing lee thermals due to the westerly winds can be challenging for less experienced pilots. Be cautious of the lively valley wind.
Never launch towards Tannheimer Tal or fly below ridge height on the west side due to a wildlife protection area.
For more information on the cable car, visit: [Reuttener Seilbahnen](http://www.reuttener-seilbahnen.at/sommer/frame_s.php)
After landing, pilots often gather at the Stadel near the landing site, where Martin provides cold drinks and food on weekends. For accommodation, visit: [Ferienregion Reutte](http://www.ferienregion-reutte.at/)
Directions: Take the A7 via Memmingen, Kempten, and Füssen to Reutte, then head towards Lechtal, turn right to Höfen, and follow the signs to the Hahnenkamm cable car.
For more details, visit: [Gleitschirmclub Hahnenkamm](http://www.gleitschirmclub-hahnenkamm.at.tt/)
Launch Sites:
- East Launch: Direction E SE, easy difficulty, altitude 1805m. In summer, launch from the ski slope, about a 10-minute walk from the top station. In winter, ask the lift staff for the winter launch site.
- West Launch: Direction SW W, medium difficulty, altitude 1930m. Towards Tannheimer Tal, about a 25-minute walk from the top station to the summit. In winter, this launch site is more challenging and recommended only with strong westerly winds.
Landing Site:
- Höfen Landing Site: Medium difficulty, altitude 925m, about 400m from the valley station parking lot. Driving to the landing site is not allowed as it is a private road. The area can be turbulent during midday in spring and summer.
The Reutte area may not be as picturesque as Tannheim, Pfronten, or Füssen, but the flying conditions at Hahnenkamm are noteworthy. The thermals here generally reach higher altitudes compared to other areas, offering better cross-country potential. The site also benefits from a refreshment service at the landing site.
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