Located in the Setubal region near Lisbon, Portugal, this paragliding site offers a fantastic experience with a height of 358 meters and a flight distance of up to 4500 meters. It is frequently used and known for good soaring conditions, with occasional opportunities for inland cross-country flights. However, please note that the site is closed from June to September due to restrictions imposed by the natural park.
The site record for this location is an impressive 39.6 km. For more details, you can visit [this link](https://www.nca.pt/havefun/earrabi.html).
Takeoff is situated midway up the mountain, accessible via the main road. Stop at the viewpoint for a scenic start. Note that flight baptisms at this location require a specific voucher.
For flights towards the south, the takeoff is below the first viewpoint overlooking Figueirinha Beach. The landing spot is the beach itself, visible immediately after takeoff. For flights towards Portinho da Arrábida Beach, the takeoff is from a wooden ramp initially built for delta wings but now used for paragliding. Be cautious as this ramp is technically challenging and can damage wings. The landing is the entire beach below.
For northern flights, the official takeoff requires a 10-minute uphill walk through the mountain. However, many pilots prefer to take off from the first viewpoint north of the Figueirinha takeoff. The official landing spot is the area surrounding a small, old house visible from the viewpoint.
For those seeking a more adventurous takeoff, the highest point of the mountain, Formosinho, offers a takeoff near the geodetic marker at approximately 500 meters altitude. This requires a 30-minute hike through more challenging terrain and is prohibited by the natural park, but the view is worth it.
Coordinates for takeoffs:
- Figueirinha SW: N 38º 29.387', W 008º 57.385'
- Portinho - Wooden Ramp SE: N 38º 28.899', W 008º 59.357'
- Northern Takeoff (Mirador) N: N 38º 29.649', W 008º 58.015'
The Arrábida region is an excellent location for paragliding, offering thermodynamic conditions ideal for beginners. The takeoffs are technically challenging, located above Figueirinha Beach and Portinho Beach. A new takeoff between these two is being negotiated with the Natural Park, which promises optimal conditions.
Be mindful of your altitude to ensure a safe landing on the beaches, particularly at Figueirinha Beach, where wind acceleration can be tricky. There have been instances of pilots landing in the water due to this phenomenon.
For more information, you can check out [Rotas do Vento](http://rotasdovento.com/gca/?id=115) and [SkyXplorer](https://www.skyxplorer.com/zonas-de-voo/).
Watch some flights from this location:
- [Flight Video 1](
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- [Flight Video 2](
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- [Flight Video 3](
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- [Flight Video 4](
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- [Flight Video 5](
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