Parapente Walderalm

The launch site at Walderalm in Meransen, Italy, is known for its steep and challenging takeoff, primarily facing east. This site is mainly used when the cable car is not operational. It takes about 10-15 minutes to reach the launch site from Kieneralm, which is accessible by car. Pilots should be comfortable with reverse launches. The thermal updrafts can become quite strong around midday. If the wind is not directly aligned with the slope, be cautious of the wind systems around the mountain ridge, as rotors can form on both sides. For detailed information on the cable car operating times, visit [Meransen's official website](http://www.meransen.com/). The Gitschberg cable car operates from mid-June to October, with a midday break. Operating hours are from 8:30 to 11:45 and from 13:30 to 17:00. In spring, when the cable car is out of service, you can drive to the 'Scharte' parking lot near Kieneralm (1741 m). From there, it's about a 45-minute hike to the 'Gitschhütte' (2210 m), the mountain station of the cable car. Make sure to bring provisions, as the availability of open huts is uncertain. The Gitschenberg launch site offers a unique microclimate, providing special flying conditions. However, the risks should not be underestimated, especially with north winds. In such cases, consider the Seiser Alm as an alternative. During summer, the gondola only goes up to the mid-station. From there, you need to hike further to gain altitude. Without thermal support, the distance to the next landing spot is considerable, especially if you aim to land in Meransen. Landing near the church without gaining altitude is unrealistic, but landing near the railway on the slope is feasible. In winter, you can combine skiing with paragliding. If the lower slopes are snow-free, you can fly for 1-2 hours around midday. Thermals are usually found just west of the Kiener-Alm slope. Be mindful of power lines when approaching the landing zone. Winter launch sites are available near the summit station, facing west and east. The east-facing site is particularly good for cross-country thermals in spring. In spring, avoid flying in north winds and consider Kronplatz instead. Early thermals can be found on the east side of Gitschberg, near the summit. Popular routes include flying to Bruneck (Pfalzen) and back. If you find yourself low before Pfunderertal, fly into the valley for landing and thermal opportunities. The valley wind in Pustertal frequently changes with the sun, blowing east in the morning and west in the afternoon. This makes returning flights challenging, so most long-distance flights are done in reverse from Sillian. In autumn, the thermals provide a good alternative to the Dolomites. The cable car operates until mid-October. In high-pressure conditions with east winds, it's a 15-minute walk to Gitschhütte, where east-facing launches are better. The landing site in Meransen requires a glide ratio of at least 7 to reach without thermals. The landing site is higher than the valley station of the cable car, so plan your flight accordingly to avoid landing in the village. A good reference point is the church spire. For weather information, visit [South Tyrol Weather](http://www.provinz.bz.it/wetter/suedtirol.htm).