Best Conditions
Description
At an altitude of 1580 meters with a height difference of 790 meters, this paragliding site in Rottach-Egern, Germany, is highly frequented and offers excellent thermal soaring conditions, making it a prime location for cross-country flights.
The launch site, known as "Kircherl," is located near a small chapel. The take-off area is below the path, while equipment preparation can be done above it. This site is ideal for paragliders and hang gliders, especially in strong valley winds and wind directions from North to North-Northeast. It's crucial to determine the actual wind direction using the flag south of the chapel and the windsock at the summit, rather than relying solely on the windsocks directly in the corridor.
For wind directions from West through South to East, starting at the new launch site can be dangerous due to potential lee-side conditions caused by thermals or rotors. In such cases, starting at the Alm is a safer option. There are no suitable launch sites at Wallberg for pure South to East winds.
The launch area was upgraded in late 2014 with coconut mats, which will eventually be covered with grass, creating a well-maintained natural launch site. Equipment setup and preparation should be done above the path, but launching is only permitted below it. It's important to ensure that no pedestrians are endangered during take-off.
During the grazing season, the entire launch area is fenced to protect it from hoof damage and cow droppings. If the fence is accidentally knocked down during a failed launch, it should be reassembled, and the electric fence can be turned off for this purpose. If the fence cannot be repaired, notify the appropriate authorities.
Even in strong winds, the wing remains stable after being laid out, thanks to the terrain's upper edge. This makes it easier for pilots who struggle with reverse launching. After take-off, thermals and valley winds will quickly lift you upwards, without the immediate risk of collapses that can occur at the Alm.
The launch site is a narrow and steep corridor, bordered by trees on both sides and at the end. Ensure you lay out your wing away from the trees and check both sides before take-off to avoid entanglement. The lower trees at the end of the corridor have not posed a problem for pilots, except in lee-side conditions with South, West, or East winds.
Key points to remember:
- Launch only below the path to avoid endangering pedestrians.
- Ensure the main wind direction is correctly identified using the summit windsocks or the flag behind the chapel. Launching in unrecognized lee conditions can be life-threatening. Safe wind directions for launching at Kircherl are from North-Northwest to Northeast. Launching is not advisable for wind directions from East through South to West.
For more information, visit [Fliegerclub Tegernsee](https://fliegerclubtegernsee.de/?page_id=24).
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