Rittisberg

Rittisberg is a year-round paragliding site in Austria at about 1,482 m, launching east with a view across to the Dachstein massif. The takeoff sits right beside the top station of the local cable car and is a straightforward, uncomplicated launch. Getting up isn't always as easy as riding the lift, though: the chairlift only runs on Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays through summer, and outside those days you're looking at a shuttle from a local flying school or walking up under your own steam. Landing is in the meadow next to the car park below, so the whole loop — drive in, fly, walk to the car — is compact. Because it flies in every season rather than just summer, it's worth checking access days before you commit to a trip, since a mistimed midweek visit can turn a short flying day into a long hike.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Rittisberg, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Rittisberg with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.