Sonnwendstein Startplatz 3

Sonnwendstein Startplatz 3 is a paragliding launch in Lower Austria that sees relatively little traffic compared with the region's more popular sites, but pilots who do fly here rate the thermals as genuinely good. Unusually, this mountain allows launches from almost any wind direction depending on which of its takeoffs is used — this specific launch, Startplatz 3, sits at roughly 1,246 m and faces north from a forest clearing. The clearing is narrow, and the takeoff is considered demanding rather than a straightforward walk-up launch, so it suits pilots who are already comfortable handling tighter, tree-lined starts rather than someone flying their first mountain site. The landing field lies west of the village of Maria-Schutz. Because it is lightly flown, do not expect much local chatter or a crowd to read conditions from — treat it with the same caution you would any quiet site, and confirm current conditions before committing to launch, especially given the narrow, forest-bound takeoff.

Launch & conditions

The takeoff is a narrow, north-facing forest clearing and is considered demanding — not a beginner-friendly walk-up launch.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Sonnwendstein Startplatz 3, 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 Sonnwendstein Startplatz 3 with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.