Mont – Soleil

Mont-Soleil launches from 1,156 m in the Swiss Jura mountains, well regarded as a good spot for crossing around the range, with thermals and cross-country flying both on offer across east, southeast, south and southwest winds. Access up is genuinely pleasant — a funicular that runs on green energy takes you there. The launch itself is tight: the source is explicit that there isn't much room for takeoff, on a grassy patch compared to a well-kept lawn, so a careful, deliberate launch matters more here than at a wide-open meadow site. Airspace is worth checking before you fly — the La Chaux-de-Fonds control zone (CTR) sits to the west of the launch. Landing is down near the Longines watch factory, a clear, recognizable landmark to aim for on the way in.

Getting there & local rules

Access is by a funicular that runs on green energy. The landing is near the Longines factory.

Local rules & hazards

Takeoff space is limited — a careful, deliberate launch matters here. The La Chaux-de-Fonds control zone (CTR) sits to the west of the launch, so check airspace before flying.

Check conditions before you fly

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