Sonchaux (Villeneuve)

Sonchaux, above Villeneuve at the eastern end of Lake Geneva in Switzerland, is a versatile launch at 1,404 m that's part of a cluster of takeoffs on this ridge alongside Rochers de Naye and Jaman. Wind works here from north, southwest, west and northwest, and the terrain suits thermal, soaring and cross-country flying, plus flatland flying and hiking access. Getting there is by car from Villeneuve. Landing is down in Villeneuve itself. Swiss airspace is a genuinely complex topic, so check the current airspace picture and any active danger areas before you fly rather than relying on memory of a previous visit.

Launch & conditions

One of several launches on this ridge alongside Rochers de Naye and Jaman; wind works from north, southwest, west and northwest.

Getting there & local rules

Reached by car from Villeneuve. Landing is down in Villeneuve itself.

Local rules & hazards

Swiss airspace here is genuinely complex — check the current airspace picture and any active danger areas before you fly.

Check conditions before you fly

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