Nebelhorn Zeigersattel SW – NW (SP 4)

Nebelhorn Zeigersattel SW–NW (SP 4) launches from 1,910 m in the Allgäu Alps above Oberstdorf, catching wind from north, south-west, west or north-west depending on which of the site's takeoff options is in use. This is a demanding mountain site set in imposing high-alpine terrain, not a beginner hill, and every pilot needs a terrain briefing — in person or online — before flying here for the first time. The area's main hazard is a lee zone that forms on the south side of the ridge running toward the Nebelhorn whenever the north valley wind spills over it, particularly from around midday; pilots avoid that ground during valley-wind conditions and instead fly along or above the north side of the neighbouring Schattenberg. Landing options are similarly exacting: the main field at the Seealpe is only for pilots who have mastered top-landing technique and can rule out any risk to other people on the ground.

Launch & conditions

Launch only into wind from 300–350° and no stronger than 25 km/h, watching the valley wind building underneath; head west immediately after launching to stay clear of the lee behind the opposite Gundkopf ridge.

Local rules & hazards

The ridge toward the Nebelhorn develops a dangerous lee zone on its south side once the north valley wind overruns it, and the site has seen several serious accidents there — stay off that ground whenever the valley wind is running. Landing at the Seealpe requires mastered top-landing technique plus a safe distance from the adjacent reservoir lake.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Nebelhorn Zeigersattel SW – NW (SP 4), 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 Nebelhorn Zeigersattel SW – NW (SP 4) with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.