Schwartenberg Schlepp

Schwartenberg Schlepp is a combined hill and winch-tow site in the eastern Erzgebirge, launching on north and south winds from around 680 m, with a dedicated lane for both hang gliders and paragliders. The site actually offers two very different launches: student training flights are only permitted from the north launch, while the west paraglider launch is considerably more demanding and reserved for experienced pilots. Winch towing runs from the landing field itself, but only when the state of the crops in the fields allows it safely, and only after checking with the farmers who work the land — the whole operation depends on their cooperation each season. If model-aircraft flying is happening at the same time, the two activities have to coordinate directly under the normal airspace rules. Landings on the plot next to the pond are allowed only in turbulence-free conditions, with a healthy distance kept from the water, and every pilot gets a specific briefing on that landing area's quirks before using it.

Launch & conditions

Two distinct launches: student training flights only from the north launch, while the west paraglider launch is considerably more demanding and reserved for experienced pilots.

Local rules & hazards

Training flights are only permitted from the north launch; the west paraglider launch is considerably more demanding and reserved for experienced pilots. Winch towing depends on the season's crop growth and requires prior coordination with the farmers working the land. Landings on the plot next to the pond are allowed only in turbulence-free conditions, with distance kept from the water.

Check conditions before you fly

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