Wasserkuppe Westhang

Westhang is the most-flown slope on the Wasserkuppe, the Rhön hill where German gliding began in the early 20th century, and it's known for strong thermals especially in the afternoon, with over 300 m of height difference to work with. Landing is on the Deltawiese Sieblos meadow, or as a top landing back at launch, and there's an alternative northwest-facing launch point near the aviators' memorial when the wind swings that way. Being the busiest launch on the hill, pilots share the sky here with gliders, model aircraft and students, so situational awareness matters more than usual. As on every launch on the Wasserkuppe, paraglider and hang-glider starts are only from officially designated, published points with a launch marshal present, and glider winch or bungee-tow launches always take priority over other flying.

Launch & conditions

Strong thermals, especially in the afternoon, with over 300 m of height difference. An alternative northwest-facing launch sits near the aviators' memorial for days the wind swings that way.

Getting there & local rules

Park at the Wasserkuppe's central car park.

Local rules & hazards

The Wasserkuppe is a special landing field where glider winch and bungee-tow launches always have priority, and hang-glider/paraglider starts are only allowed from officially designated points with a launch marshal present. The surrounding core zone of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve rules out off-field landings, and motorized paragliders and hang gliders are not permitted anywhere on site.

Check conditions before you fly

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