Montgirod – Arcachat

Montgirod-Arcachat is a high alpine XC launch in the Tarentaise valley of Savoie, at about 1,930 m. The site starts working early in the year and early in the day, thanks to a SE aspect above steep cow pastures and forest that catch the morning sun. In N through W winds, flights are possible before 1 pm thanks to the local orientation and the Centron/Villette microclimate — but once the Tarentaise valley system kicks in, it comes over the top and joins the valley wind from Moutiers, so timing matters. Cross-country is the primary use here. Two launch options exist along the mountain road above the cheese farm, one at about 2,000 m and a normally-preferred SW launch around 1,900 m.

Launch & conditions

The 2,000 m launch is under the power lines along the road above the cheese farm — take the 4×4 track to the right and pick a spot off the steeper slope. The 1,900 m launch is further southwest, past the refuge, on a steeper gradient marked by a small wind streamer near shrubs; park at the corner. It is the usual option — away from the power lines and easier to access.

Getting there & local rules

From Moutiers take the N90 toward Bourg-Saint-Maurice. After the tunnel, drive into Centron, then up toward Montgirod. Continue past Montgirod on a small tarmac farm road; park at the cheese farm where the tarmac ends, or continue higher if your car can handle it. It is roughly 15 km from Centron to launch — similar to the drive up to Col de la Forclaz from Doussard near Annecy.

Local rules & hazards

Landing in Centron after 11 am, once the Tarentaise valley wind has established, can be hazardous — venturi from the valley system makes it strong. In spring and autumn this is hunting country, so keep to open ground. Föhn days are not flyable here.

Check conditions before you fly

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