Ciavanis – Chialamberto

Ciavanis sits at about 1,709 m on the northern slope of the Lanzo Valley above the village of Vonzo, with take-off on a smooth 1,770 m grassy field big enough for tandems, hang-gliders and multiple paragliders to open at once. The site works on E, SE, S and SW flow. This is a genuine alpine flight with all its consequences — weather-sensitive, potentially very strong in early summer, and often the productive option in autumn when other Piedmont sites offer nothing more than a glide. The landing sits west of Chialamberto village, on the opposite side of the river from the main road with car access via a small bridge and parking at the ski-lift lot. Practically unusable in winter due to deep snow — plan for mid-summer through the first snowfall.

Launch & conditions

The take-off at 1,770 m on the northern side of the Lanzo Valley is a smooth grassy field suitable for less-experienced pilots as well as tandems and hang-gliders. Multiple gliders open at once with ease. Despite the gentle launch, remember this is alpine terrain — treat weather cues seriously.

Getting there & local rules

From Turin, get on the Tangenziale and take the exit toward Valli di Lanzo or Caselle airport. Either leads to the Lanzo valley. In the mountains, follow signs to Ceres, then Cantoira, Piagni, Bonzo, or Forno Alpi Graie. From the Susa valley or Fréjus tunnel, the fastest way is via the Colle del Lys mountain pass into the Lanzo valleys. Landing is about 800 m west of Chialamberto centre — a >100 m by 60 m field with a slight slope and a power line over its southern part. Park at the ski-lift lot 50 m away.

Local rules & hazards

Do not fly with strong westerly or NW winds. Absolutely no flying with föhn — extremely strong and turbulent with strong rotor. Unstable spring and early-summer days can build thunderstorms very fast. The afternoon valley breeze can make it hard to get back from the end of the valley to the landing site — plan the return accordingly.

Check conditions before you fly

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