Rocca Patanua

Rocca Patanua, above the Susa Valley in Piedmont, is one of the most popular hike-and-fly launches in the area — smooth open fields that allow take-off in almost any wind direction. Two approaches are common: a shorter hike gaining about 800 m from Prarotto Church, or a longer one climbing 1,900–2,000 m straight from the valley floor, both reached entirely on foot via trail. The landing back down is a genuinely easy top landing, which suits a site built around the hike-in, fly-down rhythm. Snow is a real factor for much of the year here: from October through April or May, the take-off area can hold a significant amount of it, so it's worth checking current conditions before committing to the climb. The wide range of usable wind directions makes this a flexible option once the ground is clear.

Launch & conditions

Smooth open fields allow take-off in almost any wind direction; reach launch via a shorter hike from Prarotto Church (about 800 m of climbing) or a longer one straight from the valley floor (1,900–2,000 m).

Getting there & local rules

Access is entirely on foot via trail — no lift or drive to launch.

Local rules & hazards

From October through April or May, expect the take-off area to often carry significant snow, so check current conditions before setting out on the hike.

Check conditions before you fly

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