Sestola M. Calvanella (MO)

Sestola–Monte Cavalanella above Pian del Falco is a good XC site in Italy's Emilian Apennines, suited to experienced pilots. Ideal winds are N, NW and NE (weak S also works); take extra care with E and W. Two main takeoffs: north (easy, grassy, ample, on a gentle ski track — but turbulent from the tree line in easterlies) and south (technical, rocky, steep, requires good control). Nearby options for southerly and westerly days include the launches at Pian Cavallaro and Croce Arcana (both around 1,800 m).

Launch & conditions

North takeoff: easy, grassy, ample; ski track with gentle slope. In easterlies, turbulence from the tree line — better closer to the trees in the right wind direction. South takeoff: technical, rocky, steep — good control required. In E winds, the 'passo serra' takeoff near Pian del Falco (~1 km, below the winter ski road) works well. In S/W winds, use Pian Cavallaro (1,800 m) or Croce Arcana (1,800 m, Fanano municipality).

Getting there & local rules

Exit A1 (Milano–Bologna) at Modena Sud, follow Vignola, Fanano, then Sestola. From Sestola take the panoramic road up to Pian del Falco. Takeoff is on the hill just above Pian del Falco — 30 min on foot, or jeep shuttle available (Pian del Falco ski rental). Leave the car at Pian del Falco — do not try to drive up to takeoff.

Local rules & hazards

Do NOT fly in S or W winds — Apennine föhn, extremely rough, and wind strength can jump in minutes. Meridional (S/W) winds are commonly under-estimated by inexperienced or visiting pilots — treat forecast carefully. Site works better in post-frontal conditions; pre-frontal often brings S/W. Try to land in the official LZ. Respect crops and pastures.

Check conditions before you fly

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