Tocco Da Casauria

Tocco da Casauria sits on the edge of the Maiella National Park in central Abruzzo — a large, gently sloping east-north-east grassy takeoff at 650 m ASL, with a wooden shelter, multiple windsocks and an on-site telematic weather station. The mountain chain of Morrone rises directly behind, topping out at 2,060 m. The site normally flies from March to October, and afternoon sea breezes usually arrive between 13:30 and 14:30 to make the day. It is welcoming to all pilots and gives excellent XC opportunities — Morrone is a routine target, with the strongest pilots reaching the Gran Sasso.

Launch & conditions

Takeoff at 650 m ASL, exposure E-NE. Large gently sloping grassy area with multiple windsocks, a wide wooden shelter and a telematic weather station on site.

Getting there & local rules

Reached via an unpaved road (fine for any car). Ample parking near takeoff, then about a 100 m walk uphill. Landing: a large open farmer's field at ~400 m ASL, equipped with a windsock, clearly visible from launch and easily reached.

Local rules & hazards

Normally usable March to October. Best flights start early afternoon (13:30–14:30) once the sea breeze arrives.

Check conditions before you fly

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