Lensamansstarten

Lensmannsstarten is an acro-friendly site in Årdal, Ryfylke — a Norwegian cliff launch overlooking a small fresh-water lake, which is why it's chosen for acro training. The local club does not run a boat, though. Takeoff is on the edge of the cliff and can be challenging: it's rated IPP3 in general because of the wind conditions and turbulence at the takeoff. A slightly easier alternative launch sits to the right with limits on usable wind direction. Access is via a paid farm road with clear rules.

Launch & conditions

IPP3 rated. Takeoff sits on the edge of a cliff and can be turbulent depending on the wind direction. An alternative takeoff is available to the right of the main one — easier, but with a narrower wind-direction window.

Getting there & local rules

Drive to Årdal, Ryfylke. At the crossing towards Høiland Gard, exit and after about 100 m turn left towards a white farm — park by the parking area at the farm. Toll: pay 50 NOK in the wooden box (if the box is missing, walk to the farm and pay the farmer). Rules: 1) Pay if you drive up intending to fly (whether you actually fly or not). 2) Pay if you're picking up cars at takeoff for pilots who intended to fly. 3) Free if you're only driving up to pick up cars. Follow the road all the way to the top — drive carefully to spare the road, and expect sheep and cows. Landing: the Årdal football field — check it isn't in use before flying. Hang gliders use other fields — coordinate with the local club.

Local rules & hazards

Max altitude 1,067 m ASL. Regular takeoff is IPP3 due to turbulence at launch. In a SE wind the wall to the right can produce heavy downdraft — factor that into your line.

Check conditions before you fly

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