Podkonické pleše

Podkonické Pleše launches from a broad, gently sloping grass field at 951 m in central Slovakia, best flown in a light south wind or no wind at all — when thermals are strong, launches in north, west or east wind up to about 1–2 m/s are possible too, though the shallow slope means a genuinely fast run to get airborne. The surrounding area is excellent for cross-country, with plenty of thermals rising off the fields ahead. After launch, the standard line is straight out above the ridge; if no thermal turns up, the backup is a straightforward landing in the field just below. South of takeoff falls under military airspace, so that's worth factoring into any line planned in that direction. To reach launch, drive up from the village of Podkonice toward Podkonické Pleše; park at the mountain hut ('Chata na plešiach') and walk about 150 vertical meters up the hill from there. Landing options include a stretch of wide open fields in a straight line from takeoff, next to a ranch — worth watching for sheep, cattle and the mess they leave, plus overhead electric wiring — or fields on the northeast side of the village, usable when they're not under crop.

Launch & conditions

The grass launch is broad but only mildly sloped, so a no-wind takeoff needs a genuinely fast run; best conditions are light south wind or calm.

Getting there & local rules

Drive up from the village of Podkonice toward Podkonické Pleše; park at the mountain hut ('Chata na plešiach') and walk about 150 vertical meters up the hill to launch.

Local rules & hazards

South of takeoff falls under military airspace, so factor that into any line planned in that direction.

Check conditions before you fly

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