Holzbauer

Holzbauer is an Austrian thermal, soaring, cross-country and hike-and-fly site at about 962 m, launching on wind from south-east through south to south-west. It's about an hour's hike up to the take-off area, which is spacious and genuinely easy to launch from once you're there — the main thing to watch for is cattle grazing the area, since launching is not permitted at all while cows are present, so check the current situation before committing to the climb. Roughly 500 m straight ahead of launch sits a reliable thermal spot that produces lift even in winters without snow. On landing, aim as far north as possible and avoid flying close over any horses that may be grazing in the western part of the landing area.

Launch & conditions

It's about an hour's hike up to launch, which is spacious and easy once you're there — but launching is not permitted at all while cows are in the area.

Getting there & local rules

Check the current access situation before committing to the hour-long hike up, since cattle presence can suspend flying entirely.

Local rules & hazards

Roughly 500 m straight ahead of launch is a reliable thermal spot that works even in snow-less winters. On landing, aim as far north as possible and avoid flying close over any horses grazing in the western part of the landing area.

Check conditions before you fly

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