Xago

Xago's launch sits right on the Asturian coast at just 49 m, in northern Spain, and flies with wind from the north through west to northwest, a classic low-altitude coastal soaring setup. Access is via the road from Aviles toward Cabo Penas, taking the exit toward Acebo to reach the upper launch area known locally as Xago de Arriba. Landing is flexible: pilots can come back down at launch itself or head for Xago beach below, with both an upper (Xago de Arriba) and lower (Xago de Abajo) part of the site to work with. It's a well-liked local spot, known among regulars for good winds and a friendly flying scene rather than for technical difficulty. As with any coastal ridge, expect the usual soaring discipline: work the lift band along the cliff line and keep a clear head about wind strength before committing to a beach landing.

Launch & conditions

The upper launch, known locally as Xago de Arriba, is reached via the exit toward Acebo off the Aviles-Cabo Penas road.

Getting there & local rules

Take the road from Aviles toward Cabo Penas, then the exit toward Acebo to reach launch.

Check conditions before you fly

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