Ens

Ens is another Pyrenean north-west-facing takeoff in the Aure valley, at 1,300 m — an end-of-day site to catch restitution above the village of Ens. There are two launches: a low takeoff off the car park (exit is turbulent — best avoided) and a proper top takeoff above it, which is the one to use. As with the other Aure valley sites, a south wind here is very dangerous. The federal landing is again at Vignec.

Launch & conditions

North-west-facing takeoff at 1,300 m. Two options: a low takeoff from the car park (exit is turbulent — avoid) and a top takeoff (preferred).

Getting there & local rules

Access via the village of Ens. Federal landing at Vignec: take the Thermes road and turn right after the bridge — land only on the marked FFVL ground; the neighbours will not accept landings anywhere else.

Local rules & hazards

South wind is very dangerous here — do not fly it. Watch for strong afternoon breeze in summer at landing, and the phone line along the edge of the landing road at Vignec.

Check conditions before you fly

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