Bassano – South (da Bepi)

Bassano del Grappa, south of the Dolomites, is one of the busiest and most consistent flying areas in Europe. The south-facing 'da Bepi' launch sits at about 865 m and works on southeast, south and southwest winds. Local wisdom counts around 300 flyable days a year; when the rest of the Alps is grounded, Bassano is often the backup plan. The area suits everyone: gentle sled-runs for beginners keen on a first mountain flight, and long cross-country runs for experienced pilots — the classic route stretches east toward Slovenia and, in the right conditions, all the way to Croatia. Two rules matter here. First, a 'Fly Card' from the Consorzio Vivere il Grappa is mandatory. Second, every pilot must carry a green smoke flare, only to be used for a tree landing when no rescue is needed. Thermals typically hold under weak northerlies, but a strong north wind is a day-off day.

Launch & conditions

On take-off, paragliders must NOT turn immediately left. That corridor puts you directly in front of the hang-glider launch, which is not visible from the paragliding take-off (and vice versa). Fly straight out first, clear the ridge, then set your line.

Getting there & local rules

Official shuttles from the Monte Grappa Airpark shop are the easiest way up: La Freccia del Grappa (+39 331 5055888), Fausto Bosa (+39 347 1336169) or Enrico Brunello (+39 340 5015469). Driving up yourself also works. Do NOT use the old landing at the Shop any more — the current paragliding LZ is at the Garden Relais (approx N45°48.367' E11°47.117').

Local rules & hazards

Flying here requires a valid local Fly Card and a green smoke flare (to signal a tree landing where no rescue is needed). Weak north winds are generally workable with thermal support, but strong north winds demand real caution.

Check conditions before you fly

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