Paragliding Courses and Holidays in France,South Africa and Nepal

This thermalling and XC masterclass is aimed at pilots who already have some thermalling and XC experience but wish to extend their ability to fly Cross Country in alpine conditions. As a minimum we would expect that participants would already be able to climb to cloudbase and complete XC flights of up to about 20k. During the course we will be covering all aspects of Alpine XC flying (practical and some theory) including competition flying techniques. We will be tasking XC flights on a daily basis of between 25-100K depending upon conditions. All participants will be required to have 2m radios and reserve as well as some type of hydration pack and repatriation insurance.

Thermalling high above take-off at St Andre les Aples in Haute Provence

Where

St Andre les Alpes is situated in the heart of the Alpes de Haute Provence approximately 90 minutes north of Nice. The entire area enjoys a mediterranean climate normally unaffected by the more changeable conditions found in the main Alpine areas. The wind direction is normally S or SW and the site can take from E through S to NW. St Andre is the start point for a number of classic flights ranging in distance from 100k out and returns to 50k triangles. During most evenings, restitution thermals give mellow thermalling conditions when it is possible to cover 20k plus in the most gentle of air, landing back at the huge landing area at St Andre. During the day conditions are normally excellent with large thermals and a frequent cloudbase over 4000m.

Accommodation

We will be using the excellent campsite at L'Issole again this year, set within easy walking distance of the town centre, this quiet family run campsite has full facilities. We will be providing camping accommodation for course participants (tents provided if reqired) but you will need to have your own sleeping bags. All camping fees are included but if you wish to bring your own vehicle onto the site they may make a small charge. (There is plenty of free parking just next to the camping area). The town of St Andre has a good choice of bars and restaurants and a lively nightlife which frequently includes groups and other musical acts in the main square arranged by the town for the many tourists who visit during the summer months. All in all the evening entertainment is excellent.

Transportation

We will provide all necessary transportation during your stay with us at St Andre - this includes uplift to launch points and retrieves after your flights as required. Frequently we take advantage of the excellent evening conditions which make a nice end to the days flying.

Getting there

You can fly to Nice with carriers such as Easyjet, Virgin Express, Ryanair and BA who offer low cost flights - then take the small scenic railway which runs up to St Andre (less than 2 hours). Flights can be from as little as £49.00 but you should contact them directly for full details. You should plan to arrive in Nice by mid afternoon on the 17th June as the last connection to St Andre departs Nice at 1700. Similarly your departing flight should leave France lunch time or later to allow time for you to get back to Nice. If you want to travel out by car, St Andre is about12 hours from the channel ports. We will provide full joining instructions on receipt of your booking.

Instruction

Two BHPA Senior instructors with years of XC and Alpine flying experience will be on site to instruct, advise and generally assist you to get the most out of your course.

Cost

6 Day thermalling XC Masterclass - £320.00 including accommodation (tents)

All hill and retrieve transportation

Tents (if required) and camping fees

Instruction and general assistance

Our famous end of course BBQ with wine

Not Included

Transportation to and from St Andre les Alpes

Food

Repatriation insurance (required)

Email us now - or Telephone NOW to confirm your place