Summer is the golden season for thermal‑driven paragliding. While famous hotspots like Interlaken or Torrey Pines can feel packed, there are hidden gems where the air is smooth, the thermals are reliable, and the sky stays mostly to yourself. Below are six of the best‑kept‑secret locations that combine strong, predictable lift with low traffic---perfect for pilots who crave solitude as much as altitude.
1. Algar Valley, Portugal
Why it's uncrowded -- The Algarve's coastline draws beach‑goers, not mass‑pilots. The small village of Algar de Baixo serves as the launch hub, and the valley's steep canyon walls funnel thermals without attracting big‑tourist crowds.
Thermal profile -- From late May through August, sea‑breeze fronts collide with inland heat, creating a well‑defined "thermal belt" that climbs 1,200--1,500 m AGL. The ridge on the western side produces consistent lift even on days with moderate cloud cover.
What to expect -- Glide across golden cliffs, over sapphire waters, and finish in the historic town of Silves. The scenery shifts dramatically as you turn from coastline to rolling olive groves.
Practical tips
- Fly from the Algarzeira launch site (≈300 m ASL).
- Bring a lightweight harness; the route involves a long, gentle ridge‑line sail.
- Summer evenings can bring sudden sea‑breeze shifts---plan your landing before 5 pm.
2. Călugăreni Plateau, Romania
Why it's uncrowded -- Nestled in the Carpathian foothills, Călugăreni remains a local favorite, largely unknown to the broader European paragliding community. The plateau's remote access (a dirt road off a small village) keeps the airspace clear.
Thermal profile -- July and August deliver strong, dry thermals that rise from the sun‑heated limestone fields. Thermals often reach heights of 2,000 m with a gentle breeze from the north, creating long, uninterrupted soaring windows.
What to expect -- Soar over dense beech forests, patchwork farms, and historic monasteries perched on hilltops. The plateau's open landscape lets you travel several kilometers without needing to hunt for new lift.
Practical tips
- Launch from the Râul Doamnei ridge (≈650 m ASL).
- A GPS logger helps track the subtle ridge‑line thermals that form by late afternoon.
- Carry a spare map---cell reception is spotty on the plateau.
3. St. George's Peak, New Zealand (South Island)
Why it's uncrowded -- While Queenstown's Skyline is famous, the neighboring St. George's Peak launch is a quiet alternative that sees only a handful of pilots each summer weekend.
Thermal profile -- Mid‑December through February, the Southern Alps generate strong, dry thermals that ride the leeward side of the peak. Expect lift rates of 2--3 m/s, with cloud base usually above 5,000 ft, keeping you well clear of turbulence.
What to expect -- The flight path sweeps over crystal‑clear lakes, limestone cliffs, and untouched alpine valleys. Landings can be made at the Tekapo airstrip, which provides easy road access for a post‑flight drink.
Practical tips
- Use the Southwest Ridge launch (≈1,100 m ASL).
- Dress for rapid temperature changes---sunny thermals can be followed by sudden alpine chill.
- Check the local wind forecast; the "Föhn" effect can create strong downdrafts in the afternoon.
4. Laukininkai Plateau, Lithuania
Why it's uncrowded -- This modest plateau in western Lithuania is primarily a bird‑watching sanctuary, so pilots are few and far between. Its low‑key reputation keeps traffic light even at peak summer.
Thermal profile -- From late June to early September, the patchy farmland and peat bogs generate stable, dry thermals that rise steadily to 1,200 m. The prevailing westerly wind is usually mild, offering smooth cross‑country opportunities.
What to expect -- Glide over glimmering lakes, ancient oak groves, and the historic town of Klaipėda on the Baltic coast. The route is ideal for photographers: sunrise over the misty wetlands is spectacular.
Practical tips
- Launch from the Eutropius hill (≈210 m ASL).
- A small, lightweight glider (30 m²) is preferable for the modest lift.
- Respect the wildlife---avoid flying directly over nesting areas during early morning hours.
5. Vernazza Cliffs, Cinque Terre, Italy
Why it's uncrowded -- While Cinque Terre draws tourists, the cliff‑side launch at Vernazza is tucked away from the main promenade. Only a few local pilots use this spot, especially during the heat of summer when beach crowds dominate the lower town.
Thermal profile -- Late June through August offers strong Mediterranean thermals that develop over the steep limestone cliffs. The sea‑breeze pushes lift upward, producing reliable updrafts of 1.5--2 m/s that last for 15--20 minutes.
What to expect -- Soar over terraced vineyards, turquoise sea lanes, and the iconic pastel villages perched on the cliffs. A spectacular sunset landing can be arranged on the beach at Monterosso, just a short glide away.
Practical tips
- Launch from the Cala di Sotto platform (≈400 m ASL).
- Bring a wind‑shield hood; salty sea spray can be intense near the cliffs.
- Early morning launches avoid the strongest afternoon gusts that can push the thermal back inland.
6. Toubkal National Park, Morocco
Why it's uncrowded -- The Atlas Mountains see few paragliders due to the logistical effort required to reach the launch zone. The resulting low traffic makes for a pristine soaring experience.
Thermal profile -- July and August deliver powerful, dry thermals that rise above the high desert plateau. Lift rates frequently exceed 3 m/s, with a cloud base around 6,000 ft, giving you plenty of altitude to explore.
What to expect -- Cross the dramatic high‑altitude valleys, sail over traditional Berber villages, and enjoy views of snow‑capped peaks against a deep blue sky. Landings can be arranged at the Imlil base camp, where local guides provide excellent hospitality.
Practical tips
- Launch from the Aït Melloul ridge (≈2,150 m ASL).
- Acclimatize to altitude before the flight; the thin air can affect performance.
- Carry ample water and sun protection---temperature swings from hot daylight to cool evenings are steep.
How to Choose the Right Spot for Your Summer Soar
| Factor | Ideal Destination | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic level | Laukininkai Plateau, Călugăreni Plateau | Minimal pilots → uninterrupted lift |
| Thermal strength | Toubkal National Park, St. George's Peak | Strong, consistent updrafts for high‑altitude cross‑country |
| Scenery | Vernazza Cliffs, Algar Valley | Dramatic coastlines and historic villages |
| Accessibility | Algar Valley, Vernazza Cliffs | Short drive from major towns, good amenities |
| Season length | Călugăreni Plateau, Toubkal National Park | Long warm periods with stable thermals |
Pick the location that aligns with your skill level, travel budget, and the type of experience you crave---whether it's quiet solitude over rolling hills or a dramatic coastal glide with a splash of culture.
Final Thoughts
Uncrowded thermal soaring isn't about chasing the most famous launch sites; it's about seeking out the quiet corners where the atmosphere does the work and you get to dance with the wind in peace. These six destinations prove that, even in the height of summer, you can find open skies, reliable lift, and breathtaking landscapes without fighting for space in the thermals. Pack your gear, respect the local environment, and let the thermal currents carry you to new heights of serenity.
Happy flying! 🚀🪂