Sites
Montagne de Laragne-Chabre
Laragne-Chabre, the best known of the local sites, sits close to the junction of the
Buech and the Durance valleys, just north of Sisteron. Access is via the newly re-
built road running from the Val de Meouge, near Chateauneuf de Chabre, to the
summit. There are northerly take-offs at the eastern end of the ridge, and both north
and south take offs at the true summit.
Further improvements to the launch area are planned, with a secure system of cables
to tie into when rigging and waiting, in case of 'dust devils' which can plague the
mountain when the winds are light and variable.
Although the prevailing upper wind direction is often northerly, in light conditions,
the thermals will flow up the south side by early afternoon. There is a 'balise' on the
summit monitoring wind strength and direction. The data is accessible via radio on
the FFVL frequency, 143.9875MHz, and on the internet:
http://www.balisemeteo.com/depart.php?dept=05
Montagne d'Aspres le Longeane
Aspres le Longeane, close to the village of Aspres, 25km north of Laragne has
beautiful large, grassy launches to the South and West. Access is via a fairly rough
forest track, from the village of La Faurie on the north side of the mountain. Landing
is permitted at the glider airfield below (Le Chevalet), but strict conditions apply. See
the notice board on launch. Balise information, as above.
Montagne de Buc
Montagne de Buc, near the village of Sederon, is approximately 30km to the West of
Laragne, along the beautiful val de Meouge. The launch is west facing, and the
afternoon breeze nearly always turns west in summer, with views of Mont Ventoux.
Access is via a rocky forest track (best by 4x4) between the village of Villefranche
and the paraglding school at Mevouillon.