Local Flying :: Sospel

:: Introduction

Sospel is 40km (30 minutes) NE of Nice, or 15 minutes from Menton. It lies in the heart of the Bévera valley, protected by a cirque of mountains which surround it. It is very close to both the borders of the Mercantour National park, and of Italy. You are not allowed to fly in the National park itself (unless you are more than 1000m above the ground!), and this rule is taken very seriously by park wardens.

The Lavina launch is good for beginners, with its South-Easterly orientation facilitating morning flights, and the vast grassy land below take-off allowing for easy landings. Later in the morning, as the thermals get stronger, it becomes a good XC site too.

The Agaisen launch, which faces SW, is perfect for going XC from. The locals call it “The Lift”, for its large, regular thermals, and people have flown to Saint-Andre from here (appx 75km).

The views from on high are amazing: Mont Mangiabo to the north, Italy to the east and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. On a clear day you can see the point of Saint Tropez to the west.

Further information and local advice can be found from the Club’s HQ at the Bar du Marché (ask for Pierre, the club’s president, or look on the notice boards).

:: Access

Sospel is most easily reached from the Menton exit of the A8 along the D2566, but you could also take the RD2204 from Nice.

Take-offs

1. Mt Agaisen: Once in Sospel, take the road signposted to the college. A left turning from this road climbs to Mont Agaisen. The road is tarmaced or concreted all the way to the top, and is suitable for all vehicles.

2. Tête de la Lavina: Take the D2204from Sospel towards Col de Braus. Here, join a forest track to the south which takes you up Tête de la Lavina.

3. Mont Gros (or Monte Grosso): The track from the Agaisen launch continues to wind its way up Mont Gros.

Landings

1. Le Pigeonnier: From Sospel, take the road towards Nice as far as the Mairie. From the square, turn left past the Monument. Park in front of the Co-operative. The footpath to the landing field is 400m away.

2. La Friguiera: La Friguiera is a gîte d’Etape, and is on the west side of Sospel. The footpath is sign-posted from the village.

:: Maps