Praia da Gralha
Parakite and paragliding site

Flying conditions

The main directions used for flying Parakite and paragliders at Praia da Gralha are West (W) and North-West (NW).

However, the direction given in a weather forecast is not enough to determine whether conditions are good for flying.

Strength, gusts, cross component, the quality of the flow and the way the wind interacts with the cliff all have to be assessed together.

How much wind is needed?

We do not give a minimum or maximum wind figure, because there is no figure that can be safely applied to every pilot and every piece of equipment.

The strength required depends on several factors, including:

• discipline — Parakite or paragliding
• the model and characteristics of the wing
• wing size
• all-up weight
• the pilot’s experience
• wind direction
• gusts and the quality of the flow
• the conditions present on site

Two people at the same site with the same wind speed may need different equipment.

The differences between Parakite and paragliding, and between models, sizes and wing loadings, can significantly change what conditions are appropriate for each pilot.

Take-off

Take-off is from the top of the cliff, on high ground above Praia da Gralha.

Access is particularly straightforward: the take-off area is about 1 minute on foot from the car park.

The layout of the site makes it possible to return to the take-off area to land when conditions allow.

Flying Parakite and paragliders at Praia da Gralha

The cliff at Praia da Gralha makes it possible to use the dynamic lift created when the wind meets the coastal terrain.

When conditions are suitable, coastal soaring along the cliff is possible with Parakite and paragliders.

The shape of the terrain and the different orientations along the coast mean that wind behaviour can vary within the site itself.

Flying north towards Praia do Salgado

When conditions along the coast are suitable, the flight can be extended north from Praia da Gralha to Praia do Salgado.

That route makes it possible to keep soaring along the coast beyond the main area at Gralha.

Whether the transition can be made depends on the conditions at the time and on the capability of the pilot and the equipment being used.

Landing

Whenever possible, landing is back on top of the cliff, by top-landing.

When returning to the take-off area is not possible, the sand at Praia da Gralha can be used as an alternative.

Using the beach has to take into account the space available, the tide, the state of the sea and the presence of people.

The beach and the cliffs

Praia da Gralha lies next to São Martinho do Porto, but it is very different from the town’s well-known bay.

It is a beach open to the Atlantic, with a long stretch of sand framed by cliffs and a relatively natural coastal setting.

The beach is also used for recreational fishing, walking and other activities linked to the sea.

A shared space

Praia da Gralha is used by Parakite and paragliding pilots, fishermen, walkers and others.

When several pilots share the same flying area, the differences in speed and behaviour between types and sizes of wing have to be taken into account.

The presence of people on the sand must also be considered whenever the beach has to be used for landing.

Respect for the site

The cliffs and the coastal environment at Praia da Gralha are part of a natural landscape that should be preserved.

Parakite and paragliding should be practised so as to minimise the impact on the site, to respect the existing accesses, and to avoid behaviour that could damage the terrain or create conflict with other users.

Respecting the site helps keep it open to everyone.