Europe – Turkey

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Babadag is a mountain in southwestern Turkey, near the town of Oludeniz. It is one of the most popular sites for hang gliding and paragliding in the world, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains. Babadag has four launch sites at different altitudes and orientations, allowing for flights in various wind and weather conditions. The landing area is on the beach of Oludeniz, where you can enjoy the sun and the sea after your flight.

Launch Sites

1700 m – This is the highest launch site on Babadag, located at an elevation of 1700 meters above sea level. It faces south and southwest, and is suitable for flights in the morning and afternoon. The launch site has a large wooden platform and a grassy slope. The view from here is breathtaking, as you can see the whole Oludeniz bay and the islands beyond. The flight time from here to the landing area is about 25 minutes, depending on the thermals and your flying style.
1800 m – This is another high launch site on Babadag, located at an elevation of 1800 meters above sea level. It faces north and northeast, and is suitable for flights in the afternoon and evening. The launch site has a gravel road and a grassy slope. The view from here is also amazing, as you can see the mountains and valleys behind Babadag. The flight time from here to the landing area is about 20 minutes, depending on the wind and your flying style.
1200 m – This is a lower launch site on Babadag, located at an elevation of 1200 meters above sea level. It faces west and northwest, and is suitable for flights in the afternoon and evening. The launch site has a dirt road and a grassy slope. The view from here is still impressive, as you can see the Oludeniz bay and the town below. The flight time from here to the landing area is about 15 minutes, depending on the wind and your flying style.
800 m – This is the lowest launch site on Babadag, located at an elevation of 800 meters above sea level. It faces south and southeast, and is suitable for flights in the morning and afternoon. The launch site has a dirt road and a grassy slope. The view from here is less spectacular than from the higher launch sites, but still enjoyable. The flight time from here to the landing area is about 10 minutes, depending on the wind and your flying style.

Landing Area

The landing area for hang gliding and paragliding on Babadag is on the beach of Oludeniz, near the main promenade. It is a large sandy area with a windsock and a sign that says “Paragliding Landing Zone”. The landing area is shared with other beach activities, so you need to be careful not to land on people or objects. The landing area is also close to many hotels, restaurants, shops and bars, where you can relax after your flight.

Flying Conditions and Restrictions

Babadag is known for its stable and favorable flying conditions throughout the year. The wind is usually light and consistent, and the thermals are strong and reliable. The best time to fly is between April and October, when the weather is warm and sunny. The average flight duration is about 20 minutes, but it can be longer if you catch good thermals. The maximum altitude you can reach is about 3000 meters, depending on the air traffic and the air space regulations.

There are some restrictions and rules that you need to follow when flying on Babadag. These include:

You need to have a valid hang gliding or paragliding license and insurance to fly on Babadag. You also need to register with the local authorities and pay a small fee before flying.
You need to follow the instructions of the launch site managers and the air traffic controllers. They will tell you when and where to take off and land, and how to avoid collisions with other pilots and aircrafts.
You need to respect the nature and the environment of Babadag. Do not litter, make noise, or disturb the wildlife. Babadag is a protected area and a natural park, so you need to be careful not to damage it.
You need to respect the culture and the people of Oludeniz. Do not fly over or land on private properties, religious sites, or military zones. Do not offend or harass the locals or other tourists. Be friendly and polite, and enjoy the hospitality of Oludeniz.

Best Times to Fly and Visit

The best time to fly and visit Babadag and Oludeniz is between April and October, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the flying conditions are optimal. You can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains, and experience the thrill of flying from a high altitude to a low altitude. You can also explore the other attractions of Oludeniz, such as the Blue Lagoon, the Butterfly Valley, the Ghost Town of Kayakoy, and the Lycian Way.

More Information

If you want to learn more about Babadag and Oludeniz, you can visit the following websites or contact the following organizations:

Babadag Cable Car – This is the official website of the cable car that takes you from Oludeniz to the top of Babadag. You can find information about the prices, schedules, facilities, and safety measures of the cable car. You can also book your tickets online or by phone.
Oludeniz Paragliding – This is one of the leading paragliding companies in Oludeniz, offering tandem flights with experienced pilots and instructors. You can find information about the prices, packages, services, and safety standards of the company. You can also book your flights online or by phone.
Oludeniz Tourism Development Cooperative – This is a cooperative of local businesses and organizations that promote tourism and development in Oludeniz. You can find information about the history, culture, nature, and activities of Oludeniz. You can also contact them for any questions or suggestions.
Fethiye Tourism Association – This is an association of tourism professionals and stakeholders that represent Fethiye and its surroundings. You can find information about the attractions, events, festivals, and services of Fethiye. You can also contact them for any inquiries or complaints.

You can also follow these social media accounts for updates and news about Babadag and Oludeniz: