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Vinon in southern France is a flying area that everyone should experience. Its unique location on the edge of the French Alps, its proximity to famous cross-country and wave flying areas, and its enormous potential for long flights are what make this spot so appealing to many glider pilots. In his book Next Year of Gliding, Bert Schmelzer vividly describes why southern France is among the best and most diverse gliding regions in Europe.

In February, Werner Luidolt and I headed to the Algarve, where sunshine, mild temperatures, and a spectacular coastal landscape make flying appealing even in winter. But Portugal’s south isn’t a sure thing: experience, flexibility, and a keen sense of the wind, terrain, and the many small weather windows along the coast are crucial. This report shows why the Algarve can be a fascinating winter destination for advanced pilots—with soaring off cliffs, spontaneous spot changes, and impressive flying moments over the Atlantic.