Kozákov Paragliding Launch Site is a renowned flying terrain situated on the northern border of Bohemian Paradise, offering excellent conditions for paragliding. It's a significant tourist spot, well-known among paragliding pilots, hikers, and cyclists, providing panoramic views of the region.
☀️ Paragliding from 744m altitude with southern (190°) and western (260°) launch directions, ideal wind speed 2-5 m/s. It features a large, maintained grassy area suitable for at least 20 paraglides.
🏄♀️ Paragliding courses (introductory, pilot, license), tandem flights (instructional or gift vouchers), equipment rental, and a shop are available at Paragliding Center Kozákov.
👨👩👧👦 Tandem flights are accessible for anyone. The peak is easily accessible by asphalt road and car.
✈️ Nearby attractions include the 24m high Kozákov View Tower, Votrubcův lom (precious stones), numerous castles (Trosky, Frýdštejn, Hrubá skála, Hrubý Rohozec, Valdštejn), Sychrov chateau, Boskovské jeskyně, Suché skály, Panteon, Sedmihorky spa, Košťálov bathing pool, Zlatá stezka Českého Ráje, and Dlaskův statek skanzen.
⚠️ Southwest flow can cause turbulences at the west 260° start, suitable only for more experienced pilots. The southern 190° start is slightly difficult due to its mild slope, and on southeast flow, it's only for experienced pilots due to potential turbulences. The ski-tow start is not recommended due to adult trees and limited space for forced landing.
🚫 While there are no general flying restrictions, pilots are advised to be careful when transitioning from sloping to thermic flying. Operational rules may be posted at the launch site.
🎟️ Entry fees (Permits):
LAA member: 200 CZK/year (approx. 7 Euro)
Others: 400 CZK/year (approx. 13 Euro)
Daily permit: 30 CZK/1 Euro
🚿 Toilets: Available near the launch site (at Riegrova chata) and at Penzion pod Kozákovem (for guests).
🏕️ Accommodation options: Penzion pod Kozákovem (500m from start, rooms with WC, shower, TV, kitchen; 150 CZK/5 Euro per night/person, breakfast available; free sleeping in garden). Touristic challet Riegrova at Kozákov (7 rooms with 2-4 beds, private social equipment, half/full boarding; possibility of sleeping in a tent right at the starting area).
🍽️ Food and dining options: Restaurant and kiosk at Riegrova chata, with outdoor seating and grilling. "U Coufalů" restaurant is also nearby.
🚗 Driving directions or parking info: An asphalt road leads directly to the peak of Kozákov and Riegrova chata. From the Turnov to Semily road, take the turning uphill in Lestkov village towards Kozákov. A large parking area is located in front of Riegrova chata, with the launch site approximately 50m away. Paragliding Center Kozákov is in Komárov village.
🤝 Operating organization or contact info: The site is managed by Letecký spolek Kozákov (Kozákov Aviation Club). Paragliding courses are offered by a school led by Miroslav Stěhula, with instructors qualified by the Letecká amatérská asociace (LAA ČR).