Snowkite Safari, Italy

This unique and exclusive ZK trip epitomizes the real attraction of snowkiting; A three day adventure in the spectacular backcountry of the Formazza Valley which lies between the Fruawasserfall and the canyons of Casse in Northern Italy.

The spot is exceptionally remote and your only mode of transport when you get there are skidoos, kites and skis or snowboards. We run Long weekends and have different trips for beginners and intermediate / advanced riders.

Settle into the cosy ‘Refuge Maria Luisa’ put your feet up and enjoy some Italian hospitality that involves great food and wine around the fire.. naturally.

THE SNOWKITING
THE WIND
THE ACCOMODATION
OFF THE SNOW / OTHER ACTIVITIES
COURSES
THE PRICE
THE DATES
GETTING THERE

THE SNOWKITING

Snowkiting here is a very humbling experience. The landscape is perfect for it. More undulating that dramatic it allows snowkiters to explore unhindered across the backcountry for miles and any direction. Some of the peaks are impressive and there are plenty of opportunities to seek out spots to make large downwind ascents to then free ski / board down.

All the equipment will be transported to the spot with a "skidoo" to the "Rifugio". You will need snow shoes (supplied) to get around this place it’s the real deal!

We have two trips organised for different standards. The beginner week will involve 3 days (8 hours) of snow kite lessons following an IKO syllabus.

The intermediate/advanced trip involves 3 days of touring and guiding in search of the best the local backcountry can offer.

THE WIND

Due to the altitude of Maria Luisa there is very consistent wind. The best winds are north- and south winds. These are typical over the winter months. It’s a good idea to have a good range of kites because the wind strengths can vary. We can provide the equipment or bring your own.

ACCOMODATION

The rufuge Maria Luisa is a basic but cosy mountain hide away. You will be well looked after with appetising wholesome meals and even a bar perfect for sharing your snowkiting stories.

The refuge is located in the Upper Maria Luisa Formazza Valley at 2157 meters. It is the ideal location to admire the beauty of the mountain.

The rooms vary. There are dorm rooms and also private doubles, triples etc. Please specify when you enquire.

OFF THE SNOW / OTHER ACTIVITIES

Paragliding, hiking and ski-touring. (spk to us if you are interested) Take your pick. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the total seclusion from anything!

COURSES

Snowkiting Level 1

Level 1A

Carry and Set-up lines and kite
Determine the wind direction and upwind and downwind (windward, leeward)
Fly a small kite (inflatable, stunt kite, foil…) on the wind window edge and maintain it close to the ground
Know how to kill the power of the kite in case of problem by releasing the bar. Be aware that the kite leash must be worn at all times, before kite launching and until landing

Level 1B

Be aware of the area where the kite can fall downwind of the pilot.
Recover the kite
Position the kite on request from 9 to 3 o’clock on the wind window edge
Launch a kite and choose the right angle to the wind (assisted).
Fly the kite in the power area without crashing it
Twist and untwist the lines while the kite flies
Recover a kite and secure it on land
Land a kite with the help of an assistant

Level 1C

Fly a kite hooked to the harness
Fly hooked to the harness with one hand
Activate the harness release system or quick release located on a leader line

Level 1D

Launch a kite alone
Relaunch a kite

Level 1E

Create a constant power using the power zone or half the power zone
Identify potential wind obstacles creating lift or down draft and be able to define the wind direction. Understand that practicing near obstacles is dangerous

Intermediate Snowkiter Program

Start feeling like a snowkiter!

Now you will make use of all that flying knowledge you gained in Level 1, keep your helmet on because in this level will be getting up on your board or skis for your first ride! During this chapter of training you will improve your kiting skills, experience more power, and learn how to use your harness and the kite de-power systems.

Snowkiter Level 2

Level 2F

Define if the practice area is safe for practice
Set up and check the equipment alone (kite, line, control bar)

Level 2G

Fly a kite in sitting position. Be able to keep your legs in front of you
Falling simulation and getting in starting position again
Relaunch a kite with board or skis
Without board, discover the power needed to be pulled on your feet from a sitting position

Level 2H

Know the start theory: board/skis and body positioning, kite piloting
Start from a sitting position and ride while moving the kite up and down
Gain speed from a standing position

Level 2I

Set up a 4 line kite alone and check that it is properly done
Fly a 4 line kite
Activate the safety systems of a 4 line bar (power loop, leash)
Adjust a 4 line kite while using the power loop
Adjust the trim system of a 4 line kite to avoid it flying backward or adjust the power

Independent Snowkiter

Congratulations on reaching the independent level where all your snowkiting dreams come to reality !

When you finish training you will be able to ride upwind, change direction, manage your practice area and choose your equipment, and if the weather permits you will even take your first jump!

Snowkiter Level 3