Windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, stand-up paddling, canoeing, fishing, swimming, and bathing - Silvaplana is characterized by wind and water, is the water sports resort par excellence in the Engadin, and is famous worldwide for it. Action fans put themselves in the spotlight here, in one of the highest windsurfing spots in Europe. The climax of the season is in mid-August, when the Vanora Engadinwind by Dakine takes place and the world's elite in kite- and windsurfing cavort on and off the water. So don't be surprised if you're in the Engadin in August and see the area around the Silvaplana campsite threatening to burst at the seams. But don't be shy - dive into the scene!
The "kite meadow," where the colorful kites are lined up and waiting for their turn, is located directly in front of the Mulets Sports Center in Silvaplana. Here, a beach feeling emerges in the midst of an impressive mountain world. Something that only 'Silvaplaya,' as Silvaplana is therefore fondly called, can offer you. They invented it, so to speak, because the kitesurfing school in Silvaplana was the first in Switzerland and one of the first worldwide. In 1994, when the sport didn't even have a real name, the Kitesailing School was opened in the Engadin.
About the history of Swiss Kitesurf | Kiteschool & Snowkiteschool Silvaplana since 1993 | Kitesailing
From the end of May until the beginning of October, the thermal south-westerly wind - better known as the Maloja wind - attracts water sports enthusiasts onto the water from midday onwards. At Swiss Kitesurf you will find everything you need for your session. Besides a store and rental equipment, they offer courses for adults and children of all levels. The local professionals know what is important when kiting in Silvaplana.
Most important is the wind. Southwest and south winds are best. With north and east winds, it is often gusty and to be enjoyed with caution. Basically south winds, a flat pressure distribution, and nice weather are good conditions.
With wind forces of 3 to 6 Beaufort over the water and that in an alpine landscape. Here mountains meet water and beach, and the best windsurfers in the world meet those who dare their first attempts. There is an uncomplicated spirit on the beach of Silvaplana, the surf mecca of the Alps. The cozy restaurant "Pappaloù" fits in here perfectly - regardless of whether you dare to dance with the waves or simply enjoy watching the colorful activities - you can easily spend an entire day here.
The restaurant is run by Steve Missiaen, son of the windsurfing pioneer in the Engadin Arnoud 'Noldi' Missiaen, who was one of the best European windsurfers in the 1980s. The constant Maloja wind and the alpine mountains of the Engadin fascinated the Belgian. So he settled down in the valley and founded the windsurfing school "Windsurfing Silvaplana" more than 30 years ago, which is managed today by his daughter Sarah.
A wing without lines and a wing mounted under the board are the basic techniques for wind foiling. Have you heard about it? Wing foiling is the newest water sport trend. It involves holding a wing in your hand, which helps you gain buoyancy with the help of the wind. A wing is mounted under the surfboard, which rises out of the water at a certain speed until the surfboard floats above the water. It looks fascinating and provides a whole new surfing experience.
There are so many beautiful ways to start the day. And stand-up paddling is at the top of the list. When Lake Silvaplana is calm early in the morning and the mountains are reflected in the water, stand-up paddling combines beauty with pleasure. It also works out the back muscles, shoulders, and arms and encourages balance. And it is good for the soul!
Equipment can be rented at the windsurfing school from 08.00 am.