European DZs 2016

[RMK 3]

I’ve been out of jumping for the past two years and getting back into it, so my DZ knowledge is a little rusty. Planning some trips now and seeking some updated advice on DZs.

I jumped many years at Empuriabrava, but am aware it’s not the DZ it used to be. I haven’t tried Skydive Spain, Madrid or Lillo. Also looking at Gap-Tallard, France.

I’ll be mostly wingsuit or freeflying. Additional to the skydiving, I want some scenery, good food and infrastructure. I’m not a bunkhouse/tent guy, so also want a comfortable hotel nearby. Ease of arrival via a London flight is also a key factor.

Many of the reviews/threads are 10yrs out-of-date.
What are considered the best European DZs today?

"Pain is the best instructor, but no one wants to attend his classes"

[TommyBotten 0]

I'd cast my vote for Skydive Algarve, Skytime in Castellon or Dropzone Denmark in Herning Denmark. Skydive Spain is also quite nice, but the facilities are somewhat lacking.

[RMK 3]

Yes, I was looking at Skydive Algarve. It looks to be a good choice for a trip with wife and kids.

Whereas as DZ like Skydive Spain (Seville) looks good from the jumping aspect, but like a lot of dropzones is in the middle of nowhere - so I could only go on my own or with jumping friends.

"Pain is the best instructor, but no one wants to attend his classes"

[RichyR 0]

Algarve's great. 2x Dorniers to 14k in 10mins.

Fly out over the beach/sea.

Great beach/town at Alvor 5min drive away

They have 3x 3week boogies a year which are an even better time to visit.

[Brutus 1]

As a local jumper I know quite well the DZs you have listed below.

Lillo: it has changed a lot in the last 2 years.
Pros:New facilities, nice grass landing area (which is not very common in DZs in the center of Spain) really good vibe
Cons: one plane (pilatus Porter), activitiy is not guaranteed during weekdays, no activities around apart from skydiving

Skydive Spain (Seville)
Pros: activity almost guaranteed any day of the week, 15000 feet jumps, quick planes (2 Dornier G-92), good vibe, lot of funjumpers from northern Europe, cheap ticket jumps
Cons: really need a car to get to the DZ, old facilities

Skytime Castellon:
Pros: really close to the beach, very good vibe, lot of funjumpers, amazing views in every jump, could almost arrive walking or by bus to the DZ, a lot to do apart from skydiving (sightseeing, chilling on the beach, watersports)
Cons: does not operate during most week days, one plane (pilatus Porter)

[JackJ 0]

A load of brits are going to Castellon in October for a week, an end of season boogie so the porter will be running all week.

Flights are currently £59+baggage direct to Castellon from Stansted.

We'll also be mostly wingsuiting, tracking and freeflying...you're more than welcome to come along.

Douchebags at the Beach - part dos

[RMK 3]

Thanks for the info above; Castellon looks good.

Brutus, the updated brief on each was exactly what I was looking for.

"Pain is the best instructor, but no one wants to attend his classes"

[Brutus 1]

You are welcome.

BTW I was able to jump with the "Douchebags team" at Castellon.
Awesome flyers, but also awesome people

[JackJ 0]

Here's the video from that trip, featuring some great footage from Brutus too!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YKXeeOdAwPw


Next one will be even better