The 5 best kitesurfing destinations in Europe

For kitesurfers, Europe and in particular the countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea and part of the Atlantic are a true paradise. Indeed, there are many kite spots in Europe that take advantage of constant winds and local breezes with excellent annual statistics. Not to mention the beautiful natural scenery close to the coast and on the islands that make sessions in the water even more impressive. In short, ideal places to make the most of the performance of our kitesurfing equipment.

Among the many kite-friendly destinations in this guide, we have selected the five best kite spots in Europe that offer excellent conditions in terms of wind frequency and quality. It is no coincidence that these spots are frequented all year round by enthusiasts, but also by pro riders who train here and often take part in international competitions.

Tarifa, the kitesurfing capital of Europe

Where to kitesurf in Europe. In Spain, along the Costa de la Luz, near the Strait of Gibraltar where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic, lies Tarifa, which, thanks to its approximately 300 days of wind per year and its mild temperatures, is rightly one of Europe's kiteboarding capitals. A popular spot for beginners who come here to learn the discipline in the about 40 schools present, but also for experienced riders who take advantage of the often radical conditions. The best beaches are Los Lances, the main spot, then Conil, El Palmar and Canos de Meca. Slightly further from the city centre, but just as popular, are Playa de Valdevaqueros and the splendid Playa Punta Paloma from which, on clear days, the Moroccan sand dunes can be seen.

The best kite spots in Europe. There are two winds in Tarifa, which blow and accelerate right through the Strait of Gibraltar. The most frequent is the westerly wind, or Ponente, which blows around 2-5 Beaufort, comes from the west and brings fresh air from the sea. The other is the eastern wind, or Levante, which is stronger and more turbulent and often reaches 8-9 Beaufort. Finally, Tarifa's nightlife is also famous, with bars, restaurants and beach clubs.

Praia de Guincho, a paradise for wavers

West of Lisbon, Portugal, slightly north of the mouth of the Tagus River on the Costa Prata, lies Praia de Guincho, a beach considered a real gem by European kiters who love waves and radical conditions. It is about 750 metres long, with sand dunes towering over the sea and surrounded by cliffs to the east and west. A few isolated, clearly visible rocks are also present in the centre. Also because of this, but especially because of the wind that often blows strong and gusty, it is considered a spot for experienced kiters to whom it always gives great thrills.

The best kite spots in Europe. The best winds are those blowing from the North, North-West and West, mainly in the period from April to September with peaks in July and August. Thanks to the Sintra mountains to the north-east, the cold sea and the large sandy area, there are also excellent local thermal breezes in good weather. The wind generally starts at midday and becomes stronger towards the evening. In the morning and when there is no wind, the spot belongs completely to surfers.

Leucate, French land of raging Mistral and speed races

Kitesurfing Europe. In the south of France, just a stone's throw from the famous Côte d'Azur, lies Leucate, a seaside village that, in addition to its striking scenery of salt marshes, vineyards, olive groves and sheer cliffs, has been one of the best spots for kiters and windsurfers for over 30 years.
The credit for this success goes to the Mistral, a strong, cold and often impetuous north-westerly wind that descends directly from the Pyrenees on this stretch of coast. But there is also the Tramontana, equally solid and icy. Statistics speak of more than 300 wind days a year. Generally, the wind blows between 25 and 30 knots with a side-shore/side-on direction, while in the case of Tramontana it is side-off and very gusty.

Where to kitesurf in Europe. Testifying to the spot's fame is a competition held every year in April on the beach at La Franqui. This is the famous Mondial au vent , an event dedicated to speed-sailing enthusiasts that constitutes a stage of the PKRA Speed World Circuit and attracts around 150,000 people each year.

Stagnone, the world's unique flatwater lagoon

The best kite spots in Europe. Located on the extreme tip of the west coast of Sicily (Italy), the Stagnone Lagoon is a huge stretch of sea sheltered by a series of small green islands and surrounded by old salt pans and windmills that form a protected nature reserve. Its unique shape, shallow waters with water that is always flat to the waist and sustained, constant winds that blow all year round make it one of the most popular spots for kiters from all over Europe and beyond. It is also here that the main Italian and European competitions of disciplines such as Freestyle and Big Air are held, and the lagoon is also an extraordinary natural training ground for international pro riders.

Kitesurfing Europe. The main winds, which blow on an average of 300 days a year, are the Mistral (North West), which lasts from 1 to 3 days and also takes advantage of the thermal breeze system (3 to 5 knots more on the forecast) and the Scirocco (South East), which on the best days can reach up to 35-40 knots. On the spot for most of the year there are around 30 schools with a varied offer of lessons for all levels, equipment rental and storage.

Pounda - Paros, the safety of the Meltemi

Where to kitesurf in Europe. Located on the west coast of the island of Paros in the Cyclades (Greece), Pounda is another top European kiteboarding spot. It is a long tongue of sand facing the Aegean Sea opposite the island of Antiparos. It thus forms a kind of natural “corridor” about a kilometre long where the Meltemi accelerates between the two islands. Another of its strengths that is highly appreciated by freestyle enthusiasts is the crystal-clear water that remains flat even in strong winds. It is no coincidence that the GKA World Tour dedicated to this discipline often stops here.

The best kite spots in Europe. The Meltemi wind blows from May to September, although peaks are recorded in July and August, when it can reach over 30 knots. It is a cool, dry wind, generally very constant with an average of 4-5 days per week. It enters side-on from the beach and is perfect for beginners and experts alike. There are also a few schools on the spot offering lessons for all levels and the possibility of hiring equipment.

Photo Credit:

Photo 1: DUOTONE