Walensee
Walenstadt, Switzerland
Walensee is a narrow, dramatic lake between the cantons of St. Gallen and Glarus, hemmed in by sheer limestone cliffs. A valley-wind from the west reaches 5 Bft on the best days, most reliably in June and July. Kiting is only possible from a boat — on the shore, wing and windsurf dominate.
Best months: May, June, July, August, September
Wind directions: SW, W, NW
Water: Flat, Chop
Bottom: Pebbles, Rock
Sports: Wingfoil, Windsurf
Local tips
Launch from Walenstadt strand on the right (east) bank. W wind is most consistent June–July and builds through the afternoon. The steep terrain offers little room to manoeuvre on land — rig carefully and be aware of gusts off the cliffs.