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The long beach of 'Cabedelo' opposite Viana do Castelo is probably North Portugal's most popular spot – and certainly one of the best. With its thermal turbo-boost, the Nortada regularly reaches 25 knots so it's often busy on the water. Cross to cross-offshore wind combined with more than 2m of W swell generates classy waves over a hard sand seabed. However, wave quality and power recedes with the tide and it tends to close out when it's big. Viana is often just a freeride area though – the water's super-flat by the large harbour wall, and in summer the waves often disappear further south too. Parking is behind the breakwater, about 400m from the water – windsurfers tend to launch further south at the campsite. There a few rocks in the water, so watch your fins.

This one’s devoted to nature’s beauty up in the mountainous interior. The magnificent Canyon du Verdon flows along a high plateau into the man-made lake of Sainte-Croix. In the local afternoon thermal, Force 5 winds create a playground in the triangle between Sainte-Croix, Bauduen and the concrete dam. In Mistral, the anemometer hits maximum with amazing consistency. Launch from the small beach north of Hotel Les Cavalets, or the picnic area on the edge of the little village of Bauduen.

Koper-Zusterna just beyond the Italian border is the most northern Balkan spot. The launch is from the left of the bay beside the surf club’s containers. The water’s rough in strong and often gusty Bora, then in summer the thermally enhanced Maestral (NW) just nudges 12-15 knots; ideal for relaxed freeriding. Izola is the better call in Bora, which blows cross-shore from the right less gusty than elsewhere out by the lighthouse. Be wary of the reef upwind as it’s claimed a few fins. In strong Bora (over 30 knots), intermediates retreat to the protected bay of Fiesa safe in the knowledge that they’ll be swept back to the beach if they get tired or break anything. Just beware of the dead wind zone at the foot of the cliffs. A couple of kilometres south-west, just over the Croatian border is Savudrija where you can rig up sheltered from Bora winds. The launch is over a wall and through a 50m lull into strong winds and nice bump-and-jump conditions. In southerly winds, windsurfers should head for Umag to find a powerful wave by the lighthouse. The launch from a small beach right onto the harbour is comparatively easy. On the southern point of Istria is northern Croatia’s most popular spot. The EFPT meet at Premantura every autumn for freestyle windsurfing competition in good Bora winds. The safest launch is at Camping Stupice, where there’s room to rig and launch kites on a small peninsula within the campsite. Southerly winds can produce nice waves by the islands offshore, where it’s best to wear boots to protect from sharp, urchin-infested rocks. Medulin is even better in southerly winds, the prime launch is at the western end of the long shingle beach. Liznjan remained a well-kept local secret for years – even weak NE accelerates to planing strengths, and strong Bora can generate a nice wave that breaks on the reef. Another good freeride venue, Ravni scores a Force 3-5 thermal on sunny afternoons. But better known for its thermal is Preluk where an offshore Force 5-6 beckons freeriders in the early morning. Just don’t linger over breakfast or you might have to swim back in as the wind drops off 1-2 hours after sunrise. Offshore Bora renders the entire steep coastline between Rijeka and Zadar useless, but not the islands within Kvarner Bay. The northernmost, Krk Island is connected to the mainland by bridge. The hills surrounding Punat strengthen a good Bora wind by a Force or two, while in Baska even light NE airflows from the mountains above Senj hit planing strengths when everywhere else has nothing. Sick jumps can be had here off decent ramps that form in strong Bora. Further south, there are two safe spots for freeriders and beginners on the Pag peninsula at Simuni and Sabunike. Both bays have sandy beaches and large shallow areas. Croatia’s most famous beach is the 'Golden Horn’ near the picturesque town of Bol on the Dalmatian island of Brac. Most summer days a 15-knot wind builds in the strait between two islands, ideal for relaxed freeride. There is a Jul/Aug kite ban on the main beach, in which case launch onto the turquoise waters from the next beach downwind of the promontory. In south-east wind try Supetar or in Bora, Povlja. Like Bol, both Viganj and Perna on the Pelješac peninsula enjoy a summer thermal that ramps up to Force 5 in the 1.5km venturi between the islands of Korčula and Pelješac. Plus there’s a picture-postcard view of Korčula Island and its historic town of the same name.

An excellent and hence popular kite spot. Low-pressure winds blow freely and consistently onto Lac d'Hourtin, as does the thermal. Pleasant parking under pines with showers and toilets rounds things off nicely. The kite zone (which should definitely be observed – the swimmers are all too quick to alert the beach patrol!) is between the harbour and Lachanau. 500m wide, the lake’s whole east bank is a protected nature reserve. The shore drops off so gradually that windsurf blasters have to wade out a long way to find fin-deep water.

A perfect combination of large standing-depth area with butter-flat water, and nice waves further out. Just be careful of the tides; that 60 to 80cm makes all the difference at low water (when it’s even too shallow to kite in the standing-depth area). Bora is better for jumping; frontside down-the-line riding’s possible in strong southerlies (which are sadly all-too-rare). Overall, a very popular spot. The drawbacks being that there's so much seaweed, and kiting is only allowed outside of high-season.

The bay in front of Alghero certainly has a split personality. During Mistral (or moderate west to southerly winds) it provides nice freeride conditions, protected by the craggy 'Capo Caccia’. Just watch out for the breakwaters, and rocks near the small island of 'Maddalenedda’. In south-south-westerly storms, Neptune turns up the heat – one of Sardinia’s biggest waves offers perfect cross-off conditions 800m offshore on a reef north of the island. Incredibly good, but sadly all too rare.

Koper-Zusterna just beyond the Italian border is the most northern Balkan spot. The launch is from the left of the bay beside the surf club’s containers. The water’s rough in strong and often gusty Bora, then in summer the thermally enhanced Maestral (NW) just nudges 12-15 knots; ideal for relaxed freeriding. Izola is the better call in Bora, which blows cross-shore from the right less gusty than elsewhere out by the lighthouse. Be wary of the reef upwind as it’s claimed a few fins. In strong Bora (over 30 knots), intermediates retreat to the protected bay of Fiesa safe in the knowledge that they’ll be swept back to the beach if they get tired or break anything. Just beware of the dead wind zone at the foot of the cliffs. A couple of kilometres south-west, just over the Croatian border is Savudrija where you can rig up sheltered from Bora winds. The launch is over a wall and through a 50m lull into strong winds and nice bump-and-jump conditions. In southerly winds, windsurfers should head for Umag to find a powerful wave by the lighthouse. The launch from a small beach right onto the harbour is comparatively easy. On the southern point of Istria is northern Croatia’s most popular spot. The EFPT meet at Premantura every autumn for freestyle windsurfing competition in good Bora winds. The safest launch is at Camping Stupice, where there’s room to rig and launch kites on a small peninsula within the campsite. Southerly winds can produce nice waves by the islands offshore, where it’s best to wear boots to protect from sharp, urchin-infested rocks. Medulin is even better in southerly winds, the prime launch is at the western end of the long shingle beach. Liznjan remained a well-kept local secret for years – even weak NE accelerates to planing strengths, and strong Bora can generate a nice wave that breaks on the reef. Another good freeride venue, Ravni scores a Force 3-5 thermal on sunny afternoons. But better known for its thermal is Preluk where an offshore Force 5-6 beckons freeriders in the early morning. Just don’t linger over breakfast or you might have to swim back in as the wind drops off 1-2 hours after sunrise. Offshore Bora renders the entire steep coastline between Rijeka and Zadar useless, but not the islands within Kvarner Bay. The northernmost, Krk Island is connected to the mainland by bridge. The hills surrounding Punat strengthen a good Bora wind by a Force or two, while in Baska even light NE airflows from the mountains above Senj hit planing strengths when everywhere else has nothing. Sick jumps can be had here off decent ramps that form in strong Bora. Further south, there are two safe spots for freeriders and beginners on the Pag peninsula at Simuni and Sabunike. Both bays have sandy beaches and large shallow areas. Croatia’s most famous beach is the 'Golden Horn’ near the picturesque town of Bol on the Dalmatian island of Brac. Most summer days a 15-knot wind builds in the strait between two islands, ideal for relaxed freeride. There is a Jul/Aug kite ban on the main beach, in which case launch onto the turquoise waters from the next beach downwind of the promontory. In south-east wind try Supetar or in Bora, Povlja. Like Bol, both Viganj and Perna on the Pelješac peninsula enjoy a summer thermal that ramps up to Force 5 in the 1.5km venturi between the islands of Korčula and Pelješac. Plus there’s a picture-postcard view of Korčula Island and its historic town of the same name.

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is most famous for perfect speed conditions off the eastern beach and in the purpose-built "French Trench" speed canal in Mistral wind. Loads of records have been set here, but it's not all speed – waves readily break to the west of the harbour in east to south-easterly winds; it also works in a westerly. If you’re lucky and the wind veers from south to northerly, head back east where you can ride waves for miles in the offshore wind.

Caorle also offers a couple of options. In Bora (cross-on from the left), launch near Madonna dell Angelo church on 'Spiaggia de Levante' (nice entry-level waves sometimes break near the church). The beach is very wide and drops off slowly into the Adriatic, offering 70m of standing-depth. In southerlies, launch in the estuary at 'Porto di Falconara' – just be careful as the sandbars are barely submerged. If you'd rather be alone, cruise over to the beach on the other side of the rivermouth. Caorle has charm; a lovely old town with narrow streets, earthy fishermen’s taverns and Venetian cafés. It gets really crowded in summer, although neither town nor beach are visited so much in winter, which is better for riding. Whenever you chooses to come, do keep an eye on your car!

The spots south of 'Cap Rhir' are only really windy in wintertime when a north-westerly sea breeze builds in the afternoon. If it's on, launch at the northernmost of the three beaches at 'Tamraght’ where the waves are usually manageable and the wind blows cross-onshore. As usual around here, only go out if you’re not getting the surfers' way.

This shallow lake is easy to get to from Bordeaux, and kiting is allowed year-round north of the harbour. Hence it gets crowded on the water, although you won’t see many windsurfers. There are a few trees on the beach, but launching from the vast standing-depth area is no problem. North-westerly is a bit gusty, whereas west to south-westerlies are steadier.

Just half an hour from the city, this spot by the Stör estuary is a godsend for the Hamburg scene. There's even a 50m standing-depth area when the tide floods up to the dyke. Otherwise just walk a little way towards the middle of the Elbe – it's no problem keeping away from the ferry channel, particularly in westerly winds. The currents mean it's not ideal for beginners though. Despite the silhouette of the Brokdorf nuclear power station on the horizon, idyllic Elbe prevails: huge ships glide past sheep grazing on green dykes. Apart from what they leave behind, it's not as mucky as other mudflat venues!

Just north of Agios Georgios, Issos Beach is a beautiful learning and freeride venue in summer north-westerlies. The breeze builds to 12-15 knots around noon – sometimes stronger, although high winds are rare. Sand dunes keep the water nice and flat, and a local windsurfing centre hires out kit. The wind shadow from those dunes isn't ideal for kites, especially as the hotel deckchairs lie in wait – but the kite spot of 'Chalikounas' is just 4km north. In winter, Issos reveals its dark side as low pressure southerlies blow nice waves into the bay and kiters ride in front of the deserted hotels.

It’s not just the shorebreak that gets underestimated here – in south-easterly Scirocco, Genoa might be the region’s most radical break. The most popular city spots are at 'Centro Surf Club’ (for both kiters und windsurfers) and 'Sturla Beach' (kiters only) further east near the football stadium.

La Maddalena is a good option for loners who find Costa Smeralda too crowded. On the plus side, this island is no less windy than 'Porto Pollo' . the problem being that the bays are narrow and the beaches are often peppered with rocks. Your best bet is 'Baia Trinitá' on the west coast. But if in doubt, just enjoy the atmosphere: crystal-clear water and white beaches framed by wind-eroded cliffs.

At just 22km long, this is the region’s smallest inland sea. The Veersedam looks similar to the Brouwersdam at first glance, but it’s much narrower (2km across) and the road runs around rather than over the water. Its entire length is paid parking, yet launching from here is rocky and slippery so most riders prefer the sandy shallows at either end of the dyke. Another popular launch is from 'De Schotsman’ campsite on the west bank, complete with coin-operated showers and a coffee shop. The wind’s generally a little weaker on the Veersemeer than at exposed coastal venues, which can be handy if it’s super-windy. Kiting is not permitted on this relatively small body of water.

Koper-Zusterna just beyond the Italian border is the most northern Balkan spot. The launch is from the left of the bay beside the surf club’s containers. The water’s rough in strong and often gusty Bora, then in summer the thermally enhanced Maestral (NW) just nudges 12-15 knots; ideal for relaxed freeriding. Izola is the better call in Bora, which blows cross-shore from the right less gusty than elsewhere out by the lighthouse. Be wary of the reef upwind as it’s claimed a few fins. In strong Bora (over 30 knots), intermediates retreat to the protected bay of Fiesa safe in the knowledge that they’ll be swept back to the beach if they get tired or break anything. Just beware of the dead wind zone at the foot of the cliffs. A couple of kilometres south-west, just over the Croatian border is Savudrija where you can rig up sheltered from Bora winds. The launch is over a wall and through a 50m lull into strong winds and nice bump-and-jump conditions. In southerly winds, windsurfers should head for Umag to find a powerful wave by the lighthouse. The launch from a small beach right onto the harbour is comparatively easy. On the southern point of Istria is northern Croatia’s most popular spot. The EFPT meet at Premantura every autumn for freestyle windsurfing competition in good Bora winds. The safest launch is at Camping Stupice, where there’s room to rig and launch kites on a small peninsula within the campsite. Southerly winds can produce nice waves by the islands offshore, where it’s best to wear boots to protect from sharp, urchin-infested rocks. Medulin is even better in southerly winds, the prime launch is at the western end of the long shingle beach. Liznjan remained a well-kept local secret for years – even weak NE accelerates to planing strengths, and strong Bora can generate a nice wave that breaks on the reef. Another good freeride venue, Ravni scores a Force 3-5 thermal on sunny afternoons. But better known for its thermal is Preluk where an offshore Force 5-6 beckons freeriders in the early morning. Just don’t linger over breakfast or you might have to swim back in as the wind drops off 1-2 hours after sunrise. Offshore Bora renders the entire steep coastline between Rijeka and Zadar useless, but not the islands within Kvarner Bay. The northernmost, Krk Island is connected to the mainland by bridge. The hills surrounding Punat strengthen a good Bora wind by a Force or two, while in Baska even light NE airflows from the mountains above Senj hit planing strengths when everywhere else has nothing. Sick jumps can be had here off decent ramps that form in strong Bora. Further south, there are two safe spots for freeriders and beginners on the Pag peninsula at Simuni and Sabunike. Both bays have sandy beaches and large shallow areas. Croatia’s most famous beach is the 'Golden Horn’ near the picturesque town of Bol on the Dalmatian island of Brac. Most summer days a 15-knot wind builds in the strait between two islands, ideal for relaxed freeride. There is a Jul/Aug kite ban on the main beach, in which case launch onto the turquoise waters from the next beach downwind of the promontory. In south-east wind try Supetar or in Bora, Povlja. Like Bol, both Viganj and Perna on the Pelješac peninsula enjoy a summer thermal that ramps up to Force 5 in the 1.5km venturi between the islands of Korčula and Pelješac. Plus there’s a picture-postcard view of Korčula Island and its historic town of the same name.

Bora airs this urban spot more often than most – it’s windy over 100 days a year, often storm force. Launch at 'Barcola Park', opposite the Esso petrol station – or mix with the locals off the sailing club premises (nobody seems to mind too much). Some even launch their kite from the water, which isn’t really recommended. Amazing views of the castle from super-flat water, as the wind blows bolt offshore – don’t go out too far, as it’s very gusty and prone to pick up or drop off very suddenly.

Koper-Zusterna just beyond the Italian border is the most northern Balkan spot. The launch is from the left of the bay beside the surf club’s containers. The water’s rough in strong and often gusty Bora, then in summer the thermally enhanced Maestral (NW) just nudges 12-15 knots; ideal for relaxed freeriding. Izola is the better call in Bora, which blows cross-shore from the right less gusty than elsewhere out by the lighthouse. Be wary of the reef upwind as it’s claimed a few fins. In strong Bora (over 30 knots), intermediates retreat to the protected bay of Fiesa safe in the knowledge that they’ll be swept back to the beach if they get tired or break anything. Just beware of the dead wind zone at the foot of the cliffs. A couple of kilometres south-west, just over the Croatian border is Savudrija where you can rig up sheltered from Bora winds. The launch is over a wall and through a 50m lull into strong winds and nice bump-and-jump conditions. In southerly winds, windsurfers should head for Umag to find a powerful wave by the lighthouse. The launch from a small beach right onto the harbour is comparatively easy. On the southern point of Istria is northern Croatia’s most popular spot. The EFPT meet at Premantura every autumn for freestyle windsurfing competition in good Bora winds. The safest launch is at Camping Stupice, where there’s room to rig and launch kites on a small peninsula within the campsite. Southerly winds can produce nice waves by the islands offshore, where it’s best to wear boots to protect from sharp, urchin-infested rocks. Medulin is even better in southerly winds, the prime launch is at the western end of the long shingle beach. Liznjan remained a well-kept local secret for years – even weak NE accelerates to planing strengths, and strong Bora can generate a nice wave that breaks on the reef. Another good freeride venue, Ravni scores a Force 3-5 thermal on sunny afternoons. But better known for its thermal is Preluk where an offshore Force 5-6 beckons freeriders in the early morning. Just don’t linger over breakfast or you might have to swim back in as the wind drops off 1-2 hours after sunrise. Offshore Bora renders the entire steep coastline between Rijeka and Zadar useless, but not the islands within Kvarner Bay. The northernmost, Krk Island is connected to the mainland by bridge. The hills surrounding Punat strengthen a good Bora wind by a Force or two, while in Baska even light NE airflows from the mountains above Senj hit planing strengths when everywhere else has nothing. Sick jumps can be had here off decent ramps that form in strong Bora. Further south, there are two safe spots for freeriders and beginners on the Pag peninsula at Simuni and Sabunike. Both bays have sandy beaches and large shallow areas. Croatia’s most famous beach is the 'Golden Horn’ near the picturesque town of Bol on the Dalmatian island of Brac. Most summer days a 15-knot wind builds in the strait between two islands, ideal for relaxed freeride. There is a Jul/Aug kite ban on the main beach, in which case launch onto the turquoise waters from the next beach downwind of the promontory. In south-east wind try Supetar or in Bora, Povlja. Like Bol, both Viganj and Perna on the Pelješac peninsula enjoy a summer thermal that ramps up to Force 5 in the 1.5km venturi between the islands of Korčula and Pelješac. Plus there’s a picture-postcard view of Korčula Island and its historic town of the same name.

This is the Upper Adriatic’s best break, and the local standard is suitably high! It works in strong Bora with 1-2.5m waves (over 3m is possible on the outer sandbar). But the finest waves come with south-easterlies; even though the wind usually only blows 20 knots, it can generate decent swell across the full fetch of the Adriatic. Conditions are best when the wind backs north-easterly within a few hours. Due northerly wind without SE swell guarantees flat water. Conditions stay relaxed in summer thermals too, which can blow easterly up to 15 knots. Sottomarina is on the northernmost tip of Chioggia at the end of Via San Felice. At the northern end of this wide sandy beach, a huge walkable jetty extends over 300m into the Adriatic. Rig in the protection of a sand-dune between 'Al Porto’ and 'Tropical’ campsites.

Koper-Zusterna just beyond the Italian border is the most northern Balkan spot. The launch is from the left of the bay beside the surf club’s containers. The water’s rough in strong and often gusty Bora, then in summer the thermally enhanced Maestral (NW) just nudges 12-15 knots; ideal for relaxed freeriding. Izola is the better call in Bora, which blows cross-shore from the right less gusty than elsewhere out by the lighthouse. Be wary of the reef upwind as it’s claimed a few fins. In strong Bora (over 30 knots), intermediates retreat to the protected bay of Fiesa safe in the knowledge that they’ll be swept back to the beach if they get tired or break anything. Just beware of the dead wind zone at the foot of the cliffs. A couple of kilometres south-west, just over the Croatian border is Savudrija where you can rig up sheltered from Bora winds. The launch is over a wall and through a 50m lull into strong winds and nice bump-and-jump conditions. In southerly winds, windsurfers should head for Umag to find a powerful wave by the lighthouse. The launch from a small beach right onto the harbour is comparatively easy. On the southern point of Istria is northern Croatia’s most popular spot. The EFPT meet at Premantura every autumn for freestyle windsurfing competition in good Bora winds. The safest launch is at Camping Stupice, where there’s room to rig and launch kites on a small peninsula within the campsite. Southerly winds can produce nice waves by the islands offshore, where it’s best to wear boots to protect from sharp, urchin-infested rocks. Medulin is even better in southerly winds, the prime launch is at the western end of the long shingle beach. Liznjan remained a well-kept local secret for years – even weak NE accelerates to planing strengths, and strong Bora can generate a nice wave that breaks on the reef. Another good freeride venue, Ravni scores a Force 3-5 thermal on sunny afternoons. But better known for its thermal is Preluk where an offshore Force 5-6 beckons freeriders in the early morning. Just don’t linger over breakfast or you might have to swim back in as the wind drops off 1-2 hours after sunrise. Offshore Bora renders the entire steep coastline between Rijeka and Zadar useless, but not the islands within Kvarner Bay. The northernmost, Krk Island is connected to the mainland by bridge. The hills surrounding Punat strengthen a good Bora wind by a Force or two, while in Baska even light NE airflows from the mountains above Senj hit planing strengths when everywhere else has nothing. Sick jumps can be had here off decent ramps that form in strong Bora. Further south, there are two safe spots for freeriders and beginners on the Pag peninsula at Simuni and Sabunike. Both bays have sandy beaches and large shallow areas. Croatia’s most famous beach is the 'Golden Horn’ near the picturesque town of Bol on the Dalmatian island of Brac. Most summer days a 15-knot wind builds in the strait between two islands, ideal for relaxed freeride. There is a Jul/Aug kite ban on the main beach, in which case launch onto the turquoise waters from the next beach downwind of the promontory. In south-east wind try Supetar or in Bora, Povlja. Like Bol, both Viganj and Perna on the Pelješac peninsula enjoy a summer thermal that ramps up to Force 5 in the 1.5km venturi between the islands of Korčula and Pelješac. Plus there’s a picture-postcard view of Korčula Island and its historic town of the same name.

An excellent wave spot when there’s a low over the Gulf of Genoa, supplying Corsica’s north coast with south-westerly wind. The longer the Mistral blows on the mainland, the bigger the waves and shorebreak. If pure Libeccio blows in summer or goes cross-offshore southerly in winter, the water stays as smooth as with Tramontana. The summer launch for both windsurfers and kiters is via a shipping channel in front of the lifeguard tower. If you like it really radical, head to Corsica’s answer to 'Jaws’! About 2km north-west, mast-high waves and more break over an outer reef in strong Mistral or Libeccio (especially in winter). The shallows are marked, but do look out for rocks in the water. The reef's not called 'Le Danger d’Algajola’ for nothing!

Similar to 'Forte dei Marmi', this wide, sandy beach stretches from Lido di Camaiore to Viareggio. It offers loads of room outside of high season, whereas parasols rule in midsummer when kiting is banned. In south to south-westerly winds, there’s a decent beach-break over the sandbars. The area downwind of the jetty is particularly good when it’s howling.

This lagoon, with standing-depth water in many parts, offers plenty of space out of season. The mouth is dredged every May, so there's rarely much water in summer and it gets very tight with so many swimmers. The summer Nortada isn't strong enough for windsurfing anyway, although there's always the option of taking a big kite out to sea to play in the beach-break. Winter south-westerlies are more challenging, with chaotic waves and heavy shorebreak on the ocean side. The break only stays vaguely ordered on the first day of wind. In the lagoon, keep away from the shellfish farming platforms. And a fierce current in the channel to the sea spells danger – experienced windsurfers have drowned under their sails in just 50cm of water.

Koper-Zusterna just beyond the Italian border is the most northern Balkan spot. The launch is from the left of the bay beside the surf club’s containers. The water’s rough in strong and often gusty Bora, then in summer the thermally enhanced Maestral (NW) just nudges 12-15 knots; ideal for relaxed freeriding. Izola is the better call in Bora, which blows cross-shore from the right less gusty than elsewhere out by the lighthouse. Be wary of the reef upwind as it’s claimed a few fins. In strong Bora (over 30 knots), intermediates retreat to the protected bay of Fiesa safe in the knowledge that they’ll be swept back to the beach if they get tired or break anything. Just beware of the dead wind zone at the foot of the cliffs. A couple of kilometres south-west, just over the Croatian border is Savudrija where you can rig up sheltered from Bora winds. The launch is over a wall and through a 50m lull into strong winds and nice bump-and-jump conditions. In southerly winds, windsurfers should head for Umag to find a powerful wave by the lighthouse. The launch from a small beach right onto the harbour is comparatively easy. On the southern point of Istria is northern Croatia’s most popular spot. The EFPT meet at Premantura every autumn for freestyle windsurfing competition in good Bora winds. The safest launch is at Camping Stupice, where there’s room to rig and launch kites on a small peninsula within the campsite. Southerly winds can produce nice waves by the islands offshore, where it’s best to wear boots to protect from sharp, urchin-infested rocks. Medulin is even better in southerly winds, the prime launch is at the western end of the long shingle beach. Liznjan remained a well-kept local secret for years – even weak NE accelerates to planing strengths, and strong Bora can generate a nice wave that breaks on the reef. Another good freeride venue, Ravni scores a Force 3-5 thermal on sunny afternoons. But better known for its thermal is Preluk where an offshore Force 5-6 beckons freeriders in the early morning. Just don’t linger over breakfast or you might have to swim back in as the wind drops off 1-2 hours after sunrise. Offshore Bora renders the entire steep coastline between Rijeka and Zadar useless, but not the islands within Kvarner Bay. The northernmost, Krk Island is connected to the mainland by bridge. The hills surrounding Punat strengthen a good Bora wind by a Force or two, while in Baska even light NE airflows from the mountains above Senj hit planing strengths when everywhere else has nothing. Sick jumps can be had here off decent ramps that form in strong Bora. Further south, there are two safe spots for freeriders and beginners on the Pag peninsula at Simuni and Sabunike. Both bays have sandy beaches and large shallow areas. Croatia’s most famous beach is the 'Golden Horn’ near the picturesque town of Bol on the Dalmatian island of Brac. Most summer days a 15-knot wind builds in the strait between two islands, ideal for relaxed freeride. There is a Jul/Aug kite ban on the main beach, in which case launch onto the turquoise waters from the next beach downwind of the promontory. In south-east wind try Supetar or in Bora, Povlja. Like Bol, both Viganj and Perna on the Pelješac peninsula enjoy a summer thermal that ramps up to Force 5 in the 1.5km venturi between the islands of Korčula and Pelješac. Plus there’s a picture-postcard view of Korčula Island and its historic town of the same name.

A great break at the mouth of the Rio Minho. Much like 'Guincho' and 'Viana', the Nortada is reinforced by local effects here – although not quite as effective, it's still strong enough to windsurf. But it's the big waves that attract riders: even if Viana's flat, there's usually something here. This long sandy beach, complete with a small fortress, is stunning . so it gets pretty crowded in summer. With a few obvious rocks in the bay, the best launch is to the right. In winter, Moledo also works in south to south-westerly winds with really big waves. If it's too much there's always freeride on the river at 'Caminha'.

Mirns is the best kite spot on the IJsselmeer's east bank, but the vast standing-depth area is too shallow for windsurfing. It can get a bit tight for launching on land, but there’s plenty of space on the water. Southerly winds are particularly steady here.

This beach is enormous: 300m-wide and miles long. Yet in summer you’ll still have problems threading your way to the water through football field sized areas of sunloungers. 'Off-season’ are the magic words here too – it’s still a 300m walk, but then you’ll be able to fully appreciate the beach’s width and gentle drop-off.

Without a doubt, Capo Mannu is among the Mediterranean’s best breaks. Strong Mistral delivers almost Hawaiian calibre waves with wind from the right. The best conditions come when it blows south-west then veers north-westerly. It’s a bit gusty and a tough place for jumps, but makes up for it with pure down-the-line waveriding. Sail out via a channel on the left. Experts only – it’s totally rocky. Kiters launch from the beach at 'Putzu Idu'. Respect the surfers!

Zaafarana is just such a secluded desert oasis, about halfway between Cairo and Hurghada. According to managers of the local wind farm, this is the region’s windiest place – and it definitely offers the most space on the water. Only one hotel (3- to 4-star) sits on the long sandy beach. With its standing-depth area and no reefs it’s a relaxed spot without much variety, yet it is affordable and handy for excursions to nearby Cairo or St Paul’s Monastery. It’s a completely different story at the El Gouna mega-marina, built by telecoms millionaire Samih Sawiris. High-class hotels, bars and restaurants line countless bays and canals across 10km², including a marina and 5-star golf course. Due to comfy surroundings (for non-sailors too), an excellently stocked hire centre and a standing-depth area, Mangroovy Beach at the northern end has rapidly become one of the most popular (and crowded) kite spots in the whole of Egypt – despite the fact that prices here have risen to near European levels. Another option is a private beach in front of the 5-star hotel Mövenpick in the centre of the complex. Especially good for beginners kiters is Seahorse Bay 10km south of El Gouna. Similar to Zaafarana there’s nothing there but two hotels, although it’s only 15km to Hurghada’s markets and restaurants – a welcome diversion from staring at the hotel wall. Some of Hurghada’s hotels might be getting a bit tired, but they make up for it with very affordable prices. Flights to Hurghada are also by far the cheapest. With cross to cross-onshore winds, four spots merge into the bay south of town, each named after their respective hotel and hire centre: Magawish/Colona (nice beach and large standing-depth area), Sofitel/Ibi & Friends (launch protected by a jetty), Grand Seas / Tommy Friedl (protected beginner’s bay), and Yasmin Village / Tommy Friedl (a classic with affordable accommodation). 50km south, investors developed Soma Bay to offer more luxury than Hurghada. Since then, windseekers wanting a better class of accommodation can find 4- to 5-star hotels and a 'Club Robinson’. The wind always blows offshore at the northern end of the bay, creating especially smooth water but also introducing an element of risk. But the standing-depth area and safety boats mean even riders that can’t yet stay upwind will ride here. If that’s too sketchy for you, there’s cross to cross-off wind and a large standing-depth area at Abu Soma on the western shore of the bay near the InterContinental Resort. 5km south in Safaga everyone gathers in front of Hotel Shams at the beach with the only standing-depth area and the best wind. While you can’t imagine Hurghada without tourism, the future’s only just begun down south. But you’ll have to forego the beach culture and nightlife – instead, immerse yourself in the vastness of the desert or infinity of the starry sky during a pitch-black night. Despite its isolation, the 4-star hotel Equinox in El Naaba is very comfortable. In front are Baby Bay and Giant Bay, a varied venue with flat water or a bit of wave action over the reefs. There’s a kite school 2km south in Blue Lagoon. The last windsport oasis before the Sudanese border is Wadi Lahami, about 180km south of Marsa Alam Airport and about 400km from Hurghada. In front of the only hotel, Lahami Bay offers a large freeride bay with a bit of a standing-depth area and the option of a foray through the reef into harmless swell. A kilometre north, soulful Bedouin tents and chalets make up Camp Wadi Lahami which offers a shallow lagoon fringed by mangroves and a little bit of wave action over the reef. The recently discovered Camel Beach is about 10km north. Since the reef’s still a long way offshore (unlike the north coast) a gigantic standing-depth lagoon offers great cruising opportunities.

The lower part of the “Untersee” is considered the windiest part of Lake Constance (=Bodensee). Orientation and topography favor southwesterly wind whilst also every breeze from the northeast squeezes through this narrowing. There are three spots close to each other near the Swiss-German border and all three are quite popular with freeriders and freestylers. If you are looking for waves, you will be disappointed even in a storm. Sea depth and length are simply not enough here. Speaking of storm: orange rotating lights on the banks signal emerging wind. In strong winds of 25 - 33 knots (6-7 Bft.) it flashes 40 times per minute - during storm warning of 35 and more knots it’ll be 90. No matter how much wind: in any case you should pay attention to the busy boat traffic!
Berlingen West - Hornstaad attracts the most windsurfers on the Swiss side. Parking is tight, but somehow there is always a place between railway line, road and bike path. The fortified shore don’t really allow for an easy entry via two narrow stairs. However, once on the water the situation relaxes quickly.
Opposite on the German side you water either at the Strandbad Horn (at Camping Gaienhofen) for € 2.50 or you can choose the slipway at the port of Horn.

Zaafarana is just such a secluded desert oasis, about halfway between Cairo and Hurghada. According to managers of the local wind farm, this is the region’s windiest place – and it definitely offers the most space on the water. Only one hotel (3- to 4-star) sits on the long sandy beach. With its standing-depth area and no reefs it’s a relaxed spot without much variety, yet it is affordable and handy for excursions to nearby Cairo or St Paul’s Monastery. It’s a completely different story at the El Gouna mega-marina, built by telecoms millionaire Samih Sawiris. High-class hotels, bars and restaurants line countless bays and canals across 10km², including a marina and 5-star golf course. Due to comfy surroundings (for non-sailors too), an excellently stocked hire centre and a standing-depth area, Mangroovy Beach at the northern end has rapidly become one of the most popular (and crowded) kite spots in the whole of Egypt – despite the fact that prices here have risen to near European levels. Another option is a private beach in front of the 5-star hotel Mövenpick in the centre of the complex. Especially good for beginners kiters is Seahorse Bay 10km south of El Gouna. Similar to Zaafarana there’s nothing there but two hotels, although it’s only 15km to Hurghada’s markets and restaurants – a welcome diversion from staring at the hotel wall. Some of Hurghada’s hotels might be getting a bit tired, but they make up for it with very affordable prices. Flights to Hurghada are also by far the cheapest. With cross to cross-onshore winds, four spots merge into the bay south of town, each named after their respective hotel and hire centre: Magawish/Colona (nice beach and large standing-depth area), Sofitel/Ibi & Friends (launch protected by a jetty), Grand Seas / Tommy Friedl (protected beginner’s bay), and Yasmin Village / Tommy Friedl (a classic with affordable accommodation). 50km south, investors developed Soma Bay to offer more luxury than Hurghada. Since then, windseekers wanting a better class of accommodation can find 4- to 5-star hotels and a 'Club Robinson’. The wind always blows offshore at the northern end of the bay, creating especially smooth water but also introducing an element of risk. But the standing-depth area and safety boats mean even riders that can’t yet stay upwind will ride here. If that’s too sketchy for you, there’s cross to cross-off wind and a large standing-depth area at Abu Soma on the western shore of the bay near the InterContinental Resort. 5km south in Safaga everyone gathers in front of Hotel Shams at the beach with the only standing-depth area and the best wind. While you can’t imagine Hurghada without tourism, the future’s only just begun down south. But you’ll have to forego the beach culture and nightlife – instead, immerse yourself in the vastness of the desert or infinity of the starry sky during a pitch-black night. Despite its isolation, the 4-star hotel Equinox in El Naaba is very comfortable. In front are Baby Bay and Giant Bay, a varied venue with flat water or a bit of wave action over the reefs. There’s a kite school 2km south in Blue Lagoon. The last windsport oasis before the Sudanese border is Wadi Lahami, about 180km south of Marsa Alam Airport and about 400km from Hurghada. In front of the only hotel, Lahami Bay offers a large freeride bay with a bit of a standing-depth area and the option of a foray through the reef into harmless swell. A kilometre north, soulful Bedouin tents and chalets make up Camp Wadi Lahami which offers a shallow lagoon fringed by mangroves and a little bit of wave action over the reef. The recently discovered Camel Beach is about 10km north. Since the reef’s still a long way offshore (unlike the north coast) a gigantic standing-depth lagoon offers great cruising opportunities.

Windsurfers meet a few hundred metres north-west towards 'Marseillan', or on the lake's east shore at 'Le Barrou'.

The beauty of this place is its rugged, unspoilt setting; if you visit, make sure it stays that way! The break gets waves early, although cross to cross-off south-westerly conditions are rare. Mistral is usually cross-on, and not very clean – it can get big though. The best waves break over a few rocky ridges mid-way along this wide, sandy beach. Parking is usually 800m above the launch, but you might get a bit closer out of season by trying to drive down the boardwalk to the beach. Just don’t get too cocky without four-wheel-drive!

If it’s simplicity you’re after, drive to Scharbeutz and set-up along the road that follows the coast. Although the sand’s finer, conditions are similar to 'Timmendorfer' with waves only in strong north-easterly winds (with hefty currents too).

Marina di Grosseto is a bit more comfortable than its neighbours, as the beach is wider and parking spaces closer. The fairly ugly town isn't a patch on Castiglione though. On the water it's usually flat with some chop, although a strong wind will deliver waves. It’s overcrowded in summer when you can launch further south at 'Baia di Talamone'. You’ll see plenty of RRD gear around here – no wonder, as Roberto Ricci’s corporate HQ is just 10km inland in Grosseto.

This beautiful sandy beach (as good as the sand gets on the east coast) is protected by an isthmus connecting to the islet of 'Little Denmark’. Depending on water levels (which rely more on barometric pressure than tide around here) it ranges from mirror-flat to choppy – the best days are in summer high-pressure. During windier low-pressures, you’ll also find waves on the outside: initially the end of the peninsula is great for first-time wavesailors – then the further out you ride, the bigger the waves get. The best break is at the little isle of 'Vesle Sletter', but it's over a shallow, rocky seabed. Larkollen is one of Norway’s kiting epicentres, but to ride this narrow bay you at least need to be able to stay upwind.

Cala Martina shares a narrow beach with the well-known resort of 'Club Punta Arabi’. It’s relaxed cruising over turquoise waters in cross-on south-westerly to cross-shore westerly winds. It can even get crowded here in good conditions – thankfully the sunloungers disappear in winter, while the grassy rigging area, restaurant and showers remain. In the summer doldrums, you can also rent kayaks and SUPs on the beach.

The bay in front of the Slufter is much the same as it ever was, except that the third flight of stairs down to the beach has now gone. This huge standing-depth bay is good for all tides, although the water's quite a walk away at low. As the tide floods, two huge lagoons fill up inshore – perfect playgrounds for kite freestylers and beginners. The water's only deep enough for windsurfers at high tide, although they sometimes shelter from fierce westerlies here.

Thanks to a thermal on Capo Mimosa, this is Liguria’s favourite freeride venue. If there's no wind anywhere else in spring or summer, there might still be 15 knots here. In strong winds, this sandy beach also works as a wave spot. In winter, the club maintains a container with showers and changing-rooms. Parking is near bar 'Beach’.

North-west of the freshwater lake Limni Korission is the island's most popular kite spot – although it's never that busy. At most 30 kites share the skies above a 20m wide sandy beach. Happily, swimmers rarely come here as the beach is off the beaten track and the last mile down the dirt track is bumpy. Like neighbouring 'Issos', the summer wind usually stays manageable here; the most popular kites are 12-14m. There's a kite hire centre on site, right next door to a beach bar for those glorious sunsets.

Coming from the east, Somo is the first (and best) launch into 'Bahía de Santander’. The beach is long, wide and sandy, the waves form a clean beach-break – and there’s only ever shorebreak at high tide. The quality also deteriorates in a big swell, when you’ll have thundering white water to deal with. Otherwise it’s a good break for surfing too, although so close to the city it's often crowded at the peak. There’s strong current in big swell and out in the rivermouth, while a shipwreck exposes at low tide. Without swell, the bay is also good for freeride in north-easterlies, offering long reaches past Isla de Mouro and Palacio de la Magdalena all the way to the impressive Cabo Mayor.

In summer you'll need a huge kite here, hence Georgioupoli is more of a winter spot. Building winds bring stronger currents, but on good days the locals from Chania and Rethimnon head here as it's their nearest spot for northerlies.

The southern Ria de Aveiro has become ever-more popular in recent years, especially for kiting. Choose your launch depending on wind direction. Most kiters visit Estacas for Nortada and in southerly or westerly winds, in easterlies the spot of choice is 'Biarritz' at the roundabout off the bridge. The water's a little deeper over here – you can even windsurf at low tide at 'Costa Nova Ria'. But if you're expecting to spend much time walking on the sandy seabed, wear shoes to protect from the shells. Tides ensure there's some current all over.

North of the historic old town, a 500m strip of shallow water stretches about 2km along the shore. Just venture a little further out to have fun in easterly winds that blow freely across the IJsselmeer. After a session, the beautiful city of Enkhuizen is well worth a visit.

The island's kite spot can be found by bearing right after crossing the swing bridge from the mainland, then keep going until the windmills. The wind here's generally onshore and weaker than Vassiliki, although a chest-high swell can develop. If the breeze veers northerly and the thermals weaken a bit in Vassiliki, it's worth a look for windsurfing – and as kiting is prohibited in Vass all year long, Agios Ioannis (or 'Milos Beach') is Lefkada's only option for kitesurfing.

This long sandy beach is speedsailing and freestyle nirvana. The Nortada blows strongest and most reliably in this part of the Algarve – it’s bolt offshore here, flattening every ripple. The wind is therefore a little gusty inshore, but you can stand up quite a way out on lower tides. Gets busy on the beach and in the water in high summer – although when it's windy the swimmers and sunbathers get sandblasted away! Winter’s a completely different story: north-east to south-easterly Levante means chaotic waves and strong currents – it stays sailable for a couple of days before the seas get too rough.

Vrouwenpolder is the North Sea launch from the Veersedam. A popular surf spot in north-west to westerly winds – which is a bit special, as Holland has few launches where westerly blows cross-shore. Too bad the bay is silting up, and needs so much wind due to the shadow cast by the surrounding land. Like across the road, it's “betaald parkeren” (paid parking). Carry your kit across the concrete dyke and keep going – it’s a long way to the water, especially at low tide. But the upside is a shallow pool that's great for practising. Waves are best at high tide.

Surrounded by steep cliffs, this wide bay is sometimes called “Galicia’s Ho’okipa” – San Xurxo isn’t the Rías Altas’ most popular wave spot for nothing. The waves are always a little smaller than 'Doniños', yet better organised. North-easterly is slightly offshore from the right, allowing clean frontside down-the-line riding. If the wind backs cross-onshore northerly you'll be better off at 'Doniños'. The waves are biggest on the first few days of north-easterly, before progressively dropping off. Low-pressure south-westerlies (cross-off from the left, most often in winter) deliver consistent swell, which stays rideable here while 'Doniños' soon gets gnarly. Both wind directions are a bit gusty inshore, while the waves are best at mid-tide on the drop.

In north-westerly, thermal summer north-north-easterly, and south-westerly Libeccio wind, try Plage du Club Olympique. The wind's often gusty, but the standing-depth area and flat water are ideal for beginners – away from the breakwaters. It gets crowded in summertime, kiting is only tolerated from mid-September. To the east, the wind blows even stronger at 'Plage de la Légion'. This end of the beach is by the military zone, which is why you have to park at Club Olympique and walk (or ride) the last 800m. South-westerly isn't as gusty here and even delivers some waves. There are fewer swimmers too, so even in summer you’re allowed to kite.