After doing a tandem paraglide flight in Alpe d’Huez back in 2015, I became completely hooked on the sport. Now, I see it as one of the top activities to do in the Alps and the best thing about it is that paragliding can be enjoyed both in winter and summer. From a nervous flyer’s perspective, read on to find out how to survive your first paraglide flight in the Alps.
1. What you can expect
Video Credit: Les Gets Tourisme
When skiing in the Alps, I always marvelled at the parapenters (French for para-gliders) circling high above the peaks. Just imagine the view they have up there! As a bit of an adrenaline fan I thought that it could be something right up my street, but when the chance finally came to have my first para-glide flight, I was completely filled with apprehension. It certainly doesn’t help that the French parapente instructors are some of the most chilled people i’ve ever met. “It’s no biggie, jumping off a cliff and flying is normal for a human”. Yeah, right!!
So in short and to give you a complete realistic expectation, I am here to help. Firstly, It is a big deal but it is no way as scary as it seems. Secondly, parapenting is actually quite relaxing (think floating, gliding and coasting through the air rather than falling). Finally, you’re not alone, you have an expert there to do everything for you, so sit back, relax and enjoy the views and exhilaration!
2. What you will need
Paragliding really is accessible to all and for everyone the most important thing to bring is exactly the same… Your tandem instructor! They will know and have all the gear to get you up in the skies enjoying the Alps in a way you have never done before. So that just leaves you to bring a sensible pair of shoes, a jacket to cut the wind chill and a steady head.
3. Where best to try it
Paragliding in the Alps can be found in almost every resort and the best thing about it is that each place has their very own unique views to offer. How about a day trip to Annecy and fly over Lac Annecy watching the boats and water sports enthusiasts below? Perhaps you will choose to head to one of the highest resorts in the Alps, such as Tignes and enjoy flying around jagged peaks and snowy glaciers. Or stick to the valley resorts of Morzine and Les Gets and watch mountain bikers racing along the trail paths at high speeds.
If you’re in Switzerland then head to Verbier the king of paragliding resorts in the Alps. I think during my time in Verbier there wasn’t ever an occasion where a para-glider wasn’t overhead!
4. How you do it
It may be a silly idea, but just before take off you may be stood there on the a grassy plain just wondering how you are meant to end up flying amongst the birds and clouds. Taking off, for me, was one of the best parts. Clear your head, start running with pace and you will soon feel the parachute filling with air and starting to lift. From there, your tandem flight instructor will have the controls and be turning you so that you head in the right direction. Once you’re confident they will add a few twist and spins and donuts and spirals, but don’t worry there aren’t any loop the loops!
Coming in to land? Then get your running feet back on and you’ll swiftly come to a stop. Simple!
5. What next?
Once you’ve given this a go, I guarantee you will have caught the mountain adrenaline bug. Don’t worry, there are plenty of other sports and activities to get your teeth into! Why not hit the rivers and give white water rafting or canyoning a go? Looking for a bit of downhill speed? Then mountain biking is the one for you. Or finally wanting to have another go at testing your vertigo? Then try the via ferrata trails or tyrolines (zip wires).
If you are after a bit more information about the resorts you can visit to have your first taste of paragliding in the Alps, then please get in touch. Amongst the team here, we not only have keen skiers but all round mountain enthusiasts, so we will be really happy to give you some, hints, tips and ideas. You can give us a call on +44 (0)1202 203659 or send us an email and we will gladly help you to find the perfect place to stay on your trip!
To end on an amusing note… I have provided you the opportunity to giggle away at a picture of me on my first paraglide flight!
