Top 7 Paragliding Spots

The sky has always attracted people. Already in ancient Greece, a myth appeared about the first people who managed to rise into the sky — Daedalus and Icarus. But if it was a myth then, now flights have become a reality. You should also not limit your flights to just airplanes. We will tell you about the top places where you can break away from the ground and fly, enjoying the landscapes from above.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

If you ever go to Rio de Janeiro, you simply must see this city from a bird’s-eye view — fly near the Christ the Redeemer statue and look at Rio’s majestic Sugarloaf Mountain. The main feature of flights in Rio de Janeiro is the thrilling landings on the golden beach. Many companies attach GoPro cameras to hang gliders, so you can capture the best moments of your flight. Cost ≈ 85 euros

Dune Du Pyla, France

A remote corner of France, beloved by tourists for one of the largest dunes in Europe. From a height of 130 meters, you will get a view of the Atlantic Ocean in all its glory. In the nearby town of Arcachon, you will find many schools for beginner paragliders, each of which will offer you a flight over the Dune du Pilat. It is recommended to fly barefoot, and be sure to coordinate the time so that there are as few flying tourists as possible.

Cost ≈ 146 euros

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Alps, France

The Chamonix Valley has claimed the title of the birthplace of paragliding for many years. From March until October, amateurs and professionals gather here to take to the sky again. A special feature of this region is that eagles fly here, and experienced instructors can show them to you from a bird’s-eye view. Cost from 126 to 280 euros (depends on flight duration)

Oludeniz, Turkey

Oludeniz rightfully contends for the title of the European center for paragliding and hang gliding. Flights over the blue lagoon have captivated not only European tourists but also guests from other continents. It’s an ideal place if you want to ascend to a height and then go bask on the beach. The flight usually starts from Mount Babadag, which translates to “father-mountain.” Five steps, and you are already in flight, with the beauties of Butterfly Valley, the azure of the Blue Lagoon, and ancient ruins of old cities unfolding before you. The flight lasts about 30 minutes. Cost from 43 to 58 euros

Hemsedal, Norway

Hemsedal is known not only for its excellent ski resorts but also as a launch site for flights over the sprawling beauty of northern Norway. Summer flights are quite safe. Local schools offer flights that are much longer than in other parts of the world — about an hour. Thanks to the white nights, you can fly here under the morning and evening pink sky. Cost ≈ 180 euros

Pokhara, Nepal

Soaring over the Himalayas is one of those things you must do at least once in your life! Due to challenging weather conditions, paragliders in Nepal mainly gather in Pokhara. It is there that you will be offered to go to Sarangkot — a 20-minute drive from Pokhara, and you’re there. Takeoff, ascent — and the unparalleled landscapes of Phewa Lake and three Himalayan giants: Dhaulagiri, Annapurna, and Manaslu unfold before you. Cost from 80 to 250 euros (depends on whether you want to ascend into the sky for 30 minutes or fly over a mountain pass)

Tuscany, Italy

Thanks to its wine fields, Tuscany has become famous among many travelers. The landscapes of Tuscany are so amazing that many artists depicted them in their paintings. This region is highly popular among many paragliders and hang gliders. Your flight will take you over endless vineyards and stunning hilly landscapes, which will remain in your memory for a long time. In Tuscany, there are many independent instructors and schools ready to take you on a flight and show you the beauties of Italy. Cost 120 to 180 euros (depends on flight duration, bargaining is also appropriate)