Best Paragliding in Europe: Top Destinations in 2023

Check out my curated list of the places with the best paragliding in Europe. It’s ALL that my kids want to do when we travel.

If you’re an adrenaline junkie looking for your next adventure, paragliding should definitely be on your list. Europe is home to some of the best paragliding spots in the world, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. From the stunning Swiss Alps to the turquoise coast of Turkey, there’s no shortage of options for those seeking to soar through the skies.

Quick Take:

• Europe is home to some of the best paragliding spots in the world, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
• Italy, Spain, Switzerland, and Turkey are just a few of the prime destinations for paragliding in Europe.
• Safety measures are crucial in paragliding, and it’s important to understand the basics before taking to the skies. You should understand the parts of a paraglider and that statistically paragliding is very safe.

Best Paragliding Locations in Europe

If you’re looking for the ultimate paragliding experience, Europe has got you covered. With its stunning landscapes, diverse terrain, and favorable weather conditions, Europe offers some of the best paragliding locations in the world. Here are some of the top paragliding destinations in Europe that you should definitely check out:

Interlaken, Switzerland

Interlaken is a picturesque town located in the Swiss Alps, known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. It is one of the most popular paragliding destinations in Europe, offering spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys. The best time to go paragliding in Interlaken is from May to October, when the weather is mild and sunny.

Chamonix, France

Chamonix is a world-renowned ski resort located in the French Alps, but it’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts. With its high-altitude peaks, deep valleys, and stunning glaciers, Chamonix offers some of the most challenging and rewarding paragliding experiences in Europe.

The best time to go paragliding in Chamonix is from June to September, when the weather is warm and stable.

➡️ Read my full review of the Best Paragliding in Chamonix.

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Ölüdeniz, Turkey

Ölüdeniz is a small village located on the southwest coast of Turkey, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches. It’s also one of the best paragliding destinations in Europe, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Taurus Mountains, and the surrounding countryside. The best time to go paragliding in Ölüdeniz is from April to November, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Val d’Isère, France

Val d’Isère is a world-class ski resort located in the French Alps, but it’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts. With its high-altitude peaks, deep valleys, and stunning glaciers, Val d’Isère offers some of the most challenging and rewarding paragliding experiences in Europe. The best time to go paragliding in Val d’Isère is from June to September, when the weather is warm and stable.

Tenerife, Spain

Tenerife is a beautiful island located in the Canary Islands, known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and volcanic landscapes. It’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Teide volcano, and the surrounding countryside. The best time to go paragliding in Tenerife is from October to May, when the weather is mild and sunny.

Stubai Valley, Austria

Stubai Valley is a beautiful valley located in the Austrian Alps, known for its stunning glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green forests. It’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The best time to go paragliding in Stubai Valley is from June to September, when the weather is warm and stable.

Santorini, Greece

Santorini is a beautiful island located in the Aegean Sea, known for its stunning sunsets, white-washed buildings, and blue-domed churches. It’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the caldera, the surrounding islands, and the Mediterranean Sea. The best time to go paragliding in Santorini is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny.

Bavarian Alps, Germany

The Bavarian Alps are a beautiful mountain range located in southern Germany, known for their stunning peaks, deep valleys, and crystal-clear lakes. It’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the Alps. The best time to go paragliding in the Bavarian Alps is from May to October, when the weather is mild and sunny.

Azores, Portugal

The Azores are a beautiful group of islands located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, known for their stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and lush green forests. It’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding islands, the Atlantic Ocean, and the volcanic landscapes. The best time to go paragliding in the Azores is from May to October, when the weather is mild and sunny.

Iceland

Iceland is a beautiful country located in the North Atlantic, known for its stunning glaciers, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes. It’s also a top destination for paragliding enthusiasts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, glaciers, and the Atlantic Ocean. The best time to go paragliding in Iceland is from June to September, when the weather is mild

Italy’s Prime Paragliding Spots

Italy is home to some of the best paragliding sites in Europe, with options ranging from the dramatic Dolomites mountain range to the lakes and coasts. Here are some of the prime paragliding spots in Italy that you should definitely check out:

Dolomites

The Dolomites mountain range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers some of the most breathtaking paragliding experiences in Italy. With its stunning peaks, valleys, and lakes, the Dolomites offer a unique and unforgettable paragliding experience. Some of the popular spots for paragliding in the Dolomites include Mount Pizzocolo and San Michele.

Lake Garda

Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy and offers some of the most scenic paragliding experiences in the country. The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Some of the popular spots for paragliding in Lake Garda include Mount Baldo and Mount Altissimo.

Umbria

Umbria is a region in central Italy and is known for its picturesque landscapes and medieval towns. It is also home to some of the best paragliding spots in Italy. The region offers a variety of paragliding experiences, from soaring over the rolling hills to gliding over the valleys. Some of the popular spots for paragliding in Umbria include Mount Subasio and Mount Cucco.

Paragliding in the Spanish Skies

Spain is a country that offers some of the best paragliding experiences in Europe. With its diverse landscapes, stunning coastlines, and mountain ranges, Spain has become a popular destination for paragliders from all over the world. Here are some of the best places to go paragliding in Spain:

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Tenerife is one of the most popular destinations for paragliding in Spain. With its year-round warm weather and stunning views, it’s easy to see why. The island offers a variety of paragliding experiences, from tandem flights for beginners to cross-country flights for the more experienced. You can soar over the Teide National Park, the Anaga Mountains, or the stunning coastline.

Ager, Catalonia

Ager is a small town located in the Pyrenees Mountains in Catalonia. It’s a popular destination for paragliders due to its favorable weather conditions and stunning views. The town is surrounded by mountains and offers a variety of take-off points, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced paragliders. Ager is also home to one of the largest paragliding festivals in Europe, which takes place every year in August.

Algodonales, Andalusia

Algodonales is a small town located in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park in Andalusia. It’s a popular destination for paragliding due to its favorable weather conditions and stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside. The town is home to several paragliding schools and offers a variety of take-off points for both beginners and experienced paragliders.

Paragliding in Switzerland: A Scenic Dive

If you’re looking for a paragliding experience that combines breathtaking scenery with a thrilling adventure, Switzerland should be at the top of your list. With its snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush green valleys, Switzerland offers some of the most spectacular paragliding sites in Europe and is a great photographic location for paragliding. Don’t forget to get the best caption for paragliding.

One of the most popular destinations for paragliding in Switzerland is Interlaken. Located in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, Interlaken offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. You can take off from either the Harder Kulm or Beatenberg, both of which offer a bird’s-eye view of Lake Thun and Lake Brienz.

Another great spot for paragliding in Switzerland is Davos-Klosters. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Davos-Klosters is known for its wide open spaces and stunning mountain vistas. You can take off from either Jakobshorn or Parsenn and soar over the snow-capped peaks and valleys below.

If you’re looking for a more challenging paragliding experience, Verbier is the place to go. Located in the Valais region of Switzerland, Verbier offers some of the most extreme paragliding conditions in Europe. You can take off from Mont-Fort, which is over 3,000 meters above sea level, and enjoy a thrilling ride over the rugged mountain terrain.

Montenegro Paragliding

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping paragliding experience, Montenegro is a great place to visit. With stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and rugged mountains, Montenegro has become a popular destination for paragliders around the world.

One of the best places to go paragliding in Montenegro is in Budva. Paragliding Budva offers tandem flights that allow you to soar above the city and take in the breathtaking views of the coastline. The flights are conducted by experienced pilots who are certified by the Montenegrin Paragliding Association, ensuring your safety throughout the flight.

Another popular spot for paragliding in Montenegro is Kotor Bay. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop, Kotor Bay is a picturesque location to go paragliding. You can take a tandem flight with a certified pilot and enjoy the views of the bay from above.

Spring and autumn are the best times to go paragliding in Montenegro, as the weather is mild and the skies are clear. However, it’s important to note that paragliding is a weather-dependent activity and flights may be cancelled due to poor weather conditions.

French Flights: Paragliding in France

France is one of the most popular destinations for paragliding enthusiasts. With its diverse landscapes, including mountains, hills, and valleys, France offers a wide range of paragliding experiences for both beginners and experienced pilots. Some of the top paragliding spots in France include Annecy, Talloires-Montmin, La Clusaz, and more.

Annecy is known as the “Venice of the Alps” and is one of the most popular destinations for paragliding in France. The town is located on the shores of Lake Annecy and offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The takeoff point is located at Col de la Forclaz, which is accessible by car or cable car. The flight lasts for about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains.

Talloires-Montmin is another popular destination for paragliding in France. The takeoff point is located at Col de la Forclaz, which is accessible by car or cable car. The flight lasts for about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains.

La Clusaz is a small village located in the French Alps and is known for its beautiful mountain scenery. The takeoff point is located at the top of the ski lift, which is accessible by cable car. The flight lasts for about 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

In addition to these popular paragliding spots, France also offers a wide range of paragliding schools and courses for beginners and experienced pilots. These schools offer courses in different languages, including English, French, German, and more.

Alpine Adventures: Paragliding in the Alps

If you’re looking for an unforgettable paragliding experience, the Alps should be at the top of your list. With stunning mountain vistas and a variety of launch sites, the Alps offer some of the best paragliding in Europe.

The Swiss Alps are particularly renowned for their paragliding opportunities. Interlaken is a popular destination for adventurers, with nearly a dozen different centers offering paragliding experiences. The Jungfrau region, which includes the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks, is a particularly scenic spot to take to the skies.

Chamonix, located in the French Alps, is another fantastic destination for paragliding. The town sits at the base of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in the Alps, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Launch sites include Planpraz and Plan de l’Aiguille.

In Switzerland, the Schilthorn and First mountains are also popular paragliding spots. The Schilthorn, located in the Bernese Alps, offers breathtaking views of the Jungfrau region. First, located in the Grindelwald region, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Turkey’s Top Paragliding Destinations

One of the most popular paragliding spots in Turkey is Oludeniz. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Oludeniz is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning beaches. The town is nestled between two mountains, Babadag and Mendos, which make it an ideal take-off point for paragliders. You can soar over the turquoise sea and enjoy the panoramic views of the coastline and the Taurus Mountains. Oludeniz is also home to the International Oludeniz Air Games, which take place every year in October.

Another great paragliding destination in Turkey is Cappadocia. This region is famous for its unique rock formations, fairy chimneys, and underground cities. Paragliding in Cappadocia offers a completely different experience than paragliding over the sea. You can glide over the lunar-like landscape and marvel at the stunning views of the valleys, mountains, and ancient ruins. The best time to go paragliding in Cappadocia is during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the landscape are at their most vibrant.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous paragliding experience, Liberty Paragliding in Fethiye is the place to go. This paragliding company offers tandem flights from the top of Babadag Mountain, which is more than 1,900 meters high. You can experience the thrill of flying over the mountains and the sea with an experienced pilot. Liberty Paragliding also offers paragliding courses for those who want to learn how to fly on their own.

Icelandic Paragliding Experience

If you’re looking for a unique and thrilling paragliding experience, Iceland should be on your list. The country’s stunning landscapes, including glaciers, volcanoes, black sand beaches, and waterfalls, make it an ideal destination for paragliding enthusiasts.

One of the best places to go paragliding in Iceland is Reykjavik, the country’s capital city. From here, you can take a tandem paragliding tour and soar over the city’s picturesque surroundings, including the nearby mountains and coastline. You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Reykjavik’s colorful houses, the famous Blue Lagoon, and the Reykjanesfólkvangur National Park.

Another popular spot for paragliding in Iceland is Vík í Mýrdal, a small village located on the country’s south coast. Here, you can take off from the top of a mountain and glide over the village, the nearby Seljalandsfoss waterfall, and the iconic Reynisdrangar sea stacks.

It’s important to note that paragliding in Iceland is highly weather-dependent, and flights can be canceled or postponed due to strong winds, rain, or other adverse conditions. Therefore, it’s recommended to book your paragliding tour in advance and keep an eye on the weather forecast.

Greece: A Mediterranean Paragliding Paradise

Greece is a popular tourist destination with a rich history and culture, but it’s also a great spot for paragliding enthusiasts. With its stunning coastline, mountainous terrain, and favorable weather conditions, Greece offers a unique and unforgettable paragliding experience.

One of the best places to go paragliding in Greece is Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. In particular, Chania is a popular destination for paragliders, with its rugged cliffs and clear blue waters providing a breathtaking backdrop for your flight. The nearby beach of Falasarna is also a great spot for paragliding, with its long stretches of sandy beach and crystal-clear waters.

If you’re looking for a more challenging paragliding experience, head to Varipetro, a small village located in the foothills of the White Mountains. The village is surrounded by stunning scenery, including deep gorges and soaring peaks, making it an ideal spot for experienced paragliders.

One of the unique experiences you can have while paragliding in Greece is seeing the Northern Lights from above. While the Northern Lights are typically associated with colder climates, Greece’s location at the southern end of Europe means that you can sometimes see the lights from the air during the winter months.

Finally, if you’re looking for a truly unforgettable paragliding experience, head to Balos, a lagoon located on the northwestern coast of Crete. The lagoon is surrounded by steep cliffs and turquoise waters, making it a popular spot for paragliders looking for a challenge.

Paragliding in Portugal

If you’re looking for a thrilling paragliding experience, Portugal should be on your list. With its beautiful landscapes, mild climate, and a coastline that stretches for over 800 km, Portugal offers some of the best paragliding sites in Europe.

Where to Paraglide in Portugal

Here are some of the top paragliding sites in Portugal:

• Setúbal: Located just south of Lisbon, Setúbal is a popular destination for paragliders. The takeoff point is at the top of the Arrábida Mountains, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city of Lisbon.
• Montalegre: This small town in the north of Portugal is known for its medieval castle and its paragliding site. The takeoff point is at the top of the Larouco Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• The Azores: This group of islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean offers some of the most scenic paragliding sites in Portugal. The island of São Miguel is a popular destination for paragliders, with its lush green forests, volcanic craters, and stunning coastline.
• The Algarve: This region in the south of Portugal is known for its beautiful beaches and warm climate. The takeoff point is at the top of the Rocha da Pena mountain, offering panoramic views of the Algarve coastline.
• Linhares: This small village in the north of Portugal is known for its natural beauty and its paragliding site. The takeoff point is at the top of the Serra da Estrela mountain, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Paragliding Tours and Schools

If you’re new to paragliding or want to improve your skills, there are several paragliding schools and tours in Portugal. Here are some of the most popular ones:

• Windpassenger: This company offers paragliding tours in several locations in Portugal, including Setúbal, Montalegre, and the Azores.
• Skyadventures: This paragliding school is located in the Algarve and offers courses for beginners and advanced paragliders.
• Flytime: This paragliding school is located in the north of Portugal and offers courses for beginners and advanced paragliders.

Safety Tips

Paragliding can be a dangerous sport, so it’s important to take safety seriously. Here are some tips to stay safe while paragliding in Portugal:

• Always check the weather conditions before flying.
• Make sure your equipment is in good condition.
• Wear a helmet and other protective gear.
• Follow the instructions of your instructor or guide.
• Never fly alone.

Austrian Sky: Paragliding in Austria

If you’re looking for an exhilarating paragliding experience, Austria should be at the top of your list. With its stunning alpine scenery and ideal flying conditions, Austria is a paradise for paragliders.

One of the best places to go paragliding in Austria is Salzburg. This UNESCO site is surrounded by mountains that provide an ideal starting point for paragliding. You can take off from the Gaisberg or Untersberg mountains and soar above the city, taking in breathtaking views of the Salzach River and the surrounding countryside.

Another great destination for paragliding in Austria is Mayrhofen. This charming town in the Zillertal Valley is known for its excellent skiing, but it’s also a fantastic place to go paragliding. You can take off from the Penken or Ahorn mountains and glide over the valley, enjoying panoramic views of the Alps.

Innsbruck is another popular destination for paragliding in Austria. This historic city is surrounded by mountains that offer excellent flying conditions. You can take off from the Nordkette mountain range and soar above the city, taking in stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

German Paragliding Sites

Germany boasts some of the most picturesque and thrilling paragliding sites in Europe. From the Bavarian Alps to the Black Forest, the country offers a wide range of terrains that cater to both novice and experienced paragliders. Here are some of the best paragliding sites in Germany that you should check out:

Brauneck, Lenggries

Located in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, Brauneck is a popular starting point for paragliders. It offers a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys, making it an ideal spot for tandem paragliding. The site is accessible via a cable car, which takes you to the launch point at the summit.

Wallberg, Rottach-Egern

Another popular site in Bavaria is Wallberg, which offers a breathtaking view of the Tegernsee valley. It is situated at an altitude of 1,722 meters and is accessible via a cable car. The site is known for its smooth thermals, making it a great spot for cross-country flights.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Schwangau

For a unique paragliding experience, head to Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in Germany. The site offers a bird’s eye view of the castle, as well as the surrounding lakes and mountains. It is located in the Allgäu region of Bavaria, and is accessible via a chairlift.

Feldberg, Black Forest

The Black Forest is another popular destination for paragliders, and Feldberg is one of the best sites in the region. It offers a stunning view of the forest and the surrounding hills, and is accessible via a cable car. The site is known for its strong thermals, making it a great spot for experienced paragliders.

Wasserkuppe, Rhön Mountains

Wasserkuppe is the highest peak in the Rhön Mountains and is a popular destination for paragliding enthusiasts. It offers a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and is known for its smooth thermals, making it an ideal spot for cross-country flights. The site is accessible via a cable car.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paraglider, Germany has something to offer for everyone. With its stunning landscapes and smooth thermals, it’s no surprise that the country is one of the top paragliding destinations in Europe.

Safety Measures in Paragliding

Paragliding can be a thrilling experience, but it is important to take safety measures seriously to avoid potential hazards. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind before you take off:

Tandem Flights

If you are new to paragliding, a tandem flight with an experienced instructor is a great way to get started. During a tandem flight, you will be securely strapped to the instructor’s harness, and they will control the paraglider. This allows you to enjoy the experience without having to worry about controlling the paraglider yourself. Make sure to choose an experienced instructor and check their credentials before booking a tandem flight.

Safety Equipment

Wearing proper safety equipment is crucial in paragliding. A good quality helmet is a must-have to protect your head in case of a fall or collision. Also, make sure to wear a harness that fits you properly and has a reserve parachute in case of an emergency. Check your equipment before every flight to ensure it is in good working condition.

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions play a vital role in paragliding. Always check the weather forecast before heading out for a flight. Avoid flying in strong winds, rain, or thunderstorms as they can be extremely dangerous. Also, be aware of the time of day you are flying as thermals can become unstable in the late afternoon.

Flying with a Systematic Approach

Paragliding safety can be increased by approaching the sport with a systematic approach. Correct safety checks on equipment and discipline when in flight can help you to avoid most dangerous situations and ensure you live to fly another day. Make sure to maintain relationships with experienced paragliders to learn from their experiences and knowledge.

By following these safety measures, you can enjoy paragliding while minimizing the risks involved. Remember to always prioritize safety and never take unnecessary risks.

Conclusion

You have now discovered some of the best paragliding spots in Europe. These locations offer incredible views and a thrilling adventure sport experience. Whether you are an experienced paraglider or a beginner, there is something for everyone.

Europe is an adventure capital and paragliding is just one of the many excursions you can enjoy. Parasailing is another great activity to do with family. Here’s the statistics of parasailing accidents to put your mind at ease.

If you are planning your holidays, consider adding a paragliding day trip to your itinerary. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of Europe from a different perspective.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best paragliding spots in Europe?

Europe offers some of the best paragliding destinations in the world, and the top spots include Interlaken in Switzerland, Annecy in France, Ölüdeniz in Turkey, and Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland. Other popular locations include Chamonix in France, Algodonales in Spain, and Fiesch in Switzerland.

Where can I find affordable paragliding options in Europe?

If you’re on a budget, you can find affordable paragliding options in many European countries. Turkey, Bulgaria, and Romania are some of the most affordable destinations. In addition, you can find affordable options in Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

What are the top places to learn paragliding in Europe?

There are many excellent paragliding schools in Europe where you can learn the sport. Some of the top places include Verbier in Switzerland, Annecy in France, and Algodonales in Spain. Other popular locations for paragliding lessons include Ölüdeniz in Turkey, Fiesch in Switzerland, and Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland.

Which European countries are known for their paragliding destinations?

Switzerland, France, and Spain are the most popular countries for paragliding in Europe. Other countries with excellent paragliding destinations include Turkey, Italy, and Austria.

What are the best paragliding tours available in Europe?

There are many paragliding tour operators in Europe that offer guided tours of the best paragliding spots. Some of the best tours include the French Alps tour, the Swiss Alps tour, and the Turkish Riviera tour. Other popular tours include the Italian Lakes tour and the Austrian Alps tour.

Are there any lesser-known paragliding destinations in Europe that are worth visiting?

Yes, there are many lesser-known paragliding destinations in Europe that are worth visiting. Some of the hidden gems include Kamnik-Savinja Alps in Slovenia, the Black Forest in Germany, and the Pyrenees in Spain. Other lesser-known destinations include the Carpathian Mountains in Romania and the Tatra Mountains in Poland.

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