Paragliding
Winter paragliding: a magical activity to enjoy in Savoie
Dreaming of soaring above snow-covered mountains and floating through the air with a view of immaculate peaks? Winter paragliding is an unusual and unforgettable activity attracting more and more mountain lovers. Whether after a day’s skiing or as the main event, flying above the Alps in a paraglider is a moment of pure freedom, between sky and snow.
In the resorts of Savoie, particularly in Les Trois Vallées and Paradiski, the activity is accessible to all, even in winter, thanks to ski-in take-offs. Guided by a qualified instructor, you discover the mountain from a unique angle. And to live this adventure in the best conditions, there is nothing like renting a comfortable chalet, balancing relaxation with the great outdoors.
The origins of paragliding: from peaks to skies
Paragliding originated in the 1970s in Haute-Savoie. Aviation and mountain enthusiasts, inspired by parachuting, imagined a wing capable of taking off by running down a slope. The concept quickly caught on: light, manoeuvrable and motor-free, paragliding allows you to fly autonomously from the summits, riding air currents.
The discipline evolved rapidly to become a recognised sport, with its schools, competitions and variations. Today, paragliding is enjoyed in summer and winter alike, with specific adaptations for taking off from snow or with skis on.
How to go paragliding in winter?
Contrary to popular belief, paragliding is not just a summer activity. Winter actually offers particularly beautiful flying conditions, with more stable air, snow-covered landscapes and crystal-clear light. Winter paragliding is generally enjoyed as a tandem flight, supervised by a professional instructor.
🪂 How a winter paragliding flight unfolds:
- Meeting at the take-off point (usually at the top of a chairlift)
- Brief briefing on how the flight will unfold and on safety instructions
- Equipping the passenger: helmet, harness, warm clothing
- Ski-in take-off: a few metres of gliding and you are airborne!
- Flight of 10 to 20 minutes depending on conditions
- Gentle landing, sometimes on a piste or designated area in the resort
No experience is required for a flight. Everything is taken care of by the instructor, who adjusts the duration, altitude and sensations to the passenger’s level.
A funny moment: the day a skier took off without meaning to
In Courchevel, an instructor was preparing a tandem take-off from the top of La Loze with a tourist who was enthusiastic… a touch too enthusiastic. At the moment of departure, the latter pulled on the wing too soon, sweeping along the instructor who had not yet buckled his harness. The result: a few metres of unbalanced flight before a soft landing in the powder. More fright than harm! Ever since, the instructor tells the story at every briefing, reminding everyone that the pilot does the take-off, not the passenger!
The best times to go paragliding in winter
Winter paragliding is enjoyed from December to April, depending on weather conditions and snow cover. Here are the best periods:
- January – February: clear skies, fresh snow, excellent visibility
- March: longer days, soft light, favourable thermal conditions
- April: bright days, pleasant temperatures, often longer flights
✅ In the morning: pure light and little wind
✅ In the early afternoon: gentler conditions, longer flights
Professionals adjust the timings each day to guarantee the best flying conditions and safety.
Where to go paragliding in Les Trois Vallées?
The Les Trois Vallées domain offers several outstanding spots for winter paragliding, accessible from the leading resorts.
❄️ Courchevel
One of the best-known sites. Take-off is often from the summit of La Vizelle or the Col de la Loze, with a stunning view over the Vanoise. Paragliding schools offer discovery flights or thrill flights, sometimes even with acrobatics for the more daring.
❄️ Méribel
Méribel offers flights above the valley, with possible take-offs from Tougnète or Le Roc de Fer. Landings are often near Méribel Village. Perfect for a contemplative flight with views over snow-covered forests and traditional chalets.
Where to go paragliding in Paradiski?
The Paradiski domain (La Plagne, Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry) is also a fabulous playground for winter paragliding enthusiasts.
❄️ La Plagne
The resort has several high-altitude take-off zones, particularly above Plagne Bellecôte with a departure at La Roche de Mio, or above Plagne Centre at the summit of La Grande Rochette. Flying over the snow-covered plateaus of La Plagne is an incredible visual experience, blending gentleness and immensity.
❄️ Les Arcs
Flights often start from the ridges between Les Arcs 1800 and 2000, with a sweeping view over the Tarentaise valley. Conditions are very stable here, ideal for long-duration flights, sometimes as far as Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
❄️ Peisey-Vallandry
A wilder, less crowded spot, perfect for a quiet flight between larch forests and gentle ridges. Supervision is personal, often in small groups, for a more intimate experience.
Why rent a chalet in Savoie to enjoy paragliding?
Renting a chalet in Savoie is the best way to enjoy paragliding in optimal conditions. Here is why:
Many chalets are located close to the ski lifts leading to the flight sites. No vehicle needed; everything is done ski-in or by shuttle.
Paragliding, gentle as it may seem in flight, still delivers a shot of adrenaline. There is nothing quite like coming back to a chalet with spa, sauna or fireplace to extend the magic in pure comfort.
Renting a family or group chalet lets you enjoy paragliding together, then share the emotion over a fine dinner or a hot chocolate.
With a partner such as Pointe de Sel, your stay can include the flight booking, shuttle, equipment and even a souvenir video. All you have to do is enjoy the moment.
In short
- Winter paragliding lets you discover the mountain from the sky in a moment of absolute freedom.
- The activity is accessible to everyone from age 10, guided by qualified professionals.
- Les Trois Vallées and Paradiski are among the best winter paragliding spots in France.
- The best moments are the cold, calm days from January to April.
- Renting a chalet in Savoie guarantees an unforgettable stay blending sky, snow and mountain comfort.
