Paragliding
Paragliding in winter: a magical activity to experience in Savoie
Do you dream of flying over snow-capped mountains, floating in the air with a view of pristine peaks? paraglider In winter, flying over the mountains is an unusual and unforgettable activity that is attracting more and more mountain lovers. Whether after a day of skiing or as a main activity, flying over the Alps by paraglider is a moment of pure freedom, between sky and snow.
In the stations of Savoy, and in particular in The 3 Valleys et Paradiski, the activity is accessible to all, including in winter, thanks to ski-on-ski takeoffs. Supervised by a qualified instructor, you will discover the mountain from a unique perspective. And to experience this adventure in the best conditions, nothing beats the rental of a comfortable chalet, between relaxation and the great outdoors.
The origins of paragliding: from the summits to the sky
Le paraglider originated in the 1970s in Haute-Savoie. Aviation and mountain enthusiasts, inspired by parachuting, imagined a wing capable of taking off running from a slope. The concept quickly caught on: light, easy to handle, and without an engine, the paraglider allows fly autonomously from the peaks, following the air currents.
The discipline is evolving rapidly, until it becomes a recognized sport, with its schools, competitions and variations. Today, paragliding is practiced in both summer and winter, with specific adaptations for taking off from the snow or with skis on your feet.
How to practice paragliding in winter?
Contrary to popular belief, paragliding is not just for summer. Winter even offers particularly beautiful flying conditions, with more stable air, snowy landscapes and crystal clear light. Winter paragliding is generally done in tandem flight, supervised by a professional instructor.
🪂 How a paragliding flight in winter works:
- Meet at the starting point (often at the top of a chairlift)
- Quick briefing on the flight schedule and safety instructions
- Passenger equipment : helmet, harness, warm clothing
- Take off on skis : a few meters of sliding, and hey presto, you're in the air!
- Flight of 10 to 20 minutes according to the conditions
- Soft landing, sometimes on a track or an area developed in a resort
No experience is required to take a flight. Everything is handled by the instructor, who adapts the duration, altitude, and sensations to the passenger's level.
An anecdote: the day a skier took flight without wanting to
In Courchevel, an instructor was preparing to take off in a tandem flight from the summit of La Loze with an enthusiastic tourist... but a little too enthusiastic. As the time came to take off, the latter pulled on the sail too early, carrying the instructor who had not yet fastened his harness. Result: a few meters of unbalanced flight before landing in the powder. More of a scare than harm! Since then, the instructor tells the story at each briefing, reminding that the pilot takes off, not the passenger!
The best times to go paragliding in winter
Paragliding is practiced in winter from December to April, depending on weather and snow conditions. Here are the best times:
- January February : clear sky, fresh snow, excellent visibility
- Mars : longer days, soft light, good thermal conditions
- April : beautiful days, pleasant temperatures, often longer flights
✅ In the morning: for pure light and little wind
✅ Early afternoon: milder conditions, longer flights
Professionals adjust schedules every day to ensure the best flight conditions and safety.
Where to go paragliding in Les 3 Vallées?
The domain of 3 Valleys offers several exceptional spots for paragliding in winter, accessible from the main resorts.
❄️ Courchevel
One of the most famous sites. Takeoff is often from the summit of Vizelle or Loze pass, with a breathtaking view of the Vanoise. Paragliding schools offer discovery flights or thrilling flights, sometimes even with acrobatics for the more daring.
❄️ Méribel
Méribel offers flights over the valley, with departure possible from Tougnète ou the Iron Rock. Landing is often near Méribel Village. Perfect for a contemplative flight with view of snow-covered forests and traditional chalets.
Where to go paragliding in Paradiski?
The Domain Paradiski (La Plagne, Les Arcs, Peisey-Vallandry) is also a fabulous playground for paragliding enthusiasts in winter.
❄️ La Plagne
The station has several high altitude take-off areas, notably above Plagne Bellecote with a departure from Roche de Mio or above Plagne Center at the summit of the Grande Rochette. Flying above the snow-covered plateaus of La Plagne is an incredible visual experience, between gentleness and immensity.
❄️ Les Arcs
Flights often depart from the ridges between Les Arcs 1800 and 2000, with a plunging view over the Tarentaise valley. The conditions there are very stable, ideal for long flights, sometimes as far as Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
❄️ Peisey-Vallandry
A wilder and less frequented spot, perfect for a quiet flight, between larch forests and gentle ridgesThe supervision is personalized, often in small groups, for a more intimate experience.
Why rent a chalet in Savoie to enjoy paragliding?
La rental of a chalet in Savoie is the best way to experience paragliding in optimal conditions. Here's why:
Many chalets are located near the lifts leading to the flight sites. No need for a vehicle, everything is done on skis or by shuttle.
Paragliding, even if it is smooth in flight, remains a adrenaline rush. Nothing like returning to a chalet with spa, sauna or fireplace to extend the magic in comfort.
Rent a family or friends chalet allows you to experience paragliding together, then share your emotions around a good dinner or a hot chocolate.
With a service provider like Salt Point, your stay may include the flight booking, shuttle, equipment, And even the souvenir video. All you have to do is enjoy the moment.
In short
- Le paragliding in winter allows you to discover the mountain from the sky, in a moment of absolute freedom.
- The activity is accessible to everyone from 10 years old, supervised by qualified professionals.
- The 3 Valleys et Paradiski are among the best winter paragliding spots in France.
- The best moments are the cold, calm days from January to April.
- Rent a chalet in Savoie, it is to guarantee a unforgettable stay between sky, snow and mountain comfort.
