Somewhere in the middle of a hardcore adventurous rush and insouciant leisure vacation lies a sweet spot called a recreational getaway. Aerial sports are the closest phenomenon known to humankind that offers a divine sky-high experience. Paragliding is one of the best ways to witness a picturesque destination and is often described as the purest and simplest form of aviation.
We have curated a consolidated list of the most scenic places around the world where paragliding is more than just a sport, a ritual.
1. Bir Billing, Himachal Pradesh, India
In 2015, Bir, a village settled in the Joginder Nagar Valley in Himachal Pradesh, hosted its first paragliding world cup. The news had spread like wildfire and now there is no going back from the soaring elevation of 2,400 meters. From local tourists to international adventure sports aficionados, Bir has become one of the most beautiful and serene places in the world for paragliding.
2. Chamonix, France
Located on the North side summit of Mont Blanc, Chamonix is one of the oldest ski resorts in France and it is widely known as the gateway to European cascades. Here paragliding is locally called parapenting and so, foreigners from around the globe travel to gain one of the most surreal aerial sports experiences.
3. Tegelberg, Germany
Some places are like people, they age gracefully and carve its history on stone. Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany is one such fine example of an unspoken historic and adventurous immersion. The castle is located 2 km from mount Tegelberg which is known as a popular paragliding area. Fly over the castle and get an epic bird’s eye shot of its splendid vistas.
4. Ölüdeniz, Fethiye, Turkey
Turkey comes across as a destination where all the Middle-eastern fantasy anecdotes come to life. From grand mosques and bazaars of traditional paraphernalia to surreal beauty of Cappadocia and ancient thermal pools of Pamukkale, every location is otherworldly. Ölüdeniz is unmatched in every sense of an ideal destination. It’s a pebble beach known for paragliding opportunities that offer exceptional views.
5. Coronet Peak, Queenstown, New Zealand
Queenstown is New Zealand’s gold mine for tourism and there is a perfect reason why it is called the ‘’global adventure capital’’ of the world. This resort town is not only a breath-taking destination but it is also every adventurist’s ultimate playground. The town boasted 220 adventure tourism activities in 2012 such as skiing, ski diving, mountain biking and paragliding among many others. Put your ballsy shoes on and brace yourselves for a thrilling journey.
6. Dune OF Pilat, Arcachon Bay, France
France has too many exotic places to explore and iconic landmarks to add to your dreamy destinations list. From cobbled-street countryside towns to its swanky fashion streets where the code of conduct begins with high-end designers, France reeks of romance in every sense of the word. On your next trip to France, one of the best (and underrated) things to do here is to witness Dune of Pilat from the sky. Being the tallest sand dune in Europe, Dune of Pilat is a foredune that runs parallel to a shoreline.
7. Wengen, Canton of Bern, Switzerland
If I had a buck for every time someone told me how you don’t need money to travel the world, I’d be packing my bags and traveling to this affluent resort village in Switzerland. Located in the canton of Bern, getting lost here is a dream to never be found again. But luxury travel is not the only take away at this tranquil village. Fly high over the sprawling landscape and satiate your appetite for adventure.
8. Bazaruto Archipelago, Mozambique
Sensational beaches and flourishing flora and fauna with scenic backdrops sound like utopia. There are abundant locations in the world still untouched by humankind waiting to be explored. Bazaruto archipelago in Mozambique is one of those places. This group of six islands is now deemed as the perfect place for paragliding.
9. Julian Alps, Slovenia
Being one of the eight Alpine countries, Slovenia shares the benefit of being on the foot of the most extensive mountain range in Europe. Due to this, Slovenia’s territory is mostly mountainous and its geographic is a treat to the eyes. Get your paraglider friends together and plan an adventurous odyssey.
10. Dolomites, Italy
Another stunning adventure destination for people who crave adrenaline rush is Dolomites range in North-eastern Italy. Back in 1887, free climbing was declared a tradition here and soon followed adventurous activities galore that lured people from around the globe. Renowned for skiing, you must also add paragliding to the list.
Get high on adventure on your next trip! Happy traveling!
