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Paragliding in Interlaken, Switzerland: If you were to ask someone what superpower they’d like, there’s a good chance the majority of answers will be to either have the power of invisibility or the ability to fly. While being granted the power of either is a far cry, if you have a strong yearning to soar like an eagle than you’re in luck as paragliding is the answer you seek.
Read on to learn how you can grow wings and float on air currents to see all of Interlaken in one amazing view through paragliding in Interlaken, Switzerland (see prices here).
The Location of Paragliding Interlaken
Interlaken is a two hour train ride from Zurich, with the town being surrounded by several jaw dropping mountains and two picturesque lakes. We flew with Paragliding Interlaken, with the stall being on the main road, directly across from the park in which you’ll be landing in.
If you’ve booked online with Get Your Guide then you don’t need to worry about the location of the stall since on the day there is a door to door pick up service.
Preparing For The Flight
I have to admit I was a little nervous, especially when we reached the take off spot. The Paragliding Interlaken take off spot is located up the top of a windy hill where you’re gifted with incredible views before you even take off. The takeoff itself wasn’t too scary, as you’re up in the air before you run out of too much ground beneath you.
To reach the location of the jump you’re chauffeured into a mini bus and driven to a set location on a mountain. The journey to the jump site takes around 15 minutes. You’ll be paragliding in tandem with an instructor who will control everything and make sure the flight goes smoothly.
For safety you’re not allowed to take a DSLR. GoPro’s are allowed, but they must be securely attached to your hand (we were given a tie). You’re not allowed to hold objects in your hand without them being fastened while flying, this also includes GoPro’s, Cell Phones and any other form of camera gear. If you’re wanting photos or video of the experience the instructor will be taking both using a GoPro.
To fly it’s rather simple. The only thing you need to concern yourself with as the passenger, is being able to lightly jog. That’s it. The Paragliding Interlaken instructor takes care of everything.
Though this does mean you need to run downhill at a light pace until you gain lift off. However it’s quite effortless to gain flight, it almost makes me think I could do it on my own. Though I’m not sure how well I’d do once I’m in the air though, ha.
The Experience of Flying With Paragliding Interlaken
This is easily one of the coolest things I’ve done. The experience is surreal. I’m a certified scuba diver, so I’m used to “gliding” underwater (I’m flattering myself). However, the feeling of floating and gliding through the air while looking below to see the miniature structures of the world is a completely different experience.
While flying I found the emotions running though me were a good mix of nervousness and excitement, topped off with a state of awe from incredible scenery below me. It was amazing.
This is more one of those experiences where you can try and read as much about another’s experience, but, it’s really something you need to try yourself. Drifting on air currents and gliding over tall standing trees while being able to view the entire region is simply amazing.
I cannot state how much I enjoyed the experience. If I had the opportunity to do it again, I would do it without a second thought.
It should be noted that the flight is quite smooth. While paragliding you’re sitting in a seat which acts as a harness/hamock, with the seat being quite comfortable to sit and relax in. Your legs are free which means that they dangle through the air, if this concerns you then you could try crossing them slightly, however they will be still in the air to some extent.
Depending on your flying conditions it can vary on how bumpy or smooth the journey is. We paraglided on a relatively clear day in Interlaken, which meant that it was slightly bumpy higher up near the top of the mountain due to the air currents rising, but as you gradually lower your altitude the air becomes a little more stable and offers better, smoother conditions.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous the instructor will offer you the opportunity to do a few tricks to create more of a roller-coaster feeling to the ride.
The Paragliding Interlaken instructor did two paragliding tricks, one which he named ‘The Dolphin’, which sort of moves in the motion of a wave by stopping and starting. The second trick was merely turning rather sharply which created a bit of force, it took me back at first, but it was incredibly fun.
Summary
If you’re in Interlaken than you need to go paragliding! Paragliding in Interlaken Switzerland is one of the best adventure activities you can do in the region. The views were incredible since you’re given a rare glimpse of the city from above, while at the same time you get to enjoy it by doing something different and fun. While I would recommend paragliding in general, paragliding in Switzerland really is something special with so many mountains and lakes around.
Highly recommended, it has been one of my favourite things to do while travelling – period.
Prices begin from CHF150, find out more on their website – http://www.paragliding-interlaken.ch.
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