Paragliding in Interlaken: My Personal Experience and Review of Swiss Alps Adventure
Ever since I first saw pictures of the Swiss Alps, and after watching the K-Drama, Crash Landing On You, I knew I had to experience Switzerland firsthand. What better way to do so than by paragliding in Interlaken, Switzerland's adventure capital? In this blog post, I'll share my experience with paragliding in Interlaken, provide essential information, and inspire you to also take on the same adventure.
Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, is known for its stunning landscapes and endless outdoor activities. Paragliding in Interlaken was a spontaneous decision during my Swiss journey, but the idea captivated me so much that I simply had to embrace the opportunity.
What you should know about paragliding in Interlaken
Before paragliding in Interlaken, it's important to be well-informed and prepared. Here are some key points to keep in mind as you plan your thrilling escapade in the Swiss skies:
- Choose a reputable company: Ensure that you book your paragliding experience with a reputable and licensed company. Look for reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of service and safety standards provided.
- Be prepared for weather-dependent scheduling: Remember that paragliding is heavily influenced by weather conditions, and your flight might be rescheduled or postponed based on the forecast. Be flexible with your plans and keep an open communication line with your chosen company.
- Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable, warm, and weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are recommended to adapt to changing temperatures at different altitudes. Remember that some companies provide boots, jackets, and gloves, but it's always best to come prepared.
- Trust your pilot: Certified paragliding pilots have extensive experience and training, ensuring your safety during the flight. Trust their judgment and follow their instructions to make the most of your experience.
- Understand the costs: Paragliding in Interlaken can range in price depending on the company, package, and time of year. Research beforehand to find an option that suits your budget and preferences.
- Capture the memories: Most companies offer photo and video packages to document your adventure. I highly recommend paying extra for this so you can relive your paragliding experience and share it with friends and family.
- Embrace the adventure: Paragliding in Interlaken is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. This activity takes 75 to 90 minutes, including a 10 to 20-minute flight time.
Cost of paragliding in Interlaken
The cost of paragliding in Interlaken varies, depending on the package and season, but expect to pay around CHF 160 - 180 per person.
In addition to the base cost, consider purchasing photos and videos from your flight. Trust me, you'll want to relive the experience and share it with friends and family! The cost for the photos and videos is usually CHF 40 - 50.
I booked with AlpinAir Paragliding and paid CHF 160 with an additional CHF 40 for the photos and videos.
Best time to go paragliding in Interlaken
While paragliding in Interlaken is available year-round, the best time to go is summer! Primarily due to favorable weather conditions. With more predictable weather, warmer temperatures, and longer daylight hours, summer offers an ideal environment for this activity.
However, always check the weather forecast and be prepared for possible cancellations due to unfavorable conditions. Safety should always be a priority, and experienced pilots know when it's best to reschedule.
Our initial plan was to take off at 7:30 AM, but due to rain the night before and lingering clouds the next morning, we had to reschedule to 5:30 PM. Though we originally intended to launch from a higher point, the cloud cover necessitated starting from a lower spot.
Despite these changes, our paragliding experience turned out to be a spectacular success and one of my favorite memories of the trip!
You can book your paragliding adventure now to reserve a spot!
Meeting the pilot and ascending the mountains
My friend and I signed up for paragliding. On the day of the flight, we were picked up at a selected pick-up point and drove 20 minutes to Beatenberg-Amisbühl, had a short walk, and arrived at the takeoff area.
We booked withAlpinAir Paraglidingand the pilots were friendly, professional, and eager to share their passion for paragliding. After a brief introduction and safety overview, we set off for the jump site.
As we climbed the mountain, the scenery of Interlaken, the lakes, and the Swiss Alps revealed itself. I could feel the excitement building, and the anticipation was palpable.
Preparation before takeoff
In light of the muddy conditions on the mountain, AlpinAir Paragliding was happy to provide us with boots!
You can also borrow jackets and gloves for added warmth and protection during the flight. Since the temperature can drop significantly at higher altitudes, these extra layers proved invaluable in maintaining my comfort throughout the journey.
Of course, safety is important when paragliding, and the company provided helmets for all participants.
My first paragliding experience
Standing at the jump-off point, my heart raced as my pilot, Domi, double-checked our equipment. With a deep breath, we began our run toward the edge. In that exhilarating moment, my feet left the ground, and I soared into the sky!
As we took the flight, I realized that paragliding wasn't as frightening as I had initially imagined. Seated in a comfortable harness (often referred to as a "paragliding pod" or "paragliding seat"), I felt secure and relaxed, allowing me to fully enjoy the experience.
The feeling of paragliding in Interlaken is indescribable. The adrenaline rush was incredible, but the serenity I felt while gliding through the air was unparalleled.
During the flight, Domi asked if I was up for a more thrilling "roller coaster" experience. Eager to make the most of this adventure, I enthusiastically agreed! What followed was a series of exhilarating maneuvers, including steep turns, spirals, and wingovers, that made my heart race and left me breathless with excitement. These high-energy stunts added an extra dimension to my paragliding experience.
The overall experience remained surprisingly calm and serene. Paragliding in Interlaken truly offers the best of both worlds - an adrenaline-fueled adventure and an escape into the skies above one of the world's most beautiful locations.
How safe is paragliding in Switzerland
Safety was my primary concern, but I quickly learned that Switzerland has strict regulations and high standards for paragliding. My pilot was highly skilled and experienced, and the equipment was well-maintained and up-to-date.
Paragliding in Interlaken was undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences of my life. If you ever have the opportunity to visit Interlaken, I highly encourage you to try paragliding!
Other activities to do in Switzerland
Canyon Swing in Grindelwald
Get set for an adrenaline-packed experience in Grindelwald, where you'll plunge 90 meters at a breathtaking speed of 120 km per hour. Nestled in the Swiss Alps, this thrilling freefall between canyon walls promises to be a heart-racing adventure.
Bungee Jump in Interlaken
Experience the thrill of a lifetime as you take a leap of faith with a bungee jump in the picturesque Simmental Valley. Imagine soaring through the crisp mountain air, jumping from a gondola, and plunging towards the shimmering surface of a pristine mountain lake. It's an adventure that truly takes your breath away.
