Paragliding at Jounieh

Few places let you launch from a mountainside and glide over a Mediterranean bay with snow-capped peaks behind you, and the coast near Jounieh is one of them. Tandem paragliding here takes you off from the hills above the bay and down over the coastline, the harbour and the sea. A qualified pilot handles the flying and the equipment, so no experience is needed. You simply run a few steps, feel the wing lift, and then settle into a seat to enjoy the view. Flights usually last ten to twenty minutes, and landing is usually on a beach or open ground by the water. The views are sensational. The curve of the bay, the white statue of Our Lady of Lebanon on its hill, the cluster of coastal towns and the Mount Lebanon range stretch in every direction. In clear conditions you can see far down the coast toward Beirut. The experience is a highlight for adventurous visitors, especially couples and friends.

The activity linked from this page is a tandem paragliding flight over Jounieh. Operators supply helmets and harnesses, give a safety briefing, and take you to the launch site by vehicle. Total time for the experience is usually around two hours including transport and preparation, though the flight itself is short. Cameras and action cams can be attached in some cases, and photographers on the ground may also be available.

Weather is the deciding factor. Flights depend on wind direction and strength, visibility and thermals, and operators will cancel or reschedule if conditions are unsafe. Spring and autumn offer many good days, while summer afternoons can be hazy. Be flexible with your dates and avoid booking it on the last day of your trip. Tell the operator about health conditions such as heart problems, back trouble or pregnancy, and respect weight limits, which are set for safety.

Wear comfortable clothing, closed shoes and sunglasses, and bring a light jacket for the breeze at altitude. There is no need to be athletic, although you should be able to run a few steps at takeoff. Children may fly if they meet age and weight requirements, so ask. The experience pairs well with a visit to Harissa and a seafood lunch in Jounieh, so you can see the same landscape from the ground and from the air.

For many visitors it is the most exciting activity in Lebanon, and it shows the country's geography in a unique way: sea, city and mountain within a single glance. Choose a reputable operator, follow instructions closely, and enjoy the quiet whisper of the wind in the wing as you drift above the bay.

Eat lightly before you fly, drink water, and avoid heavy meals, especially if you tend to feel motion sickness. Follow the pilot's instructions on launch and landing exactly, because the technique is simple but the timing matters. Afterwards, a cold drink at a seafront cafe is a perfect way to celebrate.