Tandem paragliding is the signature adventure of Interlaken, and the town's setting explains why. Ridges rise straight from the valley floor, the thermals are good and the two lakes make a spectacular backdrop. A pilot straps you into a harness beside him or her, you run a few steps off a slope, and the wing lifts you away. The flight lasts about fifteen to thirty minutes depending on the conditions and operator, and the landing is often on or near the Höhematte park in the middle of town, which the Switzerland Tourism page names as a landing option. No experience is needed, since the pilot does all the flying, and you only need to run when told. The view takes in Lake Thun, Lake Brienz, the town and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau on a clear day.
Operators in Interlaken fly through most of the year when conditions allow, and November has some of the clearest air of the season, although the days are shorter and cold. Rain, low cloud and strong wind cancel flights, so book a day with flexibility and expect the operator to confirm on the morning.
The ticket page lists a paragliding flight of about one hour and fifteen minutes in total, which includes transport to the launch site, briefing and kit. Typical flights run from a launch such as Beatenberg above Lake Thun, and you are driven to the top by minibus or lift.
What to expect is a short briefing, a harness and helmet, a run and then a calm glide. Many people are surprised by how quiet and smooth it feels, and by how little effort is required. Dress warmly in layers, because the air at altitude is cold even on a sunny day, and wear sturdy shoes.
Gloves are a good idea in November. Photos and video packages are usually sold separately, and some pilots carry a camera on a stick. Weight and age limits apply, so check the limits when you book, and ask about any medical restrictions.
If the weather cancels your flight, most operators offer to reschedule or refund, but check the terms. Booking for the first day of a stay leaves room to try again later in the trip. Flights can be paired with a stroll through town to the Höhematte, where you may see other pilots landing, and with Harder Kulm for the same view from a safe seat. Paragliding is not for those afraid of heights, but most people who try it call it the highlight of their trip.
What to expect
The experience
A tandem flight with a licensed pilot: transport to the launch site, a short briefing, a few running steps and a glide of around fifteen to thirty minutes.
Best time
A clear, calm day, often morning or midday, with the operator confirming on the day.
How long
About an hour and a quarter in total including transport and briefing, with a flight of around twenty minutes.
Tips
Dress in warm layers and gloves, check weight and age limits, and book early in your stay in case weather cancels a flight.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Adventurous visitors who want a once-in-a-trip experience with no training.
- Families
- There are age and weight limits, so check them; the activity suits teenagers and adults rather than small children.
- Couples
- Book flights together and meet on the Höhematte afterwards with a coffee.
- Pair with
- Harder Kulm, the Höhematte and a lake cruise.
- Time needed
- Allow a half day in case of weather delays.
Good questions
Do I need experience to paraglide?+
No. In a tandem flight the pilot does all the flying, and you only need to run a few steps at launch and landing.
Does paragliding run in November?+
Operators fly through much of the year when conditions allow, and autumn air is often clear, but rain, low cloud and wind cancel flights. Confirm with the operator on the day.
Where do you land?+
Landing sites vary by operator and wind, and the Höhematte park in the middle of Interlaken is a well-known landing area.
How long is the flight?+
The glide usually lasts about fifteen to thirty minutes, and the whole experience takes more than an hour with transport and briefing.
What should I wear?+
Layers, sturdy shoes and gloves, because it is cold at altitude. Operators supply the harness and helmet.
