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The Best La Plagne Parapenting Companies: Soar Above the Slopes
I’ve lived in La Plagne for nearly 20 winters, and honestly, parapenting – or paragliding – was the first non-skiing activity I had to try out! Whether you're a first-timer or a La Plagne veteran, flying above the slopes can add an extra layer of excitement to your winter holiday. It’s a completely different view of the ski resort, and I loved seeing the pistes I normally ski from such heights!
In this La Plagne travel guide, I'll take you on a journey through the skies, exploring the world of La Plagne parapenting, what you can expect and where you can leap into the La Plagne skies!
What is Parapenting?
Imagine the feeling of floating through the crisp mountain air, surrounded by panoramic views of snow-covered peaks – that's parapenting. Known as paragliding, in English, around La Plagne, it’s just referred to as parapenting. This adventure sport involves launching off from elevated points, i.e., the top of the mountain!
But don’t worry! You are securely harnessed to an instructor and the parachute-like wing. This style of flight is called a tandem flight, allowing even beginners to enjoy the thrill under the guidance of a certified instructor. The only prerequisites are a sense of adventure and a desire to witness the breathtaking beauty of La Plagne from the sky.
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Who can do parapenting in La Plagne?
Parapenting is a thrilling and fun activity suitable for a wide range of ages and fitness levels. Most of the La Plagne parapenting companies start discovery flights from the age of 5 and upwards! So whether you're a family with young children or a group of adventurous adults, La Plagne welcomes all those seeking a new and memorable experience.
Parapenting is also open to skiers and non-skiers. If you are a skier, then you can take off from your skis, or if you are a non-skier or beginner skier, you can run to take off.
Although this big part of the parapent experience is high-adrenaline as you ski or run off the mountain peak, once you are floating or flying in the air, it’s so peaceful! A really quiet and relaxing experience – but it is also freezing! Even on the sunniest days, I would always recommend wearing a face buff!
My La Plagne Parapenting Experience
I had the chance to take off from the top of Grande Rochette, with Bruno, one of the local instructors, guiding me through the entire experience. Here’s what you can expect if you’re up for trying it yourself.
First off, getting kitted up is quick and straightforward. Bruno helped me into a harness that fits snugly, but comfortably. I was wearing my usual ski gear, so there was no need to change — just make sure you’re layered up and warm. The equipment is simple: the harness feels like a supportive seat, and the parachute, though massive when laid out, doesn’t feel bulky once you’re strapped in.
Before take-off, Bruno went through the safety instructions, which, honestly, are much easier to follow than you might think. He walked me through how to run with him during take-off, but that’s about all you have to do — the rest is up to the wind and your guide!
Standing at the top of Grande Rochette is unreal in itself, with 360° views of the Alps, but knowing you’re about to float down into the valley adds a whole other layer of excitement. When the wind picked up just right, Bruno gave the word, and we ran a few steps towards the edge. In what felt like seconds, the parachute lifted us into the air, and suddenly, you’re flying!
The sensation is so peaceful. Once you're airborne, it’s smooth and quiet, with only the sound of the wind and the occasional commentary from Bruno in your ear. You’ll have a moment to take in just how small everything looks beneath you. The ski pistes, chalets, and skiers all shrink down as you soar over them. If you’re lucky and the thermals are strong, you’ll feel the parachute lift even higher, giving you more time to take in the stunning views of Mont Blanc in the distance.
Bruno’s been flying these routes for years, so you feel completely safe as he guides you down. He even lets you take the controls for a bit if you’re feeling adventurous! Gliding over the snow-covered slopes of La Plagne is an experience I’ll never forget — the mix of adrenaline and total serenity is just amazing.
As we approached Plagne Centre for the landing, Bruno gave me a quick briefing on how to position myself. The landing itself was surprisingly gentle. You just lift your legs slightly and touch down softly on the snow — no dramatic bumps or jolts, just a smooth finish to an unforgettable flight.
Honestly, if you’re in La Plagne and want to try something totally different from skiing, I can’t recommend parapenting enough. It’s an experience that gives you a whole new perspective on the mountains, quite literally! And with someone like Bruno leading the way, you’re in safe hands the entire time.
Where Does La Plagne parapenting take off from?
La Plagne offers several takeoff points for parapenting, each providing a unique perspective of the surrounding mountains. The main takeoff points are:
- Grande Rochette – Above Plagne Centre
- Roche de Mio – Above Belle Plagne
In the summer, the La Plagne parapenting takes off from Les Charmettes, which is down towards hairpin 10 on the road up to La Plagne.
In winter, there are several companies taking off from both of these mountain peaks. And on a good weather day, it’s a great spot to head up to and watch the parapenter’s taking off.
How Long Does Parapenting Take?
The length of your flight depends on which flight you book from discovery flights that are about 15 minutes long to hour-long adventures. You also need to take into consideration the weather conditions. The parapents cannot fly on bad weather days, so if it is snowing or too windy, your flight could be cancelled. My top tip is to check the weather forecast when you are booking and pick a reliable day and time.
How Much Does Parapenting Cost?
Prices for tandem flights in La Plagne vary depending on the duration of the flight and the company you choose. On average, you can expect to pay from 30€ for a 15-minute discovery flight and then between £80 to £150 for a longer, panoramic flight. While it might seem like a splurge, the memories created during this unique adventure are priceless. A lot of the companies also offer professional photos and/or videos that they can shoot whilst you are flying!
What to wear to go parapenting
Parapenting is an incredible way to experience the mountains, but it’s essential to be well-prepared for the cold since you’ll be up high, and the wind chill can get intense. You want to be warm without feeling weighed down by bulky gear, as mobility is key. Here's what I recommend:
- Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking thermal top and leggings. You'll need something snug and warm, like merino wool or synthetics, to keep sweat off your skin and ensure you stay dry.
- Mid Layer: A lightweight, insulated jacket or fleece is perfect. It’s all about warmth without too much bulk so that you're free to move when setting up your gear or in the harness.
- Outer Layer: Your jacket and trousers should be both windproof and waterproof. You’ll be high up where the wind can be brutal, and staying dry is just as important if you land in snow or damp areas.
- Gloves: Opt for insulated, windproof gloves that allow for dexterity. You’ll need to grip your handles comfortably, so avoid anything too thick or stiff.
- Footwear: Solid, waterproof boots with good grip are essential, especially for the take-off and landing spots, which can be icy or snowy. Make sure your boots give you stability without being too heavy.
- Headwear: Most parapenting helmets are ventilated, so wear a thin, moisture-wicking beanie underneath to keep your head warm without interfering with the helmet fit.
- Sunglasses or Goggles: You’ll want eye protection, as the glare from the snow and the sun at high altitude can be intense. Polarised sunglasses or ski goggles are great options to keep your vision clear and your eyes protected from the wind.
- Suncream: You might be in a ski resort but the sun is strong. Make sure you've got a good Alpine suncream on before you take off.
Remember, you'll feel the chill more when you're soaring through the air, so it’s better to over-layer slightly and be able to remove a mid layer than to be caught freezing mid-flight!
Parapenting Companies in La Plagne
To make your parapenting dreams a reality, here's a list of reputable companies in La Plagne that offer this thrilling experience:
- Air La Plagne: Taking off from Grande Rochette. Head to their website to book or call +33 7 83 78 37 90
- Plagn’Air: Taking off from Grande Rochette. Head to their website to book or call +33 6 15 06 09 31
- El Pro Paragliding: Taking off from Grande Rochette and Roche de Mio. Head to their website to book or call +33 (0) 4 79 09 11 62
That’s La Plagne & the best parapenting in La Plagne
Whether you're a family with little ones in tow or a group of friends seeking a new thrill, don't miss the opportunity to soar above the slopes with La Plagne parapenting. The memories you create in the sky will undoubtedly become the highlight of your winter getaway.
And if you're looking for other exhilarating experiences, I recommend the La Plagne Super Tyro zipline and the Colorado Super Luge.
See you on/above the slopes!
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