Where can you go paragliding in the Verdon Gorges?

Paragliding in the Verdon Gorges: Everything You Need to Know

Paragliding is one of the activities to try in the Verdon. What makes paragliding unique is the takeoff, which happens from a high point: a mountain, a dune, or a cliff.

With their high cliffs and the Pre-Alpine mountain ranges that surround them, the Verdon Gorges are particularly well-suited for paragliding—especially since the breathtaking views and the sense of freedom take precedence over the pursuit of adrenaline in this sport.

Unlike skydiving, paragliding is a recreational activity that’s accessible to everyone—it doesn’t necessarily require good physical condition and is suitable for children.

In a tandem flight, anyone who wants to experience the thrill of flight and the great outdoors can take off on a paraglider: children, seniors, and people with limited mobility. The only restrictions that may apply are weight limits (minimum and maximum) due to balance and control of the wing.

It’s also easy to learn how to paraglide on your own in the Verdon Gorge, since no pilot’s license or permit is required. Paragliding is also known to be very well tolerated by people who are usually prone to vertigo.
Both takeoff and flight are gentle and relaxing.

First-Time Paragliding Flights in the Verdon

Discover the Verdon Gorges from a unique and privileged vantage point with a paragliding introductory flight! Introductory flights are conducted in tandem with an instructor who will take you up into the air under the wing of a two-seater paraglider, allowing you to experience all the thrills of the flight—usually lasting about 20 minutes. No technical knowledge or athletic ability is required on your part: just let yourself be carried above the surreal landscape of the Verdon Gorges.

There are several types of introductory flights: 20-minute discovery flights—classic and gentle—longer options, as well as introductory flights that include a technical introduction to flying.
Finally, “thrill-seeking” introductory flights are those during which the pilot will perform aerobatic maneuvers and jumps during the flight—enough to get the adrenaline pumping for those seeking the ultimate thrill. After your introductory flight, you might want to take more paragliding flights in the Verdon Gorges or enroll in a beginner’s course.
Both beginner and advanced training courses take place over several days: a unique and unforgettable themed getaway idea in the Verdon while camping!

Book your first paragliding experience in the Verdon Gorges

Roc N’Vol: A French paragliding school, Roc N’Vol offers introductory flights and paragliding courses, mountain flying with mini-wings, and trips to explore flying destinations around the world. Two takeoff sites are available for introductory flights in the Verdon Gorges: Aiguines and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Flights take place over the gorges and Lake Sainte-Croix. The price is 100 euros for a 20- to 30-minute introductory flight and 150 euros for a 45-minute to 1-hour adventure flight.
Verdon Passion Parapente: a paragliding school and club in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Verdon Passion offers tandem introductory flights, discovery days, and beginner paragliding courses in the Verdon Gorge. Takeoff is from the Montdenier site. The 20-minute tandem discovery flight costs 90 euros per person, with an additional 20 euros to take home a video of the flight on an SD card. The one-hour tandem flight costs 150 euros per person, and the discovery day ranges from 160 to 220 euros depending on the package (training session on the training slope + 20-minute or one-hour flight).

Paragliding Spots in the Verdon

There are two must-visit launch sites for paragliding in the Verdon Gorge:

The Moustiers-Sainte-Marie viewpoint is located north of Lake Sainte-Croix and offers a view over the sea of lavandin on the Valensole Plateau.

The Aiguines launch site, near Bauduen, is the starting point for a magical flight over the Grand Canyon du Verdon, all the way to Lake Sainte-Croix.

Tips Before Your Paragliding Session

When you book a tandem flight, the club provides all the necessary equipment.
However, it is important that you dress appropriately to get the most out of your experience.
In the middle of summer, it will be hot even at high altitudes, and you’ll be comfortable in very light, loose-fitting clothing.
If the weather isn’t favorable—or at the beginning or end of the season—a fleece jacket and/or a windbreaker will likely be necessary.
As for footwear, be sure to bring at least a pair of sneakers—and ideally hiking boots.
Also, be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a neck gaiter, and a pair of lightweight gloves.

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