Paragliding in Méribel : a tandem flight above the 3 Valleys

Some activities get the adrenaline going… and one literally takes off : paragliding.
In Méribel, a tandem flight means a few minutes suspended above the Allues Valley, with the
peaks of the 3 Valleys as far as the eye can see and the silence of altitude as your only soundtrack.

The tandem flight, how it works

A paragliding first flight is done in tandem : you sit in a
comfortable harness at the front, and your state-qualified instructor pilots behind you.
You have nothing to know or carry : they handle take-off, the flight and landing. A few steps to launch
from the slope, and the wing lifts you gently. No experience is needed : it’s one of the most
accessible ways to fly.

Méribel, a flying spot in the 3 Valleys

Set in the middle of the 3 Valleys, the Allues Valley offers open
slopes, generous relief and lifting air currents that make it an ideal playground for free flight in summer.
From the heights of Méribel, the panorama takes in spruce forests, alpine pastures, still-snowy ridges and,
on a clear day, the great peaks of the Tarentaise.

At Takamaka Méribel, creators of emotions since 1994, paragliding is one of the “earth
& air” must-dos of the summer season, alongside via ferrata and mountain biking.

🪂 Good to know : flying depends on the weather and the air conditions. If conditions
are unfavourable, the slot is postponed : safety always comes before the schedule.

Who is it for ? (and what about fear of heights ?)

Good news : in paragliding you usually don’t feel vertigo. Because you never touch the
ground and nothing physically links you to the void, the brain doesn’t trigger the vertigo you’d feel on a
ladder or a balcony. Most people are surprised by how calm the flight is.

  • The discovery flight — calm and contemplative, to enjoy the
    scenery gently. Perfect for a first time or with family.
  • The thrill flight — with a few manoeuvres (wingovers, steep
    turns) for those who want adrenaline.

The instructor always adapts the flight to your wishes : just say whether you prefer to glide quietly
or get your stomach in knots.

How a flight unfolds

The meeting time is set according to the day’s conditions. After a short briefing, you reach the take-off
area : the instructor fits the harness, checks the gear, then a few steps are enough to launch. The
flight usually lasts 15 to 25 minutes depending on the formula and the air, before a
gentle landing in the valley. A video or photos can often be offered as an option to keep a
memory of the big leap.

Pair the flight with water & mountains

Paragliding pairs beautifully with the rest of our summer programme. The winning combo ? Water in the
morning, sky in the afternoon :

The full programme is detailed on our
summer activities in Méribel page.

Paragliding for seminars, parties & friends

Watching your colleagues or friends take off one after another is a great shared moment. Paragliding fits
into :

To explore other playgrounds, head to the
Takamaka Tarentaise hub
and the sister resort of La Plagne.

Practical info & booking

  • Season : mainly summer, depending on the weather and air conditions.
  • Flight time : around 15 to 25 minutes depending on the formula.
  • Supervision : state-qualified tandem pilot, equipment provided.
  • Bring : clothing suited to altitude, closed walking shoes, and a smile.

Ready to take flight ?
Book your tandem paragliding flight and plan your day of activities in Méribel.
Request a quote →

Frequently asked questions

Do I need experience for a paragliding flight in Méribel ?

None. The flight is in tandem with a qualified instructor who handles take-off,
piloting and landing. All you do is enjoy it.

Do you feel vertigo when paragliding ?

Usually not : with no contact with the ground, the brain doesn’t trigger the
sensation of vertigo. Most participants are surprised by how calm the flight is.

How long does the flight last ?

Generally 15 to 25 minutes depending on the chosen formula and the day’s air conditions.

What happens if the weather is bad ?

The flight is postponed to a favourable slot. The decision rests with the
instructor : safety always comes before the schedule.