Paragliding

The Chamonix valley is an ideal place for those wishing to make a first tandem paragliding flight or for pilots wanting to fly in front of the Mont Blanc. In Chamonix, you will find paragliding schools for different flights: discovery, tandem paragliding, initiation, training course…

What are the take-off areas in Chamonix?

The main take off areas in the Chamonix and Mont Blanc valley are

Planpraz (Chamonix) Take the cable car to the Brevent side and stop at the first section at Planpraz.
Plan de l’Aiguille (1st section of the aiguille du Midi cable car)
Index (by Flégère cable car) -> Not FFVL approved
Les Grands Montets (Argentière)
Merlet (Les Houches)
Prarion (Les Houches)
Bellevue (Les Houches)
Plaine Joux (Passy)

Bois du Bouchet landing area in Chamonix
The landing area at Bois du Bouchet is the “official” landing area of Chamonix.

Access : The landing area is located at the exit of the town. Coming from the town centre, you have to pass the Richard Bozon sports centre and take the direction of Argentière. The course is 500 metres on the left.
Level: From beginner (with supervision) to advanced paraglider.
Limitations: In winter, this field is closed because a cross-country ski track is built in the Bouchet wood. This area is also used by the commune to organise sporting or cultural events (Musilac Mont Blanc), so landing on this area is sometimes limited or forbidden.
When the large area is closed, it is possible to land on the Delta field. Beware, this link is more technical as the area is bordered by trees and turbulence can occur in the breeze.

Frequently asked questions about paragliding in Chamonix

Is it possible to paraglide in winter in Chamonix?

From spring to winter, it is possible to fly in Chamonix in all seasons. Of course, it will be possible to paraglide if the weather conditions are good. During the ski season, it is also possible to practice speed riding.

Where should I fly if the weather is windy?
Be careful if the wind is blowing at more than 20 km/h at altitude, it is advisable to take off from areas sheltered from the wind, like Plaine Joux.

Is it possible to practice speed riding in Chamonix?
Speed riding is allowed in Chamonix. However, the practice of speed riding is regulated by the municipal decree N°1141/2008. It is possible to speed ride in the Balme – Le Tour ski area.

Winter paragliding in Chamonix

When visibility is good, it is possible to fly in winter. Some paragliding schools are open all year round.

For the amateur, it is also possible to book speed-riding courses in Chamonix. This discipline combines the thrill of skiing with the adrenaline of paragliding.