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How to prepare for your first tandem paragliding flight: equipment, clothing and tips
Let’s go digging for information!
TIP 1: CHOOSE THE RIGHT SITE AND THE RIGHT PILOT
In France, all paragliding schools and organisations offering tandem flights are run by certified professionals. You can take to the skies with confidence, knowing you’re in expert hands. That said, keep your eyes open: if your first encounter with the instructor or their website doesn’t get you excited, there’s a good chance the experience will be about as thrilling as a Monday morning without coffee! What’s more, some flying sites stand out for their enchanting scenery and more exceptional conditions than others.
Choose between flying by the sea, where the marine breeze lifts you as you glide alongside the cliffs, or venturing into the mountains or high mountains, with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and beautiful alpine meadows. Each location offers a unique experience, making your adventure even more unforgettable.
At Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: spectacular sea views and the majestic snow-capped mountains of the Mercantour—a feast for the eyes!
Azur Parapente has been based in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin since 1996 for good reason: specialist media often rank this site among the ten best paragliding spots in Europe. The scenery, with the sea on one side and snow-capped mountains on the other, is breathtaking. What’s more, the winter weather here is particularly good for paragliding, with plenty of sunshine and little wind.
What's more, the meeting point is close to Cap-Martin Roquebrune train station, making it easy to arrive by train.
But what if you’re planning a mountain holiday and want to experience the unforgettable thrill of flying over France’s highest peaks? Our partner ParagliDream, friends Juliette and Nico, chose to set up in Chamonix for the summer for a very specific reason: although there’s no sea here, you can admire high-mountain scenery with peaks over 4,000 metres high!
Make sure you dress warmly!
TIP 2: CHOOSE YOUR CLOTHING CAREFULLY
Choosing the right clothing is essential to making the most of your flight. We recommend wearing trainers, comfortable trousers and a long-sleeved top.
The thickness and number of layers you’ll need depend on the season and the altitude at take-off. In flight, you’ll be exposed to winds of around 35 km/h, so it’s a good idea to wear enough layers to stay warm. It’s much easier to take a layer off if you get too hot than to add one once you’re airborne—which, of course, is impossible.
The day before your appointment, we’ll contact you to discuss the forecast and offer some clothing recommendations. We generally suggest dressing for the season, including a windbreaker of a weight suited to the weather. Don’t be fooled by the photos: our pilots fly in shorts all year round.
In short, it’s best to dress a little too warmly and remove a layer before take-off than to risk getting cold.
Expert tip: don’t forget to protect yourself from the sun by bringing sunglasses and sunscreen.
Eat lightly before your flight!
TIP 3: PRONE TO MOTION SICKNESS?
A helpful tip that’s often overlooked: if you’re prone to motion sickness (in a car, boat, plane, etc.), this is for you! As a passenger, it can be difficult to anticipate paragliding movements because of changing air currents.
To reduce the risks, choose early morning or evening flights, when the air is more stable. Be sure to mention this when booking! Also, avoid flying on an empty stomach or after a very heavy meal, as this could affect your comfort. Instead, opt for a light, balanced meal—your body will thank you.
For those who are more sensitive, taking an anti-nausea medication can help reduce the risk of nausea.
Expert tip: if you do feel unwell during the flight, let your pilot know. They can use techniques to ease your discomfort and help you make the most of the experience.
Smile, you’re being filmed!
TIP 4: KEEP AN UNFORGETTABLE MEMORY!
Your tandem paragliding flight is a memorable experience you’ll surely want to relive or share. Most paragliding schools offer to record your flight using a camera attached to a telescopic pole. That way, you can relive every magical moment of your adventure in high quality with an action camera such as a GoPro.
At the end of your flight, you’ll receive either a memory card containing all your photos and videos, or the files transferred directly to your mobile phone, so you can share them instantly with your loved ones.
We’ll take care of you!
TIP 5: RELAX, EVERYTHING WILL BE FINE
Remember, for your first paragliding flight in France, you’re in the hands of a pro who has more flight hours than some people spend watching TV shows! A few nerves at take-off are normal—after all, taking off is a bit like jumping into the void with style. But once you’re up in the air, that tension will evaporate like a fluffy cloud, and you’ll feel as light as a feather.
So sit back, open your eyes wide and savour every second of this incredible experience. The view will take your breath away, like a masterpiece that only paragliding can offer. Don’t miss a moment of this enchanting spectacle!
Celebrate a special occasion with a tandem paragliding flight!
A paragliding flight: an unforgettable hen party or birthday idea!
With its breathtaking views and enviable sunshine, the Côte d'Azur is the perfect setting for a celebration to remember. Whether it’s a hen party or an unforgettable birthday, a paragliding flight is the perfect way to get your fill of adrenaline and make lasting memories! Ready to make your celebration unforgettable? Let us give you a few ideas!
Why choose paragliding for your celebration? Paragliding is a bit like an emotional roller coaster! Flying above the wonders of the French Riviera is a rush of happiness, thrills and shared moments. It’s the kind of memory you’ll never forget—perfect for celebrating life’s milestones in style.
You’re going to have a great time!
IDEAS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE HEN OR STAG PARTY
Fly together with Azur Parapente! Imagine soaring through the sky with your friends, three at a time, while admiring the beauty of the Mediterranean.
At Azur Parapente, we can welcome groups of up to 15 for a day full of smiles and thrills. After your flight, why not enjoy a picnic together on Golf Bleu beach and put your fear of heights behind you?
Land on the beach, with a guard of honour to welcome the bride-to-be! A balloon arch or a red carpet? Our pilots are ready to make your most original ideas come true on this special day.
There's no better way to capture your day than with a photo and video package! Stunning footage of all of you dancing in the sky (or screaming with excitement!) will be just a click away on your phone or on a complimentary SD card. A real treasure to share with those who didn't get the chance to fly with you!
Create a unique atmosphere with a fun theme like “future flight” or “space travel.” Colourful outfits, funky accessories… Make it a bright and vibrant celebration—your hen party is the perfect time to get creative!
Let us make your dreams come true!
IDEAS FOR A MEMORABLE BIRTHDAY
A Surprise in the Sky! For a birthday, plan an epic surprise: a tandem paragliding flight without telling the guest of honour. Reveal the plan just before take-off for a guaranteed wow!
Touch down on the beach surrounded by my friends and family, with a cake waiting eagerly and champagne ready to make a grand entrance.
Why not pair your flight with a feast? Enjoy lunch at a restaurant with panoramic sea views, savour local delicacies and share stories from up in the air: the perfect combination for a memorable celebration!
Add a video of your flight to relive this incredible day again and again. Why not give a friend or loved one a gift voucher for a flight? An original gift that lets them choose the perfect moment for their own take-off!
Come fly with friends!
WHY FLY ON THE FRENCH RIVIERA?
At Azur Parapente, we love paragliding almost as much as you love celebrating! Our experienced instructors are here to guide you safely and make every flight memorable. Your enjoyment is our priority, and we know how to make every moment special by catering to your needs and wishes.
Celebrate a special occasion with a paragliding flight and enjoy unforgettable memories and breathtaking scenery.
Whether you’re planning a hen party, birthday, marriage proposal... all your ideas are gems that will help us create a spectacular, unforgettable event for you!
an activity for everyone, even if you’re not a top-level athlete
Paragliding: an activity for everyone
Paragliding is often seen as an extreme sport reserved for experienced athletes or thrill-seekers. In reality, it’s an activity everyone can enjoy, whatever your age or fitness level. At Azur Parapente, we firmly believe that free flight is an accessible, gentle and unforgettable experience for everyone.
A gentle, safe activity
Contrary to what you might think, paragliding isn’t an activity reserved for an elite few or top athletes. For a tandem flight or introductory session, everything is arranged to ensure your safety and comfort. Our highly qualified instructors guide you throughout, explaining every step and making sure you feel at ease. Most activities are gentle, at a suitable altitude and under the full supervision of professionals.
An activity for everyone
Whether you’re young or old, sporty or not, paragliding can be a wonderful adventure for everyone. Above all, it’s a sensory experience that lets you enjoy breathtaking views, listen to the silence of the mountains and feel the gentle breeze on your face. You don’t need to be a top athlete or in excellent physical shape to enjoy this activity. All you need is a sense of adventure and a desire to discover something new.
Our instructors supervise each flight to ensure an experience tailored to everyone. The activity is open to anyone weighing between 20 and 80 kg. Above 80 kg, the passenger will need to be a little more active during takeoff, which requires a longer run to ensure a safe launch.
Safety comes first
At Azur Parapente, your safety is our top priority. Our qualified and experienced pilots tailor every flight to your profile and abilities. Our take-off sites are equipped with modern facilities and selected for their safety. Our instructors guide you every step of the way, and you can always communicate with them during the flight if you’d like to adjust or end the experience.
Feel the thrill, without the pressure
One of the greatest things about paragliding is that it offers unique sensations without the stress or the need to be a seasoned athlete. It’s an activity where anyone can let go, enjoy the moment and be swept away by the magic of flight. Whether you’re looking to experience it for the first time or simply enjoy a peaceful moment suspended in the air, paragliding is for everyone.
Conclusion
So don’t wait to discover the beauty of free flight. At Azur Parapente, we’re here to guide you on this adventure, whatever your age, weight or fitness level. Paragliding has many facets, but above all, it’s an accessible, gentle experience full of emotion. Come live this dream with us and let the magic of the sky carry you away!
Would you like to try paragliding or simply find out more? Contact us today to book your flight or ask us any questions. We’d be delighted to introduce you to this incredible activity, open to everyone!
So, ready to take to the skies?