Paragliding in Winter: What's Different, and Is It Worth It?

Most people think paragliding is a summer thing. It isn't. Some of the most beautiful flights of the year happen in winter, when everything below you is white and the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau are covered in fresh snow. Here's what to expect.

Can you really paraglide in winter?

Yes. Tandem flights run all year round in the Jungfrau Region whenever the weather allows. You don't need any experience: your pilot does the flying, and you just sit back and enjoy the view.

What's different about flying in winter

Smoother air. In winter the sun is weaker, so there's less rising warm air. That usually means calm, gentle flights, perfect if you're a bit nervous.

Shorter flights. With less rising air, you glide down rather than climb up. Expect around 10 to 20 minutes in the air.

Snowy take-offs. Depending on the snow, you take off on foot or even on skis. Your pilot will tell you exactly what to do: usually just a few steps or a short run.

That winter light. Snowy peaks, frosted forests and the low winter sun make it incredibly photogenic. On a clear day you can see for miles.

More weather dependent. Snowstorms, low cloud or strong wind mean no flying. Keep your plans flexible.

Is it cold?

Yes, a bit. You're moving through cold air at altitude, so it feels colder than standing on the ground. But flights are short, and you're sitting still, wrapped in a harness. Dress well and you'll be fine.

What to wear

• Warm layers: thermal base layer, fleece, and a windproof jacket on top
• Ski or snow trousers
• Warm gloves: the one thing people always wish they'd brought thicker ones
• A hat or buff under the helmet, and something to cover your neck
• Sunglasses: the sun on snow is bright
• Sturdy winter boots with grip, for walking to the take-off

Where to fly in the Jungfrau Region in winter

• Mürren: fly out over the Lauterbrunnen Valley, with its frozen waterfalls and sheer cliffs. One of the most dramatic flights in Switzerland.
• Interlaken: take off from Beatenberg and land in the middle of town, with views over the lakes.
• Männlichen: fly down to Wengen or Grindelwald, with the Jungfrau right in front of you.

Tips for booking

• Fly in the morning if you can, as the weather is often calmest then.
• Keep a backup day in case your flight gets moved because of weather.
• Check the weight limits. Most tandem flights have a maximum of around 100 kg.
• Book the photos and video. Snowy flights look amazing.

So, is it worth it?

If you want something unforgettable in the Alps this winter, absolutely. It's calm, it's beautiful, and you'll see the snowy mountains in a way you just can't from the ground or a cable car.

→ Want to fly with a local who knows the best spots? See my paragliding experiences.

→ More winter ideas: What to do in Mürren in winter.

→ Getting here: How to get to Mürren.