When most people think of Chamonix, they will think of skiing and this is perfectly understandable. After all, this is one of the premier skiing destinations in Europe and thousands upon thousands of visitors arrive in the area every year for a skiing holiday. However, there is a lot more to Chamonix than just skiing and this is something that is becoming more apparent with every passing year. Chamonix is fast becoming a year round destination and anyone that has a love of flying could find that Chamonix helps them to achieve their dreams. Yes, if you fancy learning to fly, head to Chamonix this summer and live your dreams!
This is because in Chamonix during the summer months you will have the opportunity to soar like a bird high about the mountain tops. This is all down to paragliding which has been synonymous with Chamonix for decades. The birth of paragliding is said to have happened way back in 1974 in Mieusey, which can be found close to Chamonix. The sport took a while to develop in popularity but since the 1990s, thanks to a number of developments and technological breakthroughs, the activity has been on the up and up since then!
Beginners can feel the benefits of flying
There is something for everyone and there is no doubt that absolute beginners will have something to look forward to and enjoy with this activity. The beginner’s wings which are provided to new learners are very safe but they are still able to deliver an astounding level of performance and flight. Even if you are new to paragliding you will be able to have an excellent experience while staying safe at all times. Being able to experience such a great exhilaration without actually being in any danger makes this such an exciting activity. This is one of the best destinations in the world where you can safely learn all about the wonder that comes with free flight.
If you are looking to break yourself in gently, there is the opportunity to enjoy a tandem flight where you will fly with a qualified pilot. This can take even more of the pressure off you and it will ensure that you get to experience this once in a lifetime journey. However, if you have been really bitten by the flying bug, you can decide to take lessons which will help you to soar above the Alps and gain a wonderful perspective on the world around you.
In-depth training takes days but is worth it
The in-depth pilot training for paragliding in Chamonix can take a number of days but this should indicate the seriousness of the course. While paragliding may look simple, this is not simple and it is not something that you should look to jump into. Some of the training methods you will enjoy on a standard course will include ground handling, understanding theory, tandem flights and supervised solo flights. Many solo training courses can take up to 3 to 4 days, which may take up a lot of your holidays but the benefits are very much worth it for people that are serious about making the most of their paragliding opportunities.
The tandem paraglide lessons and sessions will provide the basis for the learning process and will hopefully help all students to feel comfortable about paragliding. No one wants to feel unsure of what they are doing when they are flying in the sky so these lessons are extremely important for anyone looking to soar in the summer in Chamonix.
The ground handling training element is another extremely important element and one that should not be skimped upon either. For many people, the difficult bit is not flying; it is coming to terms with the ground again! This is where receiving proper training and full instructions will definitely come in handy.
Plenty of thrills to be found in Chamonix
Anyone looking for an updated version of paragliding on the snow should look out for speed riding lessons. This enables people to ride or fly on the slopes at tremendous speeds. If you really want to push yourself to the limit and experience real speed and thrills on the slopes, this new form of paragliding is definitely of interest.
Flight has fascinated mankind for thousands of years but the adventures you can have in Chamonix will provide you with views and memories that will stay with you for a very long time. While skiing may remain the number one activity in Chamonix for many years to come, the joy that comes from taking to the skies and looking down on this world famous resort is definitely worth pursuing.
Getting to the Alpine Mecca of Chamonix
Located only 102km’s away from Geneva International Airport arranging transfers from Geneva to Chamonix is simple with Chamonix first. With online booking and SMS updates before travel dates, this new revolutionary service has taken all the stress from traveling to and from Chamonix.