How to Try Winter Paragliding in Switzerland 

Few moments capture pure, weightless freedom like stepping off a snowy mountain and soaring through crisp alpine air. Winter paragliding in Switzerland isn’t just another tick on an adrenaline junkie’s list — it’s an unforgettable fusion of serenity and thrill, where snowflakes shimmer around you and the sound of the wind replaces every earthly distraction. For travellers seeking adventure holiday destinations that go beyond the ordinary, Switzerland’s sky-high landscapes offer one of Europe’s most magical winter experiences.

There’s a moment, just before take-off, when everything stands still. The snow crunches softly under your boots, the harness tugs gently at your shoulders, and the world seems to hold its breath. Then — a few steps, a sudden lift — and you’re airborne, weightless over a world of white. Below you, pine forests curve along the valley floor like brushstrokes of green against pure alpine snow.

Paragliding in winter isn’t simply about chasing adrenaline; it’s about perspective. The same mountains that seem towering from below become peaceful when viewed from above. The air feels cleaner, the silence deeper. And while skiers carve their lines through powder, you trace invisible arcs through sunlight.

It’s this combination of exhilaration and calm that makes Switzerland one of Europe’s finest adventure holiday destinations — where thrill meets tranquillity in perfect balance.

Unlike summer paragliding, where grassy slopes and green valleys dominate, winter flights unfold over glacial peaks, frozen lakes, and chocolate-box villages dusted in snow. The contrast of cold air and heart-pounding excitement makes Switzerland a dream come true for anyone looking to combine adventure, scenery, and serenity in one breathtaking holiday.

Still craving adrenaline? Explore our top destinations for adventure seekers — from skydiving in New Zealand to glacier hikes in Iceland.

Why Switzerland Is the Ultimate Winter Playground

Switzerland has long been the benchmark for alpine excellence — where efficient railways meet mountain mystique. But what makes it one of the best adventure holiday destinations in the world is its ability to cater to thrill-seekers all year round.

Even when ski resorts are at their busiest, paragliding offers a completely different kind of escape. From Interlaken’s shimmering lakes to Zermatt’s snow-draped Matterhorn, the Swiss Alps transform into a natural amphitheatre for the sky.

Flights can reach altitudes of 1,800–3,000 metres, depending on the site, with professional tandem pilots guiding you through take-off and landing. The experience is surprisingly peaceful once airborne — a dance with the wind where every turn reveals a new postcard-perfect panorama.

For more information, check out the official Switzerland tourism site.

When to Go and What to Expect

Winter paragliding runs from December to March, when snow coverage is at its peak and thermals are gentler. Morning flights offer the clearest skies, while afternoon light brings golden hues over the peaks — ideal for photography.

Switzerland’s mountain infrastructure makes travel seamless: cogwheel trains, cable cars, and impeccably timed buses connect even the smallest villages. That means you can fly in the morning, enjoy a raclette lunch in a chalet, and be back in your spa suite before dusk.

What to Bring

Thermal layers are essential — think ski trousers, insulated gloves, and a windproof jacket. Operators supply helmets, harnesses, and boots if needed. Sunglasses or ski goggles help protect your eyes from the bright alpine glare.

Swiss Winter Culture

Part of the joy of flying here is what surrounds the experience. You’ll see families skating on frozen lakes, church bells echoing through the snow, and locals sipping Glühwein by outdoor firepits. Switzerland in winter feels like a postcard that’s come to life — clean, elegant, and quietly enchanting.

If you love the idea of soaring through snow-covered peaks, you’ll also enjoy discovering Switzerland’s top ski resorts for winter adventures, where paragliding meets perfect powder.

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of swapping ski poles for a parachute harness, here’s how to try winter paragliding in three of Switzerland’s most spectacular regions.

Interlaken – The Heart of Swiss Paragliding

If Switzerland had an adventure capital, it would be Interlaken. Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and framed by the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau mountains, Interlaken is synonymous with paragliding — and in winter, it becomes a snow-dusted wonderland for daredevils and dreamers alike.

The Experience

Winter paragliding in Interlaken begins at Beatenberg, a launch site around 1,350 metres above sea level. After a quick safety briefing and gear check, you’ll take a few steps on a snowy slope before being gently lifted into the alpine air. Below, the turquoise shimmer of the lakes contrasts beautifully with the white-capped peaks, creating a cinematic scene of calm and wonder.

Flights typically last 10–20 minutes depending on wind conditions. The icy air is surprisingly refreshing when wrapped up in thermal gear, and the descent offers a clear view of Interlaken’s fairytale rooftops before a smooth landing in the town park.

Local pilots often record your flight, so you can relive the moment long after your boots are back on the ground — a perfect memento from one of Switzerland’s top adventure holiday destinations.

Where to Stay: Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa

Few hotels encapsulate the grandeur of the Swiss Alps quite like the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa. This five-star landmark blends Belle Époque architecture with modern luxury, offering a heated indoor pool, award-winning restaurants, and sweeping views of the Jungfrau massif. After your flight, unwind in the spa’s saltwater sanctuary or enjoy afternoon tea by the window as paragliders drift gracefully past.



Explore More with Jamie Wake Travel

At Jamie Wake Travel, we can tailor your Interlaken adventure into a complete winter escape — from direct flights and transfers to curated excursions and boutique stays. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or alpine charm, our specialists can help you discover other adventure holiday destinations that suit your style and comfort.

Exploring the Jungfrau Region Between Flights

Travelling between Interlaken and Lauterbrunnen feels like moving through a living painting. The short rail journey passes through small hamlets dusted in white, with glimpses of frozen waterfalls and the mighty Jungfrau massif looming ahead.

This region is ideal for travellers wanting to blend adrenaline with leisure. You can paraglide in the morning and take the Jungfraujoch “Top of Europe” train in the afternoon — a breathtaking ride to 3,454 metres, where you can step out onto the glacier itself.

In the evenings, Interlaken’s cafés and alpine bars hum with quiet excitement as flyers and skiers share stories. And for those who prefer calmer pursuits, snowshoeing through Lauterbrunnen’s forest trails or a sleigh ride in nearby Grindelwald make perfect companions to your flying adventures.

It’s easy to see why this region consistently ranks among the top adventure holiday destinations in Europe — variety, accessibility, and sheer natural beauty come together effortlessly.

Lauterbrunnen Valley – The Fairytale Flight of 72 Waterfalls

Just a short train ride from Interlaken lies a place so beautiful it feels almost mythical: Lauterbrunnen Valley, often called “the valley of 72 waterfalls.” Even in winter, when the cliffs are frosted and the falls freeze mid-cascade, this narrow valley remains one of Switzerland’s most captivating adventure holiday destinations.

The Experience

Winter paragliding here feels like stepping into a snow globe. The launch sites above Lauterbrunnen — particularly those near Mürren or Wengen — provide jaw-dropping take-off points. You’ll find yourself gliding between sheer rock faces, past glistening waterfalls and over sleepy chalets blanketed in snow.

Unlike Interlaken’s wide-open lake views, Lauterbrunnen’s flights are more intimate — an immersive journey through the vertical world of the Bernese Alps. The crisp air carries echoes of rushing water and distant cowbells, and for a few surreal minutes, it’s just you, your pilot, and the silent majesty of the mountains.

One of the highlights is flying with a view of the Staubbach Falls, which cascade nearly 300 metres down the cliff edge — often partially frozen in winter. Watching this icy ribbon from above is an experience few travellers forget.

Paragliding here operates under strict safety regulations, with professional tandem operators ensuring everything from wind checks to weather forecasts are perfect before take-off. Flights usually last around 15 minutes, ending on a snowy meadow near the valley floor.

Where to Stay: Hotel Silberhorn, Wengen

To truly soak in the alpine serenity, stay at Hotel Silberhorn in Wengen. This family-run, four-star hotel perches right beside the mountain railway and overlooks the entire valley — the perfect spot to watch other paragliders sweep by at sunset.

Rooms feature wooden balconies, while the spa includes a sauna and outdoor whirlpool where steam meets snowflakes. After a day in the clouds, you can relax by the fire with a glass of local wine and gaze at the peaks you just flew past.

Explore More with Jamie Wake Travel

Jamie Wake Travel can pair your Lauterbrunnen experience with scenic rail journeys, guided snowshoe hikes, or even a romantic winter stay in Mürren — another of Switzerland’s classic adventure holiday destinations. Let our team craft a bespoke itinerary where each day brings a new kind of thrill, whether in the air, on the slopes, or in the spa.

If winter’s your favourite season, take inspiration from our 5 snowy escapes for magical winter holidays — from Lapland to the Swiss Alps, every destination delivers postcard-perfect charm.”

Zermatt – Fly Beside the Mighty Matterhorn

No list of adventure holiday destinations would be complete without Zermatt, home of the legendary Matterhorn. Known for its car-free cobbled streets and glacial panoramas, Zermatt transforms into a winter wonderland each December. But for those who dare to take to the skies, it offers something even more extraordinary — the chance to paraglide alongside one of the most recognisable peaks in the world.

The Experience

Zermatt’s winter paragliding experience is pure alpine theatre. Most flights begin high above the village at Riffelberg or Rotenboden, where the launch sites sit over 2,500 metres up. As your pilot lays out the wing, you’ll be surrounded by 4,000-metre peaks — Weisshorn, Monte Rosa, and the Matterhorn itself — their jagged ridges dusted with fresh snow.

With a few brisk steps, you’re airborne. The crisp, thin mountain air rushes past as you circle gently over the valley, tracing the railway lines of the Gornergrat below. From here, you can see frozen lakes glimmering between pine forests, and the sharp silhouette of the Matterhorn dominating the skyline like a guardian of the Alps.

Winter thermals are weaker than in summer, meaning flights are smoother and more tranquil — ideal for first-timers or those seeking a calm yet spectacular experience. On clear mornings, you might even see your own shadow gliding over the snow, ringed by a faint rainbow halo — a rare atmospheric phenomenon called a glory.

It’s little wonder Zermatt ranks among Europe’s top adventure capitals. For seasoned travellers, this is not just another bucket-list tick; it’s a spiritual encounter with the Alps themselves.

Where to Stay: CERVO Mountain Resort

The CERVO Mountain Resort perfectly captures Zermatt’s blend of style and soul. This design-led alpine lodge sits above the village with views that seem made for postcards. Suites come with panoramic terraces and fireplaces, while the resort’s “Mountain Ashram Spa” offers outdoor whirlpools facing the Matterhorn.

Whether you’re sipping mulled wine beneath fairy lights or dining on truffle fondue after your flight, CERVO combines modern luxury with a strong sense of mountain authenticity — a flawless finale to your paragliding holiday.

For travellers planning a full alpine itinerary, our Skiing in the Alps: A Complete Guide offers expert insight into Switzerland’s most scenic resorts — from Zermatt to St. Moritz.

Après-Ski and Alpine Evenings

Once your feet are back on the ground, Zermatt’s charm continues after sunset. The village streets twinkle with lanterns, and the scent of melting cheese drifts from fondue chalets. Popular spots like Chez Vrony or The Omnia blend fine dining with mountain authenticity, while lively après-ski bars welcome paragliders swapping flight footage over hot mulled wine.

Zermatt is also a leader in sustainable tourism, with electric taxis, solar-powered lifts, and a commitment to preserving its natural environment. Every visitor contributes to this delicate balance — enjoying the adventure while helping protect the mountains for future travellers.

Whether you’re flying, dining, or simply wandering beneath the Matterhorn’s shadow, Zermatt proves that true adventure holiday destinations offer more than thrills — they offer connection, culture, and care for the landscape itself.

Explore More with Jamie Wake Travel

At Jamie Wake Travel, we can turn your Zermatt escape into a full alpine journey — from scenic train rides through the Lötschberg Tunnel to private transfers and exclusive hotel upgrades. Our experts can also recommend other adventure holiday destinations across Europe, from Norway’s fjords to Austria’s Tyrolean valleys, helping you build a bespoke itinerary that’s as daring or as relaxed as you wish.

Jamie Says:

“There’s nothing quite like seeing Switzerland from above — the sense of peace, the silence of snow, and the realisation that you’re gliding through one of nature’s greatest masterpieces. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want to try something new, winter paragliding is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that stays with you forever.”

Jamie Wake, Founder of Jamie Wake Travel

Booking Protections You Can Count On

When you book your winter adventure with Jamie Wake Travel, you’re not just securing an unforgettable holiday — you’re protecting it too. As an independent UK travel agency with ATOL protection and Supplier Failure Insurance, we make sure every element of your trip is covered.

That means if a flight, hotel, or operator faces disruption, your money and travel plans are fully safeguarded. We only work with trusted, licensed partners and established local guides — so whether you’re paragliding over Interlaken or relaxing in Zermatt, you can do so with complete peace of mind.

Plus, our team personally checks each supplier for safety, sustainability, and service quality, ensuring your adventure is not only thrilling but responsible.

Many travellers underestimate the value of ATOL protection until something unexpected happens. With Jamie Wake Travel, you’re never left to figure things out alone. If an airline fails, a hotel closes, or weather interrupts part of your trip, our ATOL and Supplier Failure Insurance step in to refund, reroute, or reorganise — quickly and efficiently.

Unlike large online booking platforms, we maintain personal relationships with every supplier. That means if your flight from Geneva is delayed, or you need a last-minute transfer to Interlaken, we’re already talking directly to partners on the ground.

Our philosophy is simple: you focus on the experience, we handle the logistics. And because every itinerary is crafted by real travel experts, not algorithms, you’ll always have a name, number, and face to call — before, during, and after your trip.

Why Book Your Adventure with Jamie Wake Travel

At Jamie Wake Travel, we believe your holiday should be as unique as you are. From snow-covered peaks to sunlit valleys, we help you discover adventure holiday destinations that capture your imagination and fit your travel style.

Our experienced advisors handle every detail — flights, transfers, boutique hotels, and activity bookings — while offering honest advice based on first-hand experience. You’ll never be passed to a call centre; you’ll speak to real people who genuinely love what they do.

To see how we turn ideas into bespoke journeys, learn more about The Jamie Wake Travel Experience — where your next adventure holiday starts with a conversation.

So, whether you’re dreaming of paragliding through the Swiss Alps or exploring another corner of the world, we’ll make it happen with personal care, professional expertise, and a touch of warmth that only an independent travel specialist can provide.

📞 Call us today on 01495 400005 or use our online enquiry form to start planning.

Or visit our website to explore and compare thousands of options using our holiday search tool — it’s the easiest way to build a trip that’s truly one of a kind.

Because when you travel with Jamie Wake Travel, every adventure becomes a story worth telling.

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Frequently Asked Questions: How to Try Winter Paragliding in Switzerland