Introduction
Imagine standing on a grassy alpine slope, the crisp mountain air brushing your face, as you prepare to run off a cliff — not in fear, but in pure excitement. Below you stretch two shimmering lakes, and beyond, the snow-tipped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Welcome to Interlaken, the beating heart of adventure activities in Switzerland.
Nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, Interlaken is world-famous for one thing — paragliding. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an adventure enthusiast ticking off a bucket-list dream, flying over Interlaken offers one of the most breathtaking experiences on Earth.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know — from how paragliding works, where to book your flight, what to expect on the day, safety tips, and the best places to stay and eat nearby.
Let’s take off! ✈️
Why Interlaken is the Capital of Adventure Activities in Switzerland
Switzerland offers countless adventures — skiing in Zermatt, canyoning in Ticino, or glacier hiking in Saas-Fee — but Interlaken is different. It’s where all types of adventure meet in one compact region.
- 🪂 Paragliding Capital: Over 30,000 tandem flights take off yearly.
- 🚁 Skydiving & Helicopter Jumps: For those craving more adrenaline.
- 🚣 Water Adventures: Kayaking and rafting between the twin lakes.
- 🚴 Mountain Biking & Hiking: Miles of scenic alpine trails.
Thanks to its unique geography, Interlaken provides stable wind patterns and open valley landings — ideal for paragliding all year round.
What Makes Paragliding in Interlaken Special
Unlike many paragliding destinations, Interlaken’s setup is beginner-friendly and scenic from start to finish.
🏞️ Panoramic Views
You’ll glide over:
- Lake Thun and Lake Brienz
- The Jungfrau mountain range
- Interlaken town and lush green meadows
🌦️ Stable Weather Conditions
The valley between the lakes creates consistent air currents — perfect for smooth, safe takeoffs and landings.
🪂 Accessible for Everyone
Even if you’ve never done an adventure sport before, Interlaken’s professional pilots make it simple and safe.
A short briefing, a few running steps, and suddenly — you’re soaring.
Paragliding for Beginners: What to Expect
🕘 Duration
- Total Experience: 1.5 to 2 hours (includes transport & prep)
- Actual Flight Time: 10–20 minutes, depending on wind
📍 Typical Flight Route
- Meet in Interlaken Center (usually at your tour company’s office)
- Drive to Beatenberg — 15 minutes uphill through alpine forest
- Pre-flight briefing & gear fitting
- Takeoff — a short run downhill, then you’re airborne!
- Enjoy the view & photos mid-air
- Landing — in Höhematte Park, right in central Interlaken
Step-by-Step Guide for First-Time Flyers
🥾 Step 1: Book Your Flight Early
Popular paragliding companies:
Flights operate year-round, but spring to autumn (April–October) offers the best visibility and thermals.
🧥 Step 2: Dress Comfortably
Wear:
- Light jacket or windbreaker
- Sport shoes (no sandals!)
- Sunglasses
- Gloves (in cooler months)
📷 Step 3: Capture the Moment
Your pilot will usually have a GoPro for mid-air photos & videos.
You can buy them after your flight — most packages offer USB or online delivery.
🪂 Step 4: Enjoy the Ride
The flight is smooth and silent. The only sound is the wind and your heart racing.
You can ask your pilot for:
- Calm scenic flight
- Or thrilling spins and dives (for the brave!)
🛬 Step 5: Gentle Landing
Landings are soft — you simply stand up as the glider slows to a stop.
The view of Höhematte Park filled with flowers and onlookers cheering adds to the magic.
Best Time for Paragliding in Interlaken
| Season | What to Expect | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (April–May) | Fresh air, green meadows, melting snow peaks | Scenic photography |
| Summer (June–August) | Warm weather, strong thermals for longer flights | Thrill-seekers |
| Autumn (September–October) | Golden forests, crisp skies | Peaceful flyers |
| Winter (December–March) | Snow-covered Alps, colder air | Winter paragliding lovers |
☀️ Pro Tip: Morning flights often have the best visibility and calm winds.
Is Paragliding Safe in Switzerland?
Absolutely. Paragliding in Interlaken is one of the safest adventure activities in Switzerland, thanks to strict regulations and professional pilots.
🧾 Safety Standards
- Licensed instructors with Swiss certification (SHV)
- Regular equipment checks
- Real-time weather monitoring
8. Cost & Booking Details
| Type of Flight | Duration | Approx. Cost (CHF) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tandem Flight | 10–15 minutes | 160–190 CHF |
| Long Scenic Flight | 20–30 minutes | 220–250 CHF |
| Photo/Video Package | — | +40–60 CHF |
Bookings can be made directly on the company’s website.
💳 Payment: Cards or Swiss Francs accepted.
🚍 Transport: Free pickup from hotels in Interlaken.
Where to Stay in Interlaken
🏨 Luxury Stays
- Victoria Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa (~CHF 450/night)
5-star alpine luxury with spa, indoor pool, and mountain views.
🏞️ Mid-Range Hotels
- Hotel Interlaken (~CHF 180/night)
Central location, great breakfast, walkable to Höhematte Park.
🛏️ Budget Options
- Balmers Hostel (~CHF 60/night)
Backpacker favorite with social vibe and mountain views.
Other Adventure Activities in Interlaken
Interlaken isn’t just about paragliding — it’s a hub of outdoor adventure year-round.
🏄♂️ Summer Adventures
- Canyoning: Dive through gorges in Saxeten or Grimsel
- Kayaking: Explore Lake Brienz’s turquoise waters
- Jet Boating: High-speed fun on Lake Brienz
❄️ Winter Adventures
- Snowshoeing: Peaceful alpine walks
- Heli-skiing: For expert skiers near Jungfrau
- Winter Paragliding: Fly over snowy peaks for a surreal view
Food & Dining: Refuel After Your Flight
🍴 Top Local Eateries
- Husi Bierhaus: Traditional Swiss food, cozy wooden interior
- Restaurant The Barrel: Steak & fondue with mountain views
- Velo Cafe: Great for breakfast and smoothies before your flight
Don’t miss the Swiss fondue — the perfect comfort meal after an adrenaline rush.
Insider Tips for First-Timers
✅ Check Weather Forecast: Flights may be rescheduled for safety.
✅ Bring ID: Required for registration.
✅ Arrive Early: 15–20 minutes before your scheduled slot.
✅ No Age Limit: Minimum age 5–6 years (depending on company).
✅ Weight Limit: Usually between 100–120 kg.
How to Get to Interlaken
- From Zurich: 2 hours by train
- From Bern: 1 hour
- From Geneva: 3 hours
🚆 Trains connect easily via Interlaken Ost station.
🚌 Local buses run from station to adventure offices and hotels.
The Magic of Flying Over Interlaken
Few experiences can compare to floating effortlessly between the Swiss Alps and emerald lakes.
As you glide, the peaks of Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau surround you — symbols of natural perfection.
It’s not just a thrill. It’s serenity, freedom, and awe combined into one unforgettable memory.
For many travelers, this single flight becomes the highlight of their Swiss journey — the moment they truly feel Switzerland’s spirit of adventure.
Related Places for More Adventure Activities in Switzerland
If paragliding makes you crave more, head to:
- Grindelwald First: Cliff walks, ziplines, and hiking trails
- Lauterbrunnen: Base for waterfall hikes & skydiving
- Saas-Fee: Glacier trekking and ice climbing
- Ticino: Canyoning paradise in southern Switzerland
Each destination adds another thrilling chapter to your journey through adventure activities in Switzerland.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time flyer, paragliding over Interlaken is the purest form of Swiss adventure — a perfect mix of adrenaline and serenity.
It captures everything travelers love about adventure activities in Switzerland: majestic mountains, professional guides, world-class safety, and unforgettable views.
So next time you’re planning your Swiss trip — don’t just see the Alps.
Fly through them.
✈️ Book your flight, feel the wind, and let Switzerland show you the world from above.
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