THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Ride the thermals above Orcières-Merlette for panoramic views of the Écrins massif. This tandem paragliding flight pairs certified pilots with accessible launches—summer foot takeoffs, winter ski launches—and about 60 minutes of airborne alpine perspective.
Ride the thermals above Orcières-Merlette for panoramic views of the Écrins massif. This tandem paragliding flight pairs certified pilots with accessible launches—summer foot takeoffs, winter ski launches—and about 60 minutes of airborne alpine perspective.
A crisp alpine wind pushes at your jacket as you step toward the grassy lip above Orcières-Merlette. The pilot checks the lines, and for a heartbeat the valley below seems to inhale; then the glider fills and you are lifted cleanly above chairlifts, stone ridges and the wide sweep of the Écrins peaks. From the air the massif reads like folded rock and snow—granite shoulders and long glacier scars—while the Durance and its tributaries cut bright ribbons through the valley.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Orcières Parapente · Orcières, Hautes-Alpes
A crisp alpine wind pushes at your jacket as you step toward the grassy lip above Orcières-Merlette. The pilot checks the lines, and for a heartbeat the valley below seems to inhale; then the glider fills and you are lifted cleanly above chairlifts, stone ridges and the wide sweep of the Écrins peaks. From the air the massif reads like folded rock and snow—granite shoulders and long glacier scars—while the Durance and its tributaries cut bright ribbons through the valley.
This sector of the Hautes-Alpes has been a crossroads of shepherding and mountain sport for generations. Orcières-Merlette grew into a modern resort in the mid-20th century, and today paragliders use the same ridgelines that once guided shepherds and summer walkers. The Écrins National Park protects glaciers, alpine meadows and steep granite faces—geology that creates the thermals and lift pilots exploit.
Tandem flights here are handled by certified instructors. In summer takeoff and landing are on foot; in winter pilots use skis and shorter, high-altitude launches (typically about 700 m vertical). Flights run about 60 minutes, are weather-dependent and accessible from roughly age 8; extras such as photos and video are often available. The wind will steer you, thermals will carry you higher, and your pilot will read the mountain like a map.
Practically: arrive early, dress in layers (it’s colder in the air), wear sturdy shoes or light skis in winter, and expect a short run at takeoff in summer. Flights can be postponed for safety—bring water, a light backpack that tethers, and check weight/medical limits when booking.
Minimum age is generally 8; operators set maximum weight limits and require you to declare weight during booking—check the operator’s policy before you go.
Flights are postponed or canceled for safety; full refunds are typically available if canceled at least 24 hours prior, and instructors decide day-of cancellations based on wind and visibility.
No—tandem flights are designed for beginners and require no piloting skill; pilots handle all controls while you enjoy the view.
Most operators offer a photos/videos add-on—ask when booking so the pilot can prepare mounts or a photographer if available.
Orcières Parapente operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
A crisp alpine wind pushes at your jacket as you step toward the grassy lip above Orcières-Merlette. The pilot checks the lines, and for a heartbeat the valley below seems to inhale; then the glider fills and you are lifted cleanly above chairlifts, stone ridges and the wide sweep of the Écrins peaks. From the air the massif reads like folded rock and snow—granite shoulders and long glacier scars—while the Durance and its tributaries cut bright ribbons through the valley.
A crisp alpine wind pushes at your jacket as you step toward the grassy lip above Orcières-Merlette. The pilot checks the lines, and for a heartbeat the valley below seems to inhale; then the glider fills and you are lifted cleanly above chairlifts, stone ridges and the wide sweep of the Écrins peaks. From the air the massif reads like folded rock and snow—granite shoulders and long glacier scars—while the Durance and its tributaries cut bright ribbons through the valley.
This sector of the Hautes-Alpes has been a crossroads of shepherding and mountain sport for generations. Orcières-Merlette grew into a modern resort in the mid-20th century, and today paragliders use the same ridgelines that once guided shepherds and summer walkers. The Écrins National Park protects glaciers, alpine meadows and steep granite faces—geology that creates the thermals and lift pilots exploit.
Tandem flights here are handled by certified instructors. In summer takeoff and landing are on foot; in winter pilots use skis and shorter, high-altitude launches (typically about 700 m vertical). Flights run about 60 minutes, are weather-dependent and accessible from roughly age 8; extras such as photos and video are often available. The wind will steer you, thermals will carry you higher, and your pilot will read the mountain like a map.
Practically: arrive early, dress in layers (it’s colder in the air), wear sturdy shoes or light skis in winter, and expect a short run at takeoff in summer. Flights can be postponed for safety—bring water, a light backpack that tethers, and check weight/medical limits when booking.