Paragliding in Athens: A Unique Free Flight Experience
Paragliding in Athens, also known as parapente, offers an exhilarating taste of free flight, just a short distance from the city! Whether you’re seeking a smooth, serene ride or an adrenaline-packed extreme activity, the choice is yours, making this experience perfect for everyone.
The word parapente is derived from the French words “parachute” and “pente” (meaning mountainside or slope). It’s one of the newest and simplest forms of personal flight, often described as “pocket aviation.” This activity allows you to soar through the air and experience the freedom of flight like never before.
What to Expect
Paragliding typically takes place in the afternoons, about an hour’s drive from Athens, in the scenic mountains near Megara, Plataea, or Avlona. The flight begins with a launch from a slope, where both the pilot and passenger are securely tethered to the canopy, seated in comfortable harnesses. By harnessing the power of rising air currents, we gain altitude and glide through the air. The flight duration can range from a few minutes to up to 20 minutes, depending on the weather conditions.
No prior experience is necessary to enjoy this incredible adventure. Our certified tandem pilots handle all aspects of the flight, ensuring your safety and delivering a thrilling experience in the skies. It’s an opportunity to feel weightless and take in the breathtaking views from a vantage point unlike any other.
Who Can Participate
This activity is open to everyone over the age of 16. Minors, however, must have written permission from both parents to participate. Additionally, participants should have no health issues and weigh no more than 110 kg to ensure a safe and enjoyable flight.
In the event of poor weather conditions, paragliding may be rescheduled or replaced with an e-bike mountain biking experience, offering an equally exciting alternative adventure.
Flight Locations
Paragliding in Athens is easily accessible, with two primary flight locations in Nea Peramos and Plataea. Depending on the weather conditions on the day of your activity, our team will choose the best site for the optimal flight experience.
Here are some additional exciting activities you can enjoy with BOA Base Outdoor Activities in Athens:
1. Hiking on Mount Parnitha
- Highlights: Explore one of the largest and most beautiful national parks near Athens. With diverse hiking trails through dense forests, you can encounter wildlife like deer, enjoy stunning views, and explore hidden mountain springs and monasteries.
- Experience: Perfect for beginners and experienced hikers alike, our guided hikes offer a unique experience close to the city.
2. Cycling Tours
- Highlights: Discover Athens and its surroundings on two wheels! Our guided cycling tours explore hidden paths through parks, archaeological sites, and even along the Athenian Riviera.
- Experience: Suitable for all levels, these tours provide a mix of urban exploration and natural scenery, with stops at local spots for food and drink.
3. Coasteering in Sounio
- Highlights: Combine climbing, swimming, and jumping off cliffs along the beautiful coastline of Sounio, near the famous Temple of Poseidon. It’s a thrilling way to experience the sea and rugged coastlines of Athens.
- Experience: Ideal for adventure seekers who want to explore the coastline in a unique and adrenaline-packed way.
4. Sailing Adventure to the Petalioi Islands
- Highlights: A sailing trip from Athens to the secluded Petalioi Islands, where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy SUP in crystal-clear waters. The islands are often referred to as the “Maldives of Greece.”
- Experience: Ideal for families and groups looking for a relaxing day trip by sea, with opportunities to explore hidden beaches and coves.
All these activities provide an amazing mix of adventure, nature, and exploration around Athens. Each one is tailored to different levels of experience, ensuring there’s something for everyone!