Summary
The aerology of the Alpes Maritimes is famous for its pumping thermals and high cloud bases, which can be in excess of 4000m. There are several other sites nearby: Gourdon, to the south, offers good winter cross country flying; Col de Bleyne to the west is a much easier launch pad for cross country flights; Lachens is the place to go in a westerly. The south-facing take-offs on the Cheiron are named after their top-to-bottom heights in metres from the landing field: 300, 600, 700, and you can fly from the summit at 1,778m. The local paragliding school runs a shuttle service from the landing field up a 4×4 track to the 300, and in the summer it also shuttles pilots up the dry ski piste on the north side to the 600/700 launches. These tracks are forbidden for private users, so leg-power is the only other way up. However, a morning hike-and-fly on the Cheiron is something to enjoy, with medieval ruins, chamois and ibex to complement the glorious views. Avoid flying in a westerly, as this puts the landing field in the lee of the village and can signify a mistral, which is likely to be, or become, strong. Wind on top can be strong in the summer thermals – launch early or late. The 300 is generally launchable all day. There’s airspace above the Cheiron, so check your map. Summers are usually very warm, with temperatures reaching around 26C. Winters can be cold with snow but clear blue skies and sunshine. October sees the most rainfall on average.
The Destination
The Experience
We are located in the French pre-Alpes and only 50 minutes away from Nice airport. Flying is generally possible here a whopping 330 days a year! With the 3 local take offs, Col-de-Bleine, St Andre, Gourdon and Monaco all easily accessible from here, you will always find somewhere to fly.
We offer exclusive use rentals of the entire villa and property – mostly in summer, and also B&B or longer term stays in winter and off-peak seasons. With 2 generous lounges, open plan kitchen/dining and a large south facing sun terrace, this is the perfect spot for families, groups of friends and even your pets to dine and unwind. We offer a Concierge service to arrange all your activity needs. With a broad range of activities and contacts we can help you set up your perfect holiday. Half-board catering is an attractive option for our paragliding guests to take the stress out of your holiday and to dine in your own personal restaurant – your home from home and with spectacular views of the Wolf Valley.
We have 4 bedrooms, each with the possibility of being either double or 2 single beds, we can sleep 8. On request, we may be able to accommodate 10 guests. Get in touch for more details. We offer full board of breakfast, packed lunch, pre-dinner snacks and a hearty 2 course dinner for €75 per person per night. Your host is an ex-yacht chef, so prepare your tastebuds to be tantilized!
Or you can take the self-catered option at €30 pppn* in low season.
Our 55m2 south facing terrace is not only amazing for dining and chilling, it's also a great spot for inspecting your wing.
We've teamed up with the local paragliding school to offer you a fully comprehensive paragliding holiday. One price to cover all your accommodation, dining and flying needs!! Check our the packages.
Get in touch for your best paragliding holiday ever! (may be able to offer drop off and retrieval services....)
*please note that prices are based on full occupancy. Single supplement may apply.
Retrieval
If you have a vehicle large enough for your group, we will be happy to use it to retrieve you should you take advantage of the amazing cross country possibilities available here. If you come on one of the packages, the school will cover all your paragliding transport needs.
Other flying sites
Proximity to Gourdon, Col du Bleyne & St Andre make this the perfect location for your paragliding get away. Monaco is easily accessed from here too, however, check if landing in Monaco is permitted during your visit. Often, landing is only permitted between October and April, though sometimes after 6pm in summer months.
Need coaching?
If so, we can put you in touch with the local paragliding school.
Check out our packages...
More inspiration
World class pilots have and continue to live in this area. The offices of BGD and Ozone are here and test their wings at our amazingly diverse and challenging flying sites. One local legend took off in Greolieres one morning and landed in Switzerland. The cross country possibilities are immense given the right conditions. If it's feeling good, take your passport - just in case!!
You are likely to be flying amongst some amazing test pilots and the Cross Country Magazine guys.
In this wonderfully friendly area, you will enjoy a great atmosphere and helpful advice should you want it.
Accommodation
Your Host: Nicola
Nicola is your host for this experience and will provide you with all the information needed.