Paragliding around Nice on the Côte d'Azur, first flights and courses in partnership with Ailéments

Dreaming of flying over the Côte d'Azur? Nice Parapente and Ailéments, the leading paragliding partners in the Alpes-Maritimes, offer first flights all year round. Our main site at Gréolières (80% of our flights) and our complementary sites at Gourdon and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin offer you the best conditions for discovering free flight between the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains.

Nice Parapente and Ailéments: the benchmark paragliding partnership in Nice

Nice Parapente and Ailéments are combining their expertise to offer you the best hang-gliding experience in the Alpes-Maritimes. This partnership guarantees professional supervision by state-qualified instructors and a year-round presence at the best sites in the region.

Nice Parapente: tandem flying expertise on the Côte d'Azur

Nice Parapente specialises in first-time paragliding flights, with in-depth knowledge of local aerological conditions. The team of qualified instructors share their passion for free flight and ensure you have direct access to the best spots from Nice.

Ailéments: 19 years of experience in Gréolières

Based in Gréolières, our main site, Ailéments has 19 years' experience of paragliding and canyoning in the Alpes-Maritimes. This historic structure has trained hundreds of pilots and carries out 80% of its flights on this exceptional site, a guarantee of quality and perfect mastery of local conditions.

A recognised partnership for paragliding in Nice

Nice Parapente and Ailéments work together to optimise your flights, mainly to Gréolières, but also to Gourdon and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin, depending on the weather. Affiliated with the French Federation of Free Flight, we are THE reference for discovering paragliding in Nice in complete safety.

State-certified instructors with a passion for the sport

All our instructors are state-qualified and undergo regular further training. Their combined experience on our sites, particularly Gréolières, represents several thousand hours of flying in the Alpes-Maritimes. As well as their technical expertise, they enthusiastically share their love of free flight and nature.

Gréolières, our main paragliding site near Nice (80% of our flights)

Gréolières is our favourite site for paragliding in Nice. Located 45 minutes inland, this exceptional spot offers the best aerological conditions in the region. This is where we do 80% of our first flights, which is no coincidence!

Why Gréolières is the best site for paragliding in Nice

Perched at an altitude of 1000 metres, Gréolières enjoys ideal aerological conditions all year round: regular thermal updrafts that naturally prolong your flights, generous sunshine on the south-facing slopes even in the middle of winter, and breathtaking panoramic views of the Pre-Alps, the Mercantour and the glistening Mediterranean Sea in the distance. Quite simply, this is THE place to be for paragliding in the Alpes-Maritimes.

Gréolières: long flights and exceptional panoramas

The steep gradient at Gréolières means that flights can last from 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the package you choose. As you fly, you can admire the Côte d'Azur stretching to the horizon, the snow-capped peaks of Valdeblore and La Colmiane glistening in the winter sun, sculpted gorges and verdant valleys. The proximity of the Mercantour creates perfect conditions for our ascending and prestige flights, offering you total immersion in Alpine nature.

Getting to Gréolières from Nice

Just 45 minutes from Nice via Grasse, Gréolières is within easy reach. The tarmac road passes through some magnificent inland scenery, and free parking is available directly at the take-off point. This proximity makes it the ideal choice for a first paragliding experience in Nice without spending the day on the road.

Optimum weather conditions at Gréolières all year round

The Mediterranean climate and southern exposure of Gréolières create a microclimate that allows us to fly 365 days a year. With around 300 days of sunshine, we can fly you in optimum conditions whatever the season. It's this exceptional reliability that explains our 80% of flights on this magical site.

Our complementary sites: Gourdon and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin

In addition to Gréolières, we operate two exceptional sites, depending on the weather conditions and your specific requirements.

Gourdon: a spectacular alternative in the hinterland

Gourdon, listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, offers an impressive take-off at 760 metres overlooking the narrow gorges of the river Loup. Just 40 minutes from Nice via Grasse, this site has been selected for its special south-easterly wind conditions. The exceptional views over the valley and the Grasse hinterland make it a popular spot for lovers of authentic nature.

Roquebrune-Cap-Martin: flying by the sea

Just 30 minutes away, between Monaco and Menton, this site lets you fly directly over the Mediterranean with the beach below. Its moderate altitude (300 metres) makes it ideal for discovery flights when sea conditions are favourable. The view over Mont Gros and the whole of the Côte d'Azur is spectacular, offering a unique perspective on the azure coastline.

Choice of site depending on conditions: priority to Gréolières

Our instructors select the optimum site each day: Gréolières in 80% of cases for its exceptional conditions, Gourdon or Roquebrune-Cap-Martin depending on the specific weather. Nature decides, and we follow its indications to guarantee you the best flying conditions and safety.

Our first paragliding flights: packages and prices

Three packages to suit all profiles, with approved equipment, supervision by a state-certified instructor and insurance included. Choose the one that suits your taste for adventure!

Child flight €90: 10 to 15 minutes

Specially designed for young adventurers weighing less than 25 kg (maximum). Minimum recommended age: 4-5 years, with parental authorisation required. The ride is gentle and reassuring, especially on Gréolières where conditions are perfect for this first discovery. Video option: €30 to immortalise this magical moment.

Ascending flight 130€: our best-seller for 20 to 30 minutes

This is our most popular option, and for good reason! Based mainly in the Gréolières area, this flight lets you take full advantage of the updrafts for an exceptional panoramic view of the sea and mountains. Suitable for adults and teenagers (minimum weight 35kg, maximum 90-100kg depending on body shape). Video and photo option: €30.

Prestige flight €250: the ultimate 45-minute to 1-hour experience

The ultimate paragliding experience! This exceptional flight over Gréolières includes video and photos. You'll gain maximum altitude by exploiting all the available lift, and you'll be able to perform manoeuvres to your heart's content. An unforgettable gift for anyone who loves thrills and nature.

Video option: immortalise your flight

Full HD film of your adventure: take-off from Gréolières, spectacular aerial views, your reactions live. Immediate delivery on SD card, USB key or online transfer to share your emotions with your friends and family.

How does your first paragliding flight in Nice work?

A typical christening, mainly at Gréolières, our preferred location. Perfectly organised for a stress-free experience!

Daily update at 8pm the previous evening by text message

The day before your flight, at 8pm on the dot, you'll receive a full text message with all the practical information you need: the exact GPS location of the meeting point (usually Gréolières), payment arrangements, what to wear for the day's conditions and, above all, your exact time slot.

Daytime availability required

When it comes to paragliding, nature decides on the best flight times! We ask you to be available all day for your first flight. The evening before, thanks to our detailed weather analysis, we can tell you exactly when you'll be flying (morning, noon or afternoon). This flexibility allows us to fly you in optimum conditions.

Meeting and briefing on site

A warm welcome at the take-off site, usually in Gréolières. Your qualified instructor will explain how the flight will work in a relaxed atmosphere. Questions and answers to create the necessary confidence, while you enjoy the exceptional panorama that awaits you in flight.

Equipment and take-off

We'll fit you out with a tandem harness and helmet, perfectly adapted to your body shape. After a few metres of side-by-side run-up, you take off gradually, without feeling like you're jumping. You settle comfortably into the harness, facing the panorama of Gréolières that opens up before you.

Flying over the Alpes-Maritimes

The silence and 360° views from Gréolières are breathtaking: the glistening Mediterranean Sea, the majestic Mercantour and the winding valleys. Your instructor makes the most of the natural lift and can offer you the chance to take the controls. You can take photos with your secure smartphone to capture these unique moments.

Landing and debriefing

A gentle return to the ground after these timeless minutes. There's a friendly debriefing over a coffee, the video is handed over if you've chosen this option, and there are often passionate discussions about the sensations you've experienced. Many of you leave with the desire to fly again, or to find out more about our introductory courses!

Conditions for paragliding in Nice

Simple, logical requirements to guarantee your safety and comfort. No medical certificate required for a baptism unless there is a specific contraindication.

Physical condition required

All you need is the ability to run 5 to 10 metres on take-off, without any particular athletic ability. No major joint problems (hips, knees, ankles) that could be aggravated by running or landing. Normal physical condition, such as that required for a leisurely hike, is more than sufficient.

Minimum and maximum weight

For children's flights: minimum weight 15 kg, maximum 25 kg. For adult flights: minimum 35 kg, maximum 90-100 kg depending on your morphology. These technical limits guarantee the safety and optimum performance of the glider. Don't hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about your eligibility.

Age and authorisation

Minimum age for children: 4-5 years, with parental authorisation required. For adults, there's no maximum age as long as you're in good physical condition. We've flown people from 7 to 77 years old with the same enthusiasm!

Appropriate clothing is compulsory

Bring comfortable sportswear and closed shoes such as trainers or hiking boots (never sandals or flip-flops). Sunglasses are recommended to make the most of the panorama. Technical equipment (glider, harness, helmet) is provided and perfectly maintained.

Why choose Nice Parapente et Ailéments to fly in Nice?

The Nice Parapente and Ailéments partnership is THE reference for paragliding in Nice and the Alpes-Maritimes. That's why so many people put their trust in us.

Gréolières, our site of excellence

80% of our flights to Gréolières, and that's no coincidence! This figure bears witness to the exceptional quality of this site: optimal conditions, unique panoramas, accessibility from Nice. We've chosen to concentrate our activities where nature offers the best, for your greatest pleasure.

19 years' experience and a solid reputation

Ailéments has 19 years of expertise in Gréolières and the Alpes-Maritimes. Google reviews regularly exceed 5/5 stars. This recognition throughout the PACA region and beyond has been built up flight after flight, through the quality of our services and our professional yet human approach.

FFVL qualified instructors

All our instructors have state qualifications and are active members of the French Free Flight Federation. Over and above their technical skills and strict safety protocols, they share a real passion for hang-gliding and nature, which they pass on with enthusiasm.

Professional organisation and daily SMS

Our daily SMS check-in at 8pm the night before guarantees stress-free organisation. You know exactly where to go, when to come and how to dress. This professional rigour, combined with a friendly atmosphere on site, makes all the difference to your experience.

Paragliding in Nice all year round

Thanks to Gréolières and our complementary sites, we fly 365 days a year. So you can book your first flight as flexibly as you like, on holiday or at the weekend. Nature decides on the time slots, but we always find a solution!

Flying all year round in Nice: climate and conditions

The Mediterranean climate of the Alpes-Maritimes and the excellence of Gréolières create unique conditions for year-round paragliding.

300 days of sunshine a year

Nice and the surrounding region enjoy an exceptionally sunny climate that is the stuff of European dreams. Gréolières, perched on the southern slopes, takes full advantage of this privileged climate for optimum flying conditions all year round. Even in winter, the sun is out!

October to April: the best time to visit

This period offers magical conditions: incomparable golden light, stable air for gentle flights, exceptional visibility of the snow-covered Mercantour and the sparkling Mediterranean. Mild temperatures (10-18°C) even in the middle of winter at Gréolières. Photographers love this season for the quality of the light.

Gréolières: ideal weather conditions

The regular thermal updrafts, the prevailing north/north-westerly wind and the natural protection of the terrain all combine to make Gréolières an exceptional spot. These conditions explain why we use it 80% of the time for paragliding in Nice. Nature is particularly generous here!

Flexibility with our three sites

If, exceptionally, Gréolières has limited conditions, Gourdon or Roquebrune-Cap-Martin will take over. This complementarity of sites guarantees maximum success for your first flight. It's our guarantee that we'll be able to get you flying!

Paragliding courses in Nice

Beyond first flights, join the community of autonomous pilots with our training courses recognised by the French Free Flight Federation.

Discovery course in Gréolières

Introductory training over 2-3 days at our main site in a friendly atmosphere for nature lovers. Your first solo flights under the radio supervision of our qualified instructors. The moment when you discover real flying, alone in the sky with your glider!

Full pilot licence training

Complete FFVL course, mainly at Gréolières, to go from beginner to autonomous pilot in several weeks. Aerological theory to understand nature and the elements, intensive practice on our exceptional sites. Join the great family of paragliding pilots!

Advanced training for experienced pilots

For experienced pilots looking to improve their skills: perfecting thermalling, cross-country flying, making the most of lift. Take advantage of the sporting conditions at Gréolières to push your limits in complete safety with our qualified instructors.

Paragliding and canyoning day

A unique package for nature lovers and thrill-seekers: first paragliding experience at Gréolières in the morning to admire the gorges from above, then canyoning in the gorges du Loup in the afternoon with Ailéments to explore them from the inside. A full day of adventure in the high country of Nice!

Book your first paragliding flight in Nice

All the practical information you need to organise your flight with Nice Parapente et Ailéments.

Contact and easy booking

Contact us to discuss your project, or book online in just a few clicks. We'll get back to you as soon as possible with the first information on the site you've chosen (usually Gréolières, our main spot). Gift vouchers available for this unique experience.

Daily SMS at 8pm: all the practical information

The day before your flight, at 8pm precisely, you'll receive a full text message including the GPS location of the meeting point, the payment method (credit card, cash, bank transfer), the appropriate clothing for the conditions and, above all, your precise time slot. Everything is clear, all you have to do is enjoy!

Daytime availability required

It's up to nature to decide on the best times to fly, depending on lift and conditions. We ask you to be available all day (morning, noon or afternoon). The evening before, our SMS will tell you exactly when you can fly. This flexibility guarantees the best conditions for your first flight.

Transparent, all-inclusive rates

Child flight 90€, ascending flight 130€ (our best-seller), prestige flight 190€ (video included). Video option €30 for the first two packages. All-inclusive price: state-qualified instructor, approved equipment, insurance, parking. No surprises, everything is included!

Getting to Gréolières from Nice

45 minutes via Grasse on a pretty mountain road. Tarmac road in good condition, free parking at take-off. The exact GPS position will be sent to you by SMS at 8pm the day before. Access is easy, even for those unfamiliar with the region.

Weather policy and free reports

Free rescheduling if conditions are not optimal. We never fly "to the limit" just to honour a reservation. Confirmation the day before with choice of site (80% at Gréolières). Reservations valid for 1 full year. Your safety and pleasure come first!

Safety and professionalism

Nice Parapente and Ailéments apply the highest safety standards. No compromise is possible on this point.

Equipment approved and regularly checked

Our gliders are EN certified for tandem flight and undergo full technical checks every 2 years or 100 hours of flight. Thorough visual inspection before each take-off. Rescue parachute serviced annually by an approved professional. Our equipment is our working tool, and we pay the utmost attention to it.

Uncompromising safety protocols

In-depth daily weather analysis, full briefing tailored to each passenger, equipment check and fitness check. If there's the slightest doubt about the conditions, we'll cancel or postpone without hesitation. A little temporary disappointment is better than even the slightest risk.

Comprehensive insurance for your peace of mind

Professional liability and personal accident insurance included for each passenger. Optimum protection from start to finish of your adventure. You're in safe hands, so concentrate on the thrills!

Experienced instructors in Gréolières

Our instructors have accumulated thousands of flying hours at Gréolières, our main site. This intimate knowledge of local conditions, lift and potential pitfalls makes all the difference to your safety and the quality of your flight.

Experience paragliding in Nice with Nice Parapente and Ailéments

Ready for adventure? Nice Parapente and Ailéments welcome you to Gréolières (80% of our flights) for an unforgettable first paragliding experience in the Alpes-Maritimes. Three packages (€90, €130, €190) to suit all profiles, passionate state-qualified instructors, 19 years' experience, flights all year round with top organisation (daily SMS at 8pm).

Book now online or contact us. Nature awaits you up there, between the azure sky and the Mediterranean Sea, for unique sensations and an exceptional panorama. The best paragliding in Nice is here and now!

FAQ - Your questions about paragliding in Nice

How much does a first paragliding flight in Nice cost?

Our prices for paragliding in Nice are transparent: children's flight 90€ (10-15 min, max 25 kg), ascending flight 130€ (20-30 min, our best-seller), prestige flight 190€ (45 min-1h, video included). Video option €30 for the first two packages. All-inclusive price with state-certified instructor, approved equipment and insurance. Mainly at Gréolières, our exceptional site.

Where can you paraglide near Nice?

Nice Parapente and Ailéments mainly fly at Gréolières (80% flights, 45 min from Nice, 1000m altitude, exceptional conditions all year round). Additional sites depending on the weather: Gourdon (40 min, spectacular gorges du Loup) and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin (30 min, view of the Mediterranean Sea). Gréolières is THE reference site for paragliding in Nice, chosen for its reliability and panoramic views.

How does a first paragliding experience work in Nice?

At 8pm the night before, you'll receive an SMS with the GPS point, the precise time slot, payment details and the appropriate clothing. Be available all day (nature decides when is the best time). We generally meet at Gréolières, our main site. Safety briefing, equipment (harness + helmet), gentle take-off, 10-minute to 1-hour flight with Mercantour-Mediterranean views, landing, friendly debriefing. State-certified instructor.

What are the conditions for paragliding in Nice?

Physical condition: able to run a few steps, no major joint problems. Weight: children (15-25 kg), adults (35-90 kg depending on body shape). Minimum age for children: 4-5 years, with parental permission. Sportswear and closed shoes compulsory. No medical certificate required unless contraindicated. All-day availability required. Your precise slot will be communicated by SMS at 8pm the day before.

Why choose Nice Parapente et Ailéments?

Reference partnership for paragliding in Nice. 80% of our flights on Gréolières, an exceptional site with optimal conditions. 19 years of Ailéments experience. Qualified FFVL instructors. 5/5 Google review. Professional organisation with daily SMS at 8pm (GPS, slot, practical information). Flying all year round. Solid reputation throughout the PACA region. Nature decides, we follow!

What's the best season for paragliding in Nice?

Optimum period: October to April (exceptional golden light, stable air, visibility over the snow-covered Mercantour and the Mediterranean, mild temperatures 10-18°C). But paragliding is possible all year round in Nice, thanks to the privileged Mediterranean climate (300 days of sunshine a year) and the excellence of Gréolières on the southern slopes. Ideal conditions all year round, nature is generous here!

How do things work on the big day?

The day before your flight, at 8pm precisely, you'll receive a full text message: the GPS location of the meeting point (usually Gréolières), your precise time slot (morning, noon or afternoon), payment arrangements and appropriate clothing. You need to be available all day, because nature decides on the best flight times according to the lift and conditions. Our detailed weather analysis means we can give you your exact schedule the evening before. Perfectly organised for a stress-free experience!