Paragliding Castellane

Paragliding Castellane : take off at Gréolières to the The Verdon gorges

For paragliding from Castellane, head to Gréolières – it’s 45 minutes away! Spectacular views Mediterranean and Mercantour, exceptional elevation, school certified by the FFVL since 2013. State-certified instructors, taster sessions from 100 €.

  • From €100
  • 45 min · Route Napoléon
  • +250 days of flying/year
  • +1070 reviews ★★★★★
Tandem paragliding flight (Gréolières) at the gateway to the Verdon from Castellane (Ailéments) Castellane 04
  • Recommended siteGréolières · 1,800 m
  • From Castellane45 min · Route Napoléon
  • Flight from100 € · Child Fare
  • Flights/day+250 days
  • AgeFrom 4 years · max 90 kg

Castellane, gateway to the Gorges du Verdon in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, is an ideal starting point for discovering the paragliding. 45 minutes away by Route Napoléon panoramic, the site of Gréolières est imposé comme le lieu de référence.

Sites exist in Castellane itself (La Baume, Cadières de Brandis), but they are For experienced pilots only, with no official landing. For a safe first flight, Gréolières offers a 1,000 m climb and flights lasting between 30 and 60 minutes.

And the region is brimming with adventures: canyoning in Castellane, Gorges du Verdon, Lake Castillon… Also consult our guide What to do in Castellane.

On the edge of the Gorges du Verdon, Castellane is a 45-minute drive from Gréolières via the Route Napoléon Panoramic. At the end of the road, over 1,000m of elevation gain and flights lasting between 10 and 60 minutes over the Préalpes d'Azur, between the Mediterranean and Mercantour — a mountain getaway for the residents of the Verdon.

This guide : the recommended site, local sites, packages, the process, and the complete FAQ.

A paragliding flight utilising thermal lift at Gréolières in the Azur Pre-Alps, starting from Castellane
Takeoffs

Where to fly from Castellane?

To be perfectly clear: the Castellan sites are reserved for experienced pilots. For a first flight, the best choice is Gréolières — safety, elevation and an on-site school.

Recommended · 45 min

Gréolières site (1,800 m)

1,000 m of elevation gain Flights of 30-60 mins (compared to 15-20 mins elsewhere), exceptional conditions all year round, site suitable for all levels.

Our school is based in the village, at the edge of the landing strip. Travel by Route Napoléon.

Experienced drivers

La Baume · Cadières de Brandis

There are sites in Castellane itself, but For experienced pilots only and without an official landing.

For a first flight from Castellane, Gréolières offers the highest standards of safety and quality.

  • La Mediterranean on the one hand, the peaks of Mercantour on the other
  • The Pré-Alps of the Azure and their perched villages
  • The ridges of the Cheiron and the Loup valley
  • And on the way back: the Gorges du Verdon and the Lake of Castillon near Castellane

There are paragliding sites around Castellane (La Baume, Cadières de Brandis), but these are reserved for independent pilots and have no official landing areas. For a supervised and safe first flight, Gréolières is the obvious choice: south-facing, with steady breezes, over 250 flyable days per year and a school at the foot of the landing strip. The extra fifteen minutes' drive quickly becomes part of the adventure.

And the area doesn't lack for arguments to make the day a real outing: the Gorges du Verdon, Lake Castillon, the hilltop villages of Haut-Verdon, or canyoning for the more adventurous.

Once in the air, the view stretches far and wide: from the snow-covered Mercantour to the Mediterranean, taking in the limestone ridges of the Cheiron and the villages clinging to the mountainside. It is one of the few places where, in a single flight, you can take in both the sea and the mountain peaks. Many people make the most of it by turning the trip into a full day out: a stop in a hilltop village, a picnic by the water’s edge, or an outdoor activity.

In flight

Gréolières seen from the air

The Mediterranean, Mercantour and the Pre-Alps: a glimpse of what to expect on your first flight. Souvenir video option available (+€30), included in the Prestige flight.

The Mediterranean, Mercantour and the Pre-Alps: as soon as you take off, a 360° panorama unfolds. The on-board camera, held by your instructor, captures the big jump, the turns over the ridges and the gentle landing. It’s the best way to relive the flight and share it once you’re back on the Verdon side.

Our formulas

Our paragliding packages in Castellane

From gentle child fares to long-haul premium flights, a formula for baptism For every desire. All-inclusive prices: equipment, instructor, insurance.

Child flight

10-15 mins · Ages 4+

100 €
Book

Ascending flight

20-30 min · All audiences

140 €
Book

Para and Canyon Combo

A day · 2 activities

190 € /pers
Book

Prestige flight

45-60 min · Video included

250 €
Book
Walk & Fly 200 € Educational flight 250 € Paragliding on skis 100 € Video option +30 €

Each formula targets a desire: the Child flight (morning, from 4 years) gently, the Ascending flight best-seller for the ascendancies, the Educational flight and the Walk & Fly to give piloting a try, the Paragliding on skis winter since Gréolières 1400, and the Prestige flight Long-term hire with 4K video. Everything is included - certified equipment, state-certified instructor, insurance.

D-Day

How does a paragliding flight work?

A simple and reassuring experience, guided from start to finish by your state-certified instructor. Appointment confirmed by SMS the day before.

Confirmation the day before

Text message with the GPS coordinates of the meeting point at Gréolières and the schedule, subject to weather conditions.

Route Napoléon

A 45-minute scenic drive from Castellane – the journey is part of the adventure.

Briefing & equipment

Safety instructions, harness, helmet. A few running steps into the wind and you are flying.

Take-off & landing

30 to 60 mins depending on the package, then gently set down in the Wolf Valley.

In flight, nothing is mandatory: one can take control a few turns, request some stunts, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. Upon landing, the instructor takes time for a debrief and gives you the video if you've ordered it. No physical fitness is required: a short run is all that's needed, and the flight is tailored to your mood on the day.

Gréolières offers flying almost all year round, with optimal conditions in spring and autumn, early-morning flights in summer and lovely clear days in winter. As we’re coming from Castellane, the meet-up is confirmed the day before by text message depending on the weather, and rescheduling is free — you only pay once you’re back on the ground.

Christening is truly for everyone: families with children from 4 years old, couples, groups of friends or for a birthday or hen do. EVJF, with dedicated time slots. No physical preparation is needed – the instructor pilots, you enjoy – and each person sets their own pace, from a gentle flight to stunts for thrill-seekers. Many leave wanting to do it again, and some take the plunge and sign up for an autonomy course. All with no commitment: we confirm the day before depending on the weather, and you only pay once you've landed.

All in all, paragliding from Castellane with Gréolières offers a wonderful getaway: 45 minutes along the Route Napoléon, long flights over the Préalpes d’Azur, and the Verdon as a backdrop on the way back. All that remains is to choose your package, book your date and let yourself be carried away — the Verdon on one side, the Mercantour on the other, and the Mediterranean in the distance.

Our expertise

Recognised expertise in paragliding from Castellane

Not a tourist trap Family school certified by the FFVL Founded in 2013, based at Gréolières on the edge of the landing area. Instructors hold the DEJEPS state qualification, reserve parachutes, daily weather analysis, equipment inspected at the'workshop.

Over 6,000 volumes completed without serious accident, +1070 5/5 reviews. Free weather report, payment on-site after the activity, no upfront fees.

Do you have a question? Contact us you call the 06 87 68 71 90 (Via WhatsApp).

Book my flight
DEJEPS Ailéments instructor on a tandem paragliding flight with a Gréolières near Castellane
Offer

Paragliding gift voucher in Castellane

Offer a paragliding gift voucher Valid for 12 months, sent by email or post, usable for christenings and training courses. Perfect for gifting a flight to your loved ones in Castellane.

Do you have a question? Contact us.

Order a gift voucher
Gift voucher for a paragliding baptism in Castellane Ailéments
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about paragliding in Castellane

Sites, Napoleon Route journey, season, age, weight, outfit, weather, video, booking, Verdon, courses.

Where can you paraglide from Castellane?

Gréolières, to 45 minutes' drive 1,000 m of elevation gain, optimal conditions all year round, FFVL school since 2013. Site suitable for everyone from beginner to advanced.

Why Gréolières for paragliding from Castellane?

1,000 m of elevation gain = 30-60 minute flights (compared to 15-20 minutes elsewhere), exceptional conditions all year round, local school on-site since 2013. The best value for distance.

Are there paragliding sites directly in Castellane?

Yes (La Baume, Cadières de Brandis) but For experienced pilots only, with no official landing. For a first flight: Gréolières, optimum safety and quality.

How long does it take from Castellane to Gréolières?

45 minutes via the panoramic Route Napoléon. From Digne-les-Bains: 1 hour 15 minutes. From Grasse 40 min. The journey is part of the adventure.

When is the best time to fly from Castellane?

All year round — +250 flying days. Spring: ideal conditions. Summer: morning flights. Autumn: consistent thermals. Winter: exceptional visibility.

What is the minimum age for a first paragliding experience?

From age 4 with the formula Child flight, in the morning (calm conditions). No upper age limit provided you are physically fit enough. Details: Minimum age for paragliding.

What is the maximum weight for paragliders?

90 kg (Two-seater equipment certification). Close to the limit? Contact us.

What should I wear for a paragliding flight?

Closed-toe shoes, long trousers, a windproof jacket and a light jumper (it gets chilly at altitude). An approved helmet and harness are provided.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Free deferral on a date of your choice, no fees. SMS the day before. With 250+ flight days, it's easy to postpone.

Can I film my paragliding flight?

Yes, option GoPro video + €30 (included in the Prestige Flight): take-off, view of the Mediterranean and Mercantour, landing. HD file on your phone.

How do I book a paragliding flight from Castellane?

Online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or by phone and WhatsApp at 06 87 68 71 90. Confirmation within 24 hours. Gift card valid for 1 year.

Can I combine paragliding with other activities?

Yes canyoning in Castellane, the Riolan and Saint-Auban canyons, hiking, the Gorges du Verdon, hilltop villages, and swimming in the lake in summer.

Is it possible to learn to fly after a first flight?

Yes, Gréolières training courses: Discovery course (1 day, €260), Initiation (5 days, €700), Further training (5 days, €750), up to the patent. See our paragliding courses in the PACA region.

Do other residents of Castellane come to steal from Gréolières?

Yes, many residents of Castellane and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence are members of Gréolières: an active PACA community with regular social events and a friendly atmosphere.

In summary

The essentials of paragliding in Castellane

4 key points for your flight to the gateway of the Verdon.

  1. 1

    Gréolières, 45 mins · Route Napoléon

    The reference spot from Castellane: Gréolières, 1,000 m elevation gain, flights lasting 30–60 minutes, school at the foot of the landing area.

  2. 2

    Local sites = experienced drivers

    La Baume and Les Cadières de Brandis do exist, but there is no official landing site. For a safe first flight, head for Gréolières.

  3. 3

    From €100 · Courses from €260

    Child flight €100, Ascendant €140 ★, Prestige €250. Discovery courses €260, Beginner €700, Advanced €750.

  4. 4

    Verdon + flying: the perfect combination

    Gorges du Verdon, Castillon Lake, canyoning in Castellane — and the Gréolières sky at 45 minutes. FFVL School, over 6,000 flights without any serious accidents.

OUR TESTIMONIALS

Real experiences, real memories, real adventures

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Harley Hillier
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Would recommend, was good fun and the instructor was very funny.
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Laurent Roussel
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Une très bonne agréable surprise pour mon enfant de 13 ans qui a kiffé son vol. Encadrement et prestation au top. Je recommande
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Delphine Pillon
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Une expérience absolument inoubliable ! 🪂✨ J’ai réalisé mon tout premier vol en parapente à Gréolières avec Ailéments, et je ne pouvais pas rêver d’une plus belle découverte. J’avais un peu d’appréhension avant de décoller, mais tout a été fait avec énormément de bienveillance, de professionnalisme et de pédagogie. Je me suis sentie en confiance dès les premières minutes. Le vol Prestige a été tout simplement magique : décollage depuis les crêtes du Cheiron, vol au-dessus des montagnes, ascendance dans les thermiques, et surtout cette sensation indescriptible de liberté et de calme, suspendue dans le ciel avec un paysage absolument incroyable sous les yeux. J’ai été particulièrement touchée par la douceur du vol. Je m’attendais à quelque chose de très impressionnant et finalement, j’ai découvert une expérience profondément paisible et contemplative. Un immense merci à l’équipe pour cette parenthèse hors du temps, et tout particulièrement à Pierre-Yves pour sa gentillesse, ses explications et sa capacité à mettre immédiatement en confiance. Pour un premier vol, je ne pouvais pas rêver mieux. Je reviendrai sans hésiter pour découvrir d’autres sites et d’autres sensations ! ❤️
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Vincent Cesaro
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Une équipe vraiment formidable ! Les trois moniteurs ont été très sympathiques, très professionnels et particulièrement rassurants. Ils prennent le temps de tout expliquer clairement et savent immédiatement mettre en confiance. Tout était parfaitement organisé et le vol était absolument génial : une expérience beaucoup plus douce que je ne l’imaginais, avec des sensations magnifiques. J’ai vraiment adoré ce baptême en parapente et je les recommande sans hésitation !
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Melanie Tydlitat
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Mon fils de 13 ans a fait son baptême de parapente, et nous en sommes ravis! Très chouette équipe sympa et dynamique. Un grand merci a vous! Je recommande avec plaisir!
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Chloé DESBOIS
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Une expérience inoubliable avec une équipe incroyable !
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Valentin Vermeirsche
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Une super journée du début à la fin ! Une équipe au top, professionnelle, accueillante et vraiment sympathique. On se sent rapidement en confiance, que ce soit pour le canyoning ou le parapente. Un grand merci à toute l’équipe pour cette superbe expérience, et tout particulièrement à Pierrot pour sa gentillesse, sa bonne humeur et sa pédagogie. Il a su nous mettre à l’aise, nous accompagner parfaitement et rendre cette journée encore plus mémorable. Une expérience que je recommande sans hésiter ! Merci encore à toute l’équipe et à très bientôt peut-être pour une nouvelle aventure ! 🪂🌊
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Alexandre Dnf
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Un grand merci à Pierrot et Pierre-Yves qui ont été au top du début à la fin. Leur professionnalisme et leur bienveillance mettent immédiatement en confiance. Expérience incroyable, que du kiff, à faire au moins une fois dans sa vie ! Vous pouvez y aller les yeux fermés, je recommande à 100 % !
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jcg
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Une très belle expérience de vol libre le long des crêtes du Cheiron. Une équipe de professionnels d’une grande gentillesse attentive à gérer la moindre pointe d’appréhension. Respect des horaires et des informations fournies. Nos petites filles et nous même grands parents avons adoré. À recommander vivement. jcg.
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John Bee
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Super accueil et chouette moment avec Pierrot et Pierre-Yves. Equipe à l'écoute, très pédagogue et très professionnelle tout en étant sympathique ! Merci pour le vol ✌️
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THE SITES

Where can I go paragliding around Castellane?

  • Alpes-Maritimes (06)