In the late 1970’s French pioneers decided that they couldn’t stand looking at those inaccessible and untouched powder fields any longer, they grabbed some kites, hiked up to the top of a mountain and flew down whilst trying to ski at the same time. Bonkers. But no-one knew quite how well it would catch on in years to come. Speedriding, as it is now known, is surprisingly popular in alpine resorts worldwide, particularly in France and Switzerland.
As technology has advanced, so has the sport. Over the years the kites have developed, kites are now made of treated ripstop nylon and the lines made of Kelvar. The kites have shrunk to just half the size of an average paraglider, which means that they can be flown closer to the slope and in windier environments. The average speedrider will travel at approximately half the speed of a paraglider – from 20 to 90mph.
With an estimated 3,000 – 5,000 speed wing pilots worldwide, the speed riding community is still relatively small. However if you’d like to become a member of this elite club then there is an easy way to get started. Parapenting (the French term for paragliding) is currently available in most luxury ski resorts in Europe and is the perfect way to find out if speedriding is really for you – before getting down to the risky business of actually doing it!
Here are just a handful of luxury ski resorts in the Alps where parapenting is possible;
Known as the capital of extreme sports, Chamonix was bound to be in this list! The resort, which sits at the foot of the Mont Blanc hosts a broad range of different sports throughout the summer and winter, and of course parapenting is one of these! There are a huge number of companies that offer parapenting in the resort such as Les Ailes du Mont Blanc and Absolute Chamonix.
The birthplace of outstanding mountaineers and Gruyère cheese, this resort is perfect for those seeking a thrill! Zermatt is a popular destination throughout both the summer and winter, the picturesque car-free village and stunning views of the alpine meadows and towering Matterhorn drawing in hundreds of thousands of tourists every year. What better way to appreciate the beautiful views but from the sky? Again, a lot of companies exist in Zermatt that would be delighted to take you for a flight, such as Alpine Adventures and Fly Zermatt.
Right at the centre of the Arlberg ski region lies the snowy paradise of St. Anton. With Tyrolean traditions alive and well alongside the more modern apres-ski activities such as partaking in some table dancing in the Mooserwirt. However St. Anton is also known for its aesthetics, and gives extreme sports enthusiasts the opportunity to either indulge in either parapenting (through Flight Connection) or something a little bit different, the Para Powder Expedition which will fly you to a remote location with untouched snow, because let’s face it – no-one likes to share on a powder day!
If speedriding or parapenting sounds like your kind of thing, then why not give us a call and arrange your luxury ski holiday on +44 (0)1202 203 650 or send us an email.
