Alright, let’s talk about flying. Not in a metal tube with tiny windows, but really flying – soaring like a bird over one of the most beautiful places on Earth: Lake Como. I’m talking about paragliding, and trust me, it’s an experience that’ll stick with you.
My first time paragliding, I was definitely a bit nervous. It’s a natural reaction when you’re about to run off a mountain with a giant kite strapped to your back.
But the second your feet leave the ground, all that fades away. It’s replaced by this incredible feeling of freedom, like you’re floating on air. It’s surprisingly peaceful, too. This article is your guide to paragliding on Lake Como. I’m going to cover everything you need to know. Stay with me.
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Why, When and Where Paraglide Over Lake Como?
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Honestly, the scenery practically sells itself. Lake Como isn’t just another lake; it’s a masterpiece of nature. Now, imagine seeing all of that from hundreds of feet in the air. You get a perspective you simply can’t get from the ground or even from a boat. It’s a proper “wow” moment.
You can spot famous villas like Villa del Balbianello (you know, the one from Star Wars and Casino Royale) and get a sense of just how grand they are. You can also trace the winding roads that hug the shoreline and see how the villages are tucked into the landscape.
Timing is key for a good paragliding experience:
- Spring (April-May): spring can be a great time to paraglide. The weather is generally getting warmer, the vegetation is lush and green, and there are fewer crowds than in the peak summer months.
- Summer (June-August): this is peak season for Lake Como, and for good reason. The weather is usually warm and sunny, making for ideal paragliding conditions.
- Autumn (September-October): autumn is another excellent time to paraglide. The weather is still generally pleasant, the crowds have thinned out, and the autumn foliage adds a splash of color to the landscape.
- Winter (November-March): paragliding is generally less common in winter due to colder temperatures and less stable weather conditions. Some operators may still offer flights on clear, calm days, but it’s best to check with them directly.
Now, I can’t give you GPS coordinates for every single takeoff point (that’s best left to the professionals), but I can point you in the direction of some popular areas where you’re likely to find paragliding operators. There are two main areas, Menaggio/Western Shore and Varenna/Eastern Shore.
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Choosing Menaggio’s one you will be close to a major town with good transport links and plenty of accommodation options. It’s a good base for a longer stay if you’re planning on doing other activities besides just flying.
Types of Paragliding Experiences
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It’s not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing, and knowing your options can make all the difference between a gentle float and an adrenaline-pumping thrill ride. Basically, there are two main ways to go paragliding on Lake Como: tandem flights and solo flights (if you’re already certified).
Let’s start with Tandem Flights. This is by far the most popular choice, especially for first-timers. Here’s how it works: You’re strapped into a harness that’s connected to the instructor’s harness. You both share one large paraglider wing. The instructor will give you a quick briefing before takeoff, explaining what to expect and how to position yourself. Then, with a few running steps down a gentle slope (usually), you’ll both lift off into the air.
On the contrary, Solo flights are strictly for those who are already certified paragliding pilots. It’s not something you can just jump into without proper training. If you have your paragliding license, Lake Como offers some fantastic flying sites. There’s a greater sense of freedom and accomplishment, but also a greater responsibility.
Paragliding School/Operator on Lake Como
One of the most reliable company that offer this service on Lake Como is Paragliding Lake Como check their website to discover all the informations and opportunities. They only fly in the morning and they are located on the northern shores of the Lake, where wind is more powerful.
What You’ll See Up There: A Bird’s-Eye View of Lake Como
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The main and impressive sight is the one of the Lake. Of course paragliding (even more than an helicopter trip) gives you this new perspective that makes you feel powerful and free, like the world’s ruler. Lake Como becomes little (no, of course, still big) but can be framed like in a unitary vision. More than the lake itself, you can focus on single attractions, depending where you are flying.
If you’re flying near the western branch, you’ll likely see the distinctive terraced gardens and loggia of Villa del Balbianello. It’s instantly recognizable, even from above. Near Tremezzo, keep an eye out for Villa Carlotta‘s expansive botanical gardens. From above, you’ll get a better appreciation for the scale and layout of these beautiful gardens.
Where the three branches of the lake converge, Bellagio is easily spotted. You’ll see the point dividing the lake and the town’s compact layout. Here, the gardens of Villa Melzi d’Eril are also striking from above, with their vibrant colors and carefully designed landscaping.
From natural wonders like Isola Comacina (a wooded island in the western branch) to other interesting sights like the boat traffic and the swimming pools of the luxury hotels and villas.
Beyond the individual landmarks, it’s the overall experience that’s truly remarkable. You’ll get a sense of the scale of the lake and the surrounding landscape, the way everything fits together.
Paragliding Lake Como: Secrets from the Sky
- Look for “Breva” and “Tivano”: these are the local winds on Lake Como. The Breva is a southerly wind that typically blows in the afternoon, while the Tivano is a northerly wind that blows in the morning.
- Spot the “Green Line”: during certain times of the year, a distinct “green line” can sometimes be seen in the water along the shoreline. This is caused by algae growth and can be quite striking from above.
- Bring a Small Pair of Binoculars (Optional, but Fun): while the views are already incredible, a small pair of binoculars can enhance the experience by allowing you to get a closer look at the villas, villages, and other details on the ground.
- Ask about “Winch Launches” (If Available): while most flights on Lake Como are from mountain launch sites, some operators might offer winch launches, which involve being towed into the air by a cable
Take the Leap and Experience the Magic
Paragliding over Lake Como isn’t just another activity; it’s a chance to witness one of Italy’s most iconic landscapes from a truly unique perspective. It’s the feeling of weightlessness combined with the breathtaking panorama of shimmering waters, verdant mountains, and charming villages spread out below. Take the leap and discover the magic of paragliding on Lake Como. You won’t regret it.