A Bird’s Eye View of Carinthia: Tandem Paragliding from Gerlitzen
Imagine soaring high above the spectacular Lake Ossiach, with the majestic Julian Alps as your backdrop. This tandem paragliding adventure in Carinthia offers an extraordinary way to see the region’s stunning landscapes from a perspective that’s usually reserved for birds. Starting from the Gerlitzen mountain, the experience includes a gondola ride, a short but thrilling take-off, and at least 20 minutes of flying through the sky, all led by a professional guide.
What we love most about this experience is the unobstructed panoramic views—you’ll be gliding over lakes, castles, and mountain peaks that make you feel like you’re floating in a painting. Plus, the controlled, gentle landing ensures you’ll walk away feeling exhilarated, not exhausted.
A minor consideration is the limited availability—since the flights are scheduled for specific times during the day and are weather-dependent. But if you’re comfortable with heights and physical activity, this tandem flight is suited for most adventurous travelers. It’s particularly perfect for those craving a once-in-a-lifetime view and a taste of freedom in the sky.
This tour is ideal for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone curious about experiencing Austria from above. It’s especially suited for those who want a memorable, scenic thrill without needing prior flying experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Stunning Panorama: Offers breathtaking views of Lake Ossiach, the Wörthersee, and the Julian Alps.
- Accessible Adventure: Suitable for most, with a short briefing and gentle take-off.
- Authentic Experience: Small groups of just 4 participants ensure a more personal, memorable flight.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now, pay later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Professional Guides: Led by fly4you Erich Plieschounig, ensuring safety and a friendly atmosphere.
- Additional Costs: Optional photo and video packages are available to capture your flight.
Exploring the Paragliding Panorama from Gerlitzen: An In-Depth Review
The Location and Approach
The adventure begins at the fly4you Paragliding Center, conveniently located on Moosweg near the Ossiacher See. The take-off point is atop the Gerlitzen mountain, at 1,940 meters above sea level, which guarantees sweeping panoramic views right from the start. To reach the summit, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride on the Gerlitzen Bahn gondola and chairlift, a highlight in itself, offering a splendid ascent with vistas that make the wait worthwhile.
This ascent is part of the experience, giving you a chance to appreciate the region’s natural beauty even before you take to the sky. The gondola ride itself is smooth and provides a preview of the views you’ll later enjoy from above—glistening lakes, lush forests, and distant mountain peaks.
The Takeoff and Safety Briefing
Once at the summit, your guide will conduct a briefing that covers safety and what to expect. The harness adjustment process is explained carefully, and the guide will ensure you’re comfortable before the actual launch. The takeoff is quick—just a few bold steps and a gentle push into the air—and it’s a moment that leaves many travelers with a sense of wonder.
The sensation of lifting off from nearly 2,000 meters is surprisingly smooth. As one reviewer highlighted, the “short but impressive” takeoff is a thrill that sets the tone for the flight ahead.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Flight: Breathtaking Views and Serenity
Once airborne, you experience the freedom of flying, carried aloft by the thermals of the Gerlitzen. The panoramic views are the real star here. You’ll see the glistening Lake Ossiach below, the Wörthersee in the distance, and the Faakersee, which looks like a tranquil mirror. The Karawanken and Julian Alps frame this aerial tableau, making it feel like you’re floating in a living postcard.
We loved the way the guide gently steers the glider, allowing us to take in the scenery at a relaxed pace. The vertical drop of 1,400 meters provides plenty of altitude for expansive views and photo opportunities. The experience lasts at least 20 minutes, giving enough time to savor the sensation of weightlessness and connection with nature.
Landing: Gentle and Controlled
The landing is as calm as the flight itself. The guide gently guides the glider toward the landing site, which is located just below the takeoff point. The descent feels almost weightless, and the final few steps are light and controlled. One reviewer described it as “floating along almost weightlessly until your feet finally touch the ground,” which captures the peaceful ending to this high-flying adventure.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The tandem flight itself is included in the price, offering great value for such a personalized and scenic experience. However, extras like gondola rides (costing around 32 as of 2025) and photo/video packages (starting at 29 or 49 euros) are not included but are worth considering if you want to preserve the memory.
Practical Considerations
The tour is designed for most ages and fitness levels, but it’s not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with specific health issues such as heart problems, claustrophobia, or epilepsy. Participants should wear comfortable clothing, long pants, and sturdy shoes—high heels or flip-flops are a no-go. The activity lasts a total of around 2 hours from meeting to return, with actual flying time of about 20 minutes.
The Booking Experience
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve your spot without immediate payment. This makes it easier to fit this adventure into your travel plans without risk. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of opportunity for questions or camera time.
Authenticity and Reliability
Reviews consistently praise the professionalism of guide Erich Plieschounig and the stunning, unobstructed views. One traveler noted the “breathtaking scenery” and the “unique perspective on Carinthia’s lakes and mountains,” confirming that this activity delivers on its promise of scenic beauty and adventure.
Extra Tips for the Best Experience
- Arrive in comfortable clothes and shoes; layers are wise since mountain air can be cool.
- Consider booking a photo or video package if you want to remember the experience.
- Check the weather forecast—since paragliding is weather-dependent, clear skies make for the best flights.
- Use the gondola ride as a chance to take photos from the summit before takeoff.
Who Should Consider This Experience?
This tandem paragliding flight is perfect for adventurous travelers craving a unique perspective on Austria’s stunning lakes and mountains. It’s suited for most able-bodied adults and older children who are not afraid of heights. If you want a peaceful, scenic, adrenaline-tinged experience and don’t mind a bit of physical activity for the ascent, this is a top choice.
However, it’s not suitable for those with health restrictions or height anxieties. Also, if you’re looking for a longer or more intense technical flying experience, this might be a shorter, more relaxed alternative that still offers plenty of wow-factor.
The Sum Up
This tandem paragliding adventure from Gerlitzen provides an authentic, breathtaking look at Carinthia’s lakes and mountains. The easy ascent via cable car, combined with the smooth takeoff and long, panoramic flight, make it a memorable highlight for any outdoor enthusiast or scenic lover.
The experience’s strength lies in its stunning views and the personal touch of small group sizes. You’ll walk away with a sense of freedom and a camera roll full of postcard-worthy images. While weather can influence scheduling, the effort to participate pays off with one of the most scenic flights in the region.
If you seek a once-in-a-lifetime view, love nature’s beauty, or want an adventure that combines thrill with serenity, this paragliding tour offers great value and unforgettable moments.
FAQ
Is the paragliding flight suitable for beginners?
Yes, the experience is designed for beginners, with a briefing and careful guidance. The takeoff and landing are controlled and gentle.
How long does the entire activity take?
From meeting at the center to returning, expect around 2 hours, with at least 20 minutes of actual flying time.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes, long pants, and sturdy shoes are recommended. Avoid high heels, flip-flops, or open-toed shoes.
Can I book last minute?
Yes, reservations can be made with flexible options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 6 years are not suitable. The experience is best for older children and adults.
What’s the weather policy?
Flights depend on good weather; bad weather can lead to rescheduling or cancellation for safety reasons.
Can I take photos or videos?
Yes, optional photo/video packages are available, but they are not included in the base price.
Is there a weight limit?
Yes, participants should weigh between 50 lbs (23 kg) and 254 lbs (115 kg) for safety reasons.
This paragliding tour offers a rare chance to see Austria’s natural beauty from the sky with safety, professionalism, and a dash of adventure. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply want a spectacular view, it’s a memorable way to experience Carinthia’s landscape.
You can check availability for your dates here: