Paragliding in Arosa
There are few ways to experience the Swiss Alps that compare to seeing them from the air. Tandem paragliding in Arosa launches from the Weisshorn summit at over 2,600 metres and takes you on a quiet, engine-free flight above the village, the frozen lakes, and the surrounding peaks of Graubünden. It is one of the most memorable experiences available to guests of Faern Hotel Altein.
The Flight Experience
Your paragliding experience begins with a ride on the Arosa Weisshorn cable car to the summit station. From here, the panoramic views already stretch in every direction across the alpine landscape. After a short briefing from your tandem pilot, you take a few running steps and lift off from the mountain.
The flight covers approximately 800 metres of altitude difference as you descend from the Weisshorn summit to the landing area in Arosa. Depending on thermal conditions, your pilot may extend the flight by circling in rising air currents, giving you more time to take in the scenery. On calm winter days, the flight path often passes directly over the frozen Obersee lake near the village centre.
The entire experience, including the cable car ride, safety briefing, flight, and landing, takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. The actual airtime varies depending on weather and wind conditions.
No Experience Needed
Tandem paragliding requires no prior flying experience. You fly in a specially designed harness attached to your certified tandem pilot, who manages the entire flight from launch to landing. Your role is simply to enjoy the view.
During the launch, you will need to take a few quick steps at jogging pace, so sturdy footwear with good grip is important. In winter, dress as you would for a day on the slopes: warm layers, gloves, and a hat or headband. Helmets are provided by the operator.
Who Can Fly
Tandem paragliding in Arosa is accessible to a wide range of guests. Children from around seven years of age can fly with parental permission, and there is no strict upper age limit for those in reasonable health. The typical passenger weight range is between 30 and 110 kilograms. If you weigh over 110 kg, are over 65, or have any health concerns, let the operator know when booking so they can make appropriate arrangements.
The activity is suitable for families, couples, and solo travellers looking for something beyond the usual mountain activities.
Booking and Pricing
Tandem paragliding flights in Arosa are operated by experienced local pilots, including Hampe Tandem, who have been flying in the region for many years.
Flight price: CHF 170 per person. A photo and video package is available for an additional CHF 20, giving you professional footage of your flight to take home. A Weisshorn cable car ticket is required for the ascent and is not included in the flight price.
Flights are available throughout the winter season from early December to mid-April, weather permitting. Bookings are made by arrangement with the operator, and the hotel reception at Faern Hotel Altein can assist with reservations and scheduling.
Weather and Conditions
Paragliding is weather dependent. Flights operate in suitable wind and visibility conditions, and your pilot will make the final call on the day. Winter flights often take place on clear, calm mornings when the air is most stable. If conditions are not suitable, your flight can usually be rescheduled to another day during your stay.
The Arosa valley benefits from a sheltered position that often provides favourable flying conditions even when weather is less settled elsewhere in the Alps.
What Makes Arosa Special for Paragliding
Launching from over 2,600 metres gives you one of the highest tandem take-off points in Graubunden. The flight path takes you over a landscape that shifts between snow-covered peaks, dense forest, and the village of Arosa nestled in the valley below. In winter, the frozen lakes and white-dusted rooftops create a scene that looks quite different from the one you see at ground level.
Unlike motorised aerial experiences, paragliding is completely silent apart from the sound of the wind in the canopy. This quiet adds to the sense of flying freely through the mountain landscape, and it means the experience is practised in harmony with the natural environment.
Your Base at Faern Hotel Altein
Faern Hotel Altein is located in the centre of Arosa, a short distance from the Weisshorn cable car where your paragliding adventure begins. The hotel team can help arrange your flight, suggest the best days based on weather forecasts, and ensure your mountain experience is seamlessly planned.
After your flight, unwind in the hotel's extensive wellness area or enjoy a meal in the panoramic top-floor restaurant, reliving the views you just experienced from a rather different angle.
