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Paragliding in Slovenia – where to catch a good thermal

Discover why Slovenia is an attractive destination for paragliders, where the launch sites with the best thermals are and what you need to know before sailing with the wind.

Sail on the wind like a bird

Humans have been longing to fly for centuries. The feeling of freedom and magnificent views of the landscape below are just two reasons why defying gravity is so attractive. One of the ways you can share the sky with birds is by paragliding, a sport that is becoming increasingly popular in Slovenia. The favourable terrain configuration with excellent thermal spots attracts paragliders from all over the world, and at the same time serves as the basis for developing this type of tourist and sports offering throughout Slovenia. Regardless of whether you are planning to fly with a tandem paraglider for the first time or you are an experienced paraglider, you will find true satisfaction in Slovenia.

paragliding_jadralni padalec pred poletom

What do you need to know before flying a paraglider?

Before flying, check the wind direction and speed, and choose the right launch site based on these two factors. Even experienced sky-riders often go to the valley on foot or by cable car when wind conditions are unfavourable.

When flying with a paraglider, the take-off and landing are the key moments. It is ideal when the wind is blowing slightly in your face when you take off. There are strips at the take-off points to help show you the direction of the wind.

When you're in the air, look for thermals, which most often occur along steep hillsides or form below clouds. A special device that beeps when you ascend will help you.

When landing, take note of the direction from which the wind is blowing and land in that direction.

If you do not have enough experience with paragliding, choose a tandem flight with licensed instructors whose experience and knowledge will ensure your greater safety when engaging in this activity.

Top paragliding destinations

You can find quite a few favourable spots for paragliding in Slovenia, where there are 46 registered launch sites. Discover where the most optimal conditions for paragliding are and where you can find the most popular launch sites.

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In addition to launch sites in the Slovenian Alps, good sites for paragliders can also be found in the medium-height mountains – Pohorje, Gorjanci, Zasavje Hills, Polhov Gradec Dolomites…

A paragliding destination attractive even for professionals

In recent years, Slovenia has become a true El Dorado for European and global paragliding competitions. Competitions combining hiking and paragliding (Hike&Fly) have become popular in recent years. The best-known is the cross-Alps race from Salzburg to Monaco, where competitors either fly over or cross the Alps from north to south. Slovenia has been functioning as an intermediate stop for several years. In addition to competitions, Slovenian paragliding locations are visited by paragliding clubs from all over Europe, which organise flights and training for their members there.

Slovenia from a bird's-eye view

In addition to paragliding and hang gliding, you can also see Slovenia from above with tandem parachute jumps. If you like to stay closer to the ground, try flying in wind tunnels.

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Adrenaline experiences that get your heart going

If, in addition to admiring the landscape from above, you also enjoy other adrenaline-filled adventures, then you are in the right place. Slovenia offers a range of adrenaline experiences that will not leave you unimpressed.

Rivers are a playground for adrenaline adventures

Wild river rapids are the perfect testing ground for all adrenaline seekers. Rafting, kayaking, canoeing or something more daring – try out refreshing fun that will get your blood pumping. Explore narrow gorges in a wetsuit and discover the magic of canyoning by going down a waterfall.

More on: Rivers are a playground for adrenaline adventures

Rivers are a playground for adrenaline adventures

Rivers are a playground for adrenaline adventures

Wild river rapids are the perfect testing ground for all adrenaline seekers. Rafting, kayaking, canoeing or something more daring – try out refreshing fun that will get your blood pumping. Explore narrow gorges in a wetsuit and discover the magic of canyoning by going down a waterfall.

More on: Rivers are a playground for adrenaline adventures

Top adrenaline and adventure parks

Top adrenaline and adventure parks

Giant swings, thrilling zip lines, tests of balance and conquering heights... find all of this and more at Slovenia’s adrenaline and adventure parks, spread all over Slovenia.

More on: Top adrenaline and adventure parks

Adrenaline rushes down daring zip lines

Adrenaline rushes down daring zip lines

Did you know that Slovenia has the longest zip line in Europe and the steepest in the world? Go on a daring descent along zip line and enjoy the view of the world below you – over wild gorges, high in the mountains, over riverbeds or over a magnificent ski flying hill.

More on: Adrenaline rushes down daring zip lines

Meet you at a bike park

Meet you at a bike park

Do you love wild descents on mountain bikes? In Slovenia, you will encounter many excellent bike parks, where you can satisfy your adrenaline cravings. Daring jumps, wooden bridges, and other structures, dynamic trails among trees, and other challenges that await you at these parks will really get your pulse going. And don't worry, even if you haven't brought your mountain bike and protective gear along with you, you can always hire them at these parks.

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An underground world for bold explorers

An underground world for bold explorers

Step into the shoes of cave explorers and set out to discover the wonders of the underground world. Explore hidden corners under the earth's surface accompanied by experienced cavers. Get to know the former life of mines in a different, active way. Paddle on underground lakes or through abandoned mine shafts.

More on: An underground world for bold explorers

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