If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, look no further than paragliding in Bulgaria! This beautiful country is home to some of the best paragliding spots in Europe. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paraglider, Bulgaria has something to offer everyone. This blog post will explore the best places to paraglide in Bulgaria, as well as go over different schools and services. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Bulgarian paragliding adventure today!
Top 8 Sites for Paragliding in Bulgaria
Bulgaria is quickly becoming one of the most popular paragliding destinations in Europe. With its varied terrain and wide range of conditions, Bulgaria offers something for everyone, from beginners to experts. The best time to go paragliding in Bulgaria is from May to September when the weather is warm and stable. However, there are also a number of paragliding schools and service providers that operate year-round.
Some of the most popular places to go paragliding in Bulgaria include Sopot, Zlatitsa, the Vitosha Mountains, and others. Each of these areas offers its own unique challenges and rewards, making them well worth exploring. So whether you’re a beginner looking to take your first flight or an experienced paraglider looking for new adventures, be sure to add Bulgaria to your list.
Sopot
Sopot is a small town located at the southernmost point of Stara Planina, which is the longest mountain chain in Bulgaria that spans 560 km from west to east. Sopot usually enjoys good weather conditions for flying due to its location near the Black sea. There is a valley called the Valley of Roses next to the mountain range.
The main take-off has a cable lift that takes you up to 850 m in just minutes. You can use this time to practice thermalling, acrobats, or simply fly around for some breathtaking views. Sopot is a prime destination for XC fans due to its ease of accessibility and many valley landings. The locals are always willing to help out, which makes it even more appealing!
Paragliding World Cup in Bulgaria
Bulgaria has become a paragliding hotspot in recent years, and the 2013 paragliding world cup was a great opportunity to showcase the country’s potential to the world. Over 100 pilots from all around the globe descended on Sopot for the competition, and they were not disappointed. The area offers fantastic paragliding conditions, and the pilots were able to show off their skills to the spectators. The event was a great success, and it is hoped that it will help to put Bulgaria firmly on the paragliding map.
Zlatitsa
Zlatitsa is a small town located in central Bulgaria, about 100 km from the capital city of Sofia. It is situated in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains, which makes it a popular destination for paragliders and hang gliders alike. There are at least 10 launch spots on the mountain plateau, which vary in difficulty based on your level. In good wind conditions, soaring is an amazing experience – people can gain several hundred meters of altitude within minutes. The landing area is a vast grassy field that makes it easy for beginner pilots to land after their first high-altitude flight.
The take-off point is approximately 1.5 hours from Sofia, so be prepared to scale a two-hour incline – which isn’t easy when you’re lugging a glider on your back. Although, there’s a kindhearted minibus driver that will transport you for 5 euros per person.
Vitosha Mountain
Vitosha Mountain is a popular paragliding destination located just 20 minutes from the capital city of Sofia. This mountain is unique in that it’s the only paragliding site in Bulgaria that’s easily accessible by public transport. There are two main take-off points, one at Aleko (about 1,100 m) and another at Konyarnika (roughly 1,400 m). The flying conditions here are great for beginners as the thermals are strong and there are many landing options. You can also find a number of paragliding schools in Vitosha, which offer tandem flights and other services.
Sliven
Sliven is a city located in southeastern Bulgaria, about 100 km from the Black sea. The paragliding conditions here are some of the best in the country – with strong thermals and excellent views. There are two main take-off points near Sliven, one at Krichim (1,100 m) and another at Tsarichina (1,300 m). Both offer great flying conditions and stunning views.
However, it has a small and difficult take-off point that is only appropriate for experienced flyers. The rocks make it too dangerous for beginners. The maximum height difference is 800m, but the average is 1016m. You can get there by car or cable car, or you can walk if you’re feeling adventurous. There are 1- and 2-seater options available, both with an open-seat design.
Okolchitsa
Okolchitsa is a small village located in the Rhodope mountains of Bulgaria. It’s a beautiful area with great paragliding potential. The take-off point is situated at an altitude of 1,060 m, and there are several landing options depending on the wind direction. The ramp start for gliders is located at an easily accessible spot by car.
Parking is available right at the start, and there are options for 1- or 2-seaters. The views from up in the air are simply breathtaking, and paragliding is a great way to get an adrenaline rush. If you’re looking for a unique paragliding experience, Okolchitsa is definitely worth a visit.
Dobrostan
Bulgaria is quickly becoming a paragliding mecca, with Dobrostan leading the way. This picturesque village located in the Balkan mountains offers incredible views and excellent paragliding potential.
The take-off point rests at an impressive 1,249 m off the ground, with several landing options depending on wind direction. Gliders will find the ramp start easily accessible and the area well-suited for all levels of experience. With its stunning scenery and great paragliding conditions, Dobrostan is sure to please any thrill seeker looking for an adrenaline rush.
Albena
Albena is a Black sea resort town located in northeastern Bulgaria. It’s a popular destination for paragliding, as the thermals are strong and the views are simply stunning. There are two main take-off points in Albena – one at Padaerite (1,200 m) and another at Kamen Bryag (1,500 m).
Both offer great flying conditions and beautiful views. However, Padaerite is more suitable for beginners as it has a wider landing area. Kamen Bryag is more suited for experienced flyers, as the landing area is narrower and surrounded by trees. If you’re looking for a paragliding adventure, Albena is the perfect place to start.
Topola
The village of Topola is another nearby destination, located just 30 kilometers from Varna and very close to the Albena resort. It’s a great place for paragliding, with thermals that are strong and reliable.
The take-off point is situated nearby the sea, with several landing options depending on the wind direction. There is also a ramp start for gliders, which makes it easily accessible for all levels of experience. With its beautiful scenery and great flying conditions, Topola is a paraglider’s paradise.
Schools of Soaring and Tandem Paragliding in Bulgaria
Paragliding is a popular extreme sport in Bulgaria and there are many schools that offer lessons. If you want to learn how to paraglide, you can fly with an experienced instructor at one of these popular paragliding schools. These schools offer lessons for all levels, from beginners to experienced paragliders. Whether you want to paraglide for fun or a competition, these schools can help you reach your goals.
BULGARIA PARAGLIDING
Location: Eurawest Technologies, 68 Rayko Daskalov Str., 2nd floor Office 8 4000, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
Phone: +359876901766
Web: bulgariaparagliding.com
FLY BANSKO
Location: Jaco Walk Shopping Center, Local 11 Puntarenas Jaco, 61101, Costa Rica
Phone: +359 89 789 9370
Web: banskoextreme.com
SKY ADVENTURE
Location: Dimitar Dimov, 8000 Burgas, Bulgaria
Phone: +359 988 364380
Web: sky-adventure.net
FAQs about Paragliding in Bulgaria
Is paragliding safe in Bulgaria?
Paragliding is safe when practiced with caution and under the guidance of an experienced instructor. However, as with any extreme sport, there is always some risk involved.
What is the best time of year for paragliding in Bulgaria?
The best time for paragliding in Bulgaria is from April to October. The weather is generally more stable during these months, with less wind and fewer storms.
How much does it cost to go paragliding in Bulgaria?
The cost of paragliding in Bulgaria varies depending on the school you choose and the length of the lesson. However, you can expect to pay around 50-70 BGN (about 30-40 EUR) for a one-hour lesson.
Do I need to be physically fit to go paragliding in Bulgaria?
No, you don’t need to be physically fit to go paragliding. However, it is important to be in good health and have a reasonable level of fitness. If you have any health concerns, please consult your doctor before booking a paragliding lesson.
What should I wear for paragliding in Bulgaria?
You should dress for the weather conditions on the day of your paragliding lesson. In general, it’s best to wear comfortable clothing that you can move around in easily. If it’s cold, you may want to wear layers of clothing that you can remove if necessary.
Do I need the experience to paraglide?
No, you don’t need any experience to paraglide. Many schools offer lessons for all levels, from beginners to experienced flyers.
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