Spent the day paragliding around the 19th century Neuschwanstein Castle, which was the castle that inspired the Disney stories.
The cable car up to the launch site was a pleasant ride to the summit of Schwangau (2,150m). Taking 10 minutes to get to the top you get insane views of Neuschwanstein Castle and the Ammer Mountains. However, looking back down filled us with trepidation. I spent the majority of the take off willing us off the ground! Aided by the instructor, we suddenly felt an upsurge sending us dramatically scaling the slopes. The view overlooking the castle was so stunning. Being amongst the clouds and falling back down into focus of the castle, captured the fairy tale setting completely.
The Runway
This is the scariest part of the trip, as there is nothing but a huge drop down into absolutely nothing. As you are building up fast for lift off, the instructor forcibly instructs you to ”to not stop running” During the trip you glide over the Schwangau valley, over the castle and onto glacial lakes. The trip takes 30 minutes, where you end at the valley station.”, I’d do as I say I was you! There is no turning back or you’d be 200$ out of pocket. It’s go time!
With legs pumping, suddenly the run way disappears from beneath us. Making a sharp upturn, the parachute catches the wind and there you are; flying! Flying around the German alps, you sit back and enjoy the ride!
The runway into the abyss
The Experience
Zig-zagging your way through the mountains, it seems absolutely fitting that Walt Disney got his castle idea from this place. After finally landing, (by falling into a heap on the mountain side!), we were a little battered and bruised but knew the experience of paragliding over the Neuschwanstein Castle was all worth it. Fly Royal Paragliding are a popular company to go for. The company’s instructors Dennis and David are really knowledgeable and take you through in detail all the safety precautions that need to be understood.
Kiki from Utah recently did the flight and had this to say.
The views are fantastic and it’s really cool to see the castle from above. If you’re in the area this is a must do!
During the trip you glide over the Schwangau valley, over the castle and onto glacial lakes. The trip takes 30 minutes, where you end at the valley station.
Neuschwanstein Castle
High up in the Bavarian hills, a palace has stood majestically for nearly 150 years. Built upon ruins from a previous castle, Ludwig II of Bavaria (the king of Bavaria) commissioned the building of the palace, The design reflects how typical German knights’ castles looked at the time and also the enthusiasm the King had for the composer Richard Wagner. Whose musical pieces the king thought conjured up images and feelings that the castle brings out.
The King speaking about the location of the castle.
The location is one of the most beautiful to be found, holy and unapproachable
The castle also served as an important place for the Nazi’s during WW2 as storage for when they extensively plundered the French. The most significant items, were works of art stolen from French Museums. The Nazi’s has wanted to blow up the castle, but thankfully that plan was not realised.
Important Information about the flight
Activity requirements
Minimum weight: 40kg
Maximum weight: 95kg
Special terms
Parental consent required for children under the age of 16.
If you want make a booking, you can do it here.
