Paragliding (Parapente)

Paragliding (Parapente) took its name from the french words “parachute” and pente (mountain side). It originated in the ’60s from the NASA programme, but practically it was established in the mid ’80’s in France.

The sport requires good physical condition, excellent technique, mental clarity and peace of mind perceptivity, as well as knowledge of meteorology and aerodynamics ( the latter being provided by special instructors). Depending on the weather, the parapente (paraglider) can reach a height of 4.000 metres and cover distance of 2-2,5 km. The flights last a couple of hours and speed ranges from 48 to 60km/h.

Greece has the ideal climate for parapente flights, since the drier the climate of an area or country is, the better it is for the development of the sport.

For more information regarding hang gliding and parapente in Greece, local clubs and the various events held all over the country, contact the:

Hellenic Air Sports Federation (HASF)
P.B. 70262 Glyfada, 166 10 – Athens
Tel: +30 210 9649 788, +30 210 9649 876 – fax: +30 210 9649 547

Link to Hellenic Air Sports Federation http://www.elao.gr/web/index.html
Link to Paragliding Commitee http://paragliding.elao.gr/