Murren – Lauterbrunnen Paragliding Tandem Flights

A launch from Birg puts you high above the Lauterbrunnen Valley, with the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau in view and waterfalls dropping down the valley walls. The flight is a panorama route, not just a short glide over one village: it aims to pass Gimmelwald, Mürren and the Trümmelbach waterfalls before landing in Stechelberg.

I like two things in particular: the chance to see the valley’s cliffs and villages from an entirely different angle, and the option to take the controls under your pilot’s supervision. The main caveat is that the gondola ticket is extra, and wind or other weather conditions can alter the launch plan.

At a glance: the parts that matter

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• Birg is the summer launch site. The takeoff is at about 2,700 meters, reached by cable car and a walk of roughly 10 to 15 minutes.
• Winter flights use Schilgrat. This launch point is at about 2,100 meters, so the route and starting height differ by season.
• The planned flight covers several valley sights. Expect a route over Gimmelwald and Mürren, with the Trümmelbach waterfalls among the highlights, then a landing in Stechelberg.
• The flight itself may last about 20 to 30 minutes. The full outing takes longer, and timing depends on weather and the schedule confirmed for your booking.
• Bring sturdy shoes and warm layers. You need to walk to the launch area, and you’ll be up high even when the valley feels mild.
• The gondola fare is not included. Check the cost and the exact meeting arrangement before you go.

A high launch above Lauterbrunnen

This flight begins in the mountains, rather than down in Interlaken. In summer, the cable car takes you up to Birg, at about 2,700 meters, followed by a short walk to the launch site. In winter, the stated takeoff is Schilgrat, at around 2,100 meters. That change matters: your starting point, views and walk to takeoff can vary with the season.

The height is part of the appeal. From the launch area, you’re set up to see the great peaks of the Bernese Alps, including the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau. Below, the valley narrows between steep walls, with villages and waterfalls giving the scenery a human scale. It’s a fine contrast: vast mountain faces overhead, small rooftops and paths far below.

There is a short walk to the takeoff site, described as about 10 to 15 minutes. One account of the outing found the path rough and steep, so don’t treat it like a stroll in town. Wear shoes you can walk and run in, and ask the operator about current ground conditions if you have concerns.

From briefing to takeoff

At the launch site, you’ll get a brief explanation and have about five minutes to get ready. You fly in a dual paraglider with a certified professional instructor, who handles the flight and guides you through the process. You’ll need to follow the takeoff instructions, which include running when told. That quick burst of effort is a small but important part of getting airborne.

Once in the air, the experience shifts from the brisk launch to a quieter glide. The pilot steers the paraglider through the route, while you can take in the peaks, cliffs and valley floor. If you want to try the controls, the activity offers that option under the pilot’s supervision. Aerobatic maneuvers are available on request, but ask your pilot about them rather than assuming they are part of every flight.

Weather is the key variable. The schedule may change with traffic and conditions, and a flight may be delayed or moved if the air is unsuitable. A group has described reaching a launch area only to be told there wasn’t enough airflow, with some of the party launching from another spot. That sort of change can be frustrating, especially after paying for the cable car and hiking uphill. Before setting out, ask what happens if the planned launch is not usable and whether the alternative requires another walk or extra transport.

The panorama: Gimmelwald, Mürren and waterfalls

The route is designed to show more than a single view. From the air, the pilot aims to visit different parts of the valley, passing over Gimmelwald and Mürren and heading toward the Trümmelbach waterfalls. Those villages are especially compelling from above: their position on the valley’s steep sides is easier to understand when you can see how the settlements sit against the mountain walls.

The waterfalls are a major reason to choose this flight over a more general mountain view. The Trümmelbach falls are part of the route, and the valley has waterfalls scattered along its cliffs. Your exact line of flight depends on conditions, but you can tell your pilot which sights matter most to you. One flyer who mentioned being impressed by the waterfalls was taken toward several of them. It’s worth speaking up, politely and early, rather than hoping the pilot guesses what you want to see.

The Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau provide the grand backdrop. You’ll see peaks that many people reach by train, but here the view comes from the air, with no carriage window between you and the mountains. This is not a substitute for a mountain railway or a hike. It offers a different perspective: a short, open-air passage across a broad alpine scene.

Landing in Stechelberg

After the panorama route, the flight ends at the Stechelberg landing field. The planned landing location is useful when arranging the rest of your day, since you finish in the valley rather than returning to the launch point. The meeting and return details, however, are not entirely straightforward: the departure information names the Mürren cable car station, while the flight description says the activity starts from the Stechelberg cable car.

Confirm your exact meeting point and transport plan before travel. Also check how your chosen departure time lines up with the listed return slots. The available times vary with the departure you book and the activity’s duration. Don’t build a tight connection around a guessed finish time, since weather and operating conditions can change the schedule.

What to wear and bring

Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes with enough grip for the walk to takeoff. You may need to move over uneven ground and run briefly at launch, so sandals and smooth-soled shoes are poor choices. The operator has advised participants to bring trekking shoes and warm clothing.

Pack long sleeves and long trousers, even if the day starts warm in the valley. At altitude, the air can feel cooler, and you’ll be exposed while flying. One participant wore a sweatshirt and track pants and was comfortable, and an instructor lent a weatherproof jacket. Treat that jacket as a helpful possibility, not a guaranteed part of the package; bring your own layers.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, consider taking your usual preventive medicine before the flight. A flyer who expected a calm ride felt more motion sick than anticipated. You can also tell your pilot how you feel and ask about the route before takeoff.

Photos and videos are available for an additional charge, not included in the base price. If you plan to buy them, make sure your phone has enough free storage for the files. The activity information also says outside food and drinks are not allowed, so don’t plan to bring snacks or drinks onto the experience.

Is the price worth it?

The advertised price starts at $253.49, while the package details also show a price from US$230.45. Since those amounts differ, check the current checkout price for your date and package. The gondola ticket is an additional cost, and a separate booking party reported paying about US$72 for that ride. Treat that figure as a warning to confirm the current fare, not as a guaranteed price.

The value is strongest if you want the flight itself to be a central part of your Jungfrau-region visit. You’re paying for a certified tandem pilot, insurance provided by the operator, and a route planned around several of the valley’s signature sights. The chance to steer under supervision adds a small participatory element, while optional aerobatics may suit people who want a more thrilling ride.

The cost is harder to justify if you’re mainly after a quick aerial view and haven’t budgeted for the cable car. You’ll also want to allow time for the approach to the launch point and for weather-related changes. The flight has been estimated at about 20 to 30 minutes, but the wider outing takes longer. Confirm the schedule and total transport costs before comparing it with other paragliding options near Interlaken.

Who should book this flight?

This experience suits people who want a close look at the Lauterbrunnen Valley from the air, especially anyone keen to see waterfalls and villages beneath the high peaks. It’s also a good fit if you’d like a tandem flight with a professional instructor but don’t want to be only a passenger: you can ask to try the controls under supervision.

It may not be right for you if you’re pregnant, since the activity is not recommended during pregnancy, or if motion sickness is a serious concern. Participants must be under 80. Children aged 1 to 17 must be accompanied by a paying adult, and infants and children must be included in the passenger count.

You can choose among departure times listed at 07:20, 09:20, 11:20, 13:20 and 15:20, though the options available depend on the booking. Arrive 10 minutes early; late arrivals and no-shows are not refundable. Booking changes are allowed until 24 hours before the activity, subject to the stated exceptions, and cancellations made at least 24 hours ahead receive a full refund.

Should you book it?

Book this flight if you’re ready to pay for the gondola separately, can manage a short walk to takeoff, and want the Lauterbrunnen cliffs, waterfalls and villages to be the main event. The views and route make it more than a basic glide, and the option to take the controls is a welcome extra.

Before you commit, confirm the meeting point, gondola fare, seasonal launch site and what happens if the wind changes the plan. If those details fit your day, this is a memorable way to see the Jungfrau region from above. If you need a fixed timetable or a low-cost outing, choose a less weather-dependent activity.

FAQ

Where does the flight take off?

In summer, the takeoff is at Birg, about 2,700 meters above sea level. In winter, the stated launch site is Schilgrat, at about 2,100 meters.

Where does the flight land?

The planned landing is at the Stechelberg landing field.

Which places are included in the panorama route?

The route aims to pass Gimmelwald, Mürren and the Trümmelbach waterfalls, with views of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Is the gondola ticket included?

No. The gondola ticket is not included in the activity price.

How long is the flight?

The activity does not specify a fixed flight duration. One flight has been estimated at about 20 to 30 minutes, while the overall outing takes longer.

Can I try flying the paraglider?

Yes. You can take the controls under your pilot’s supervision. Aerobatic maneuvers are available on request.

What are the age and pregnancy rules?

Children aged 1 to 17 must be accompanied by a paying adult, and children and infants must be included in the passenger count. Participants must be under 80, and the activity is not recommended for pregnant women.