Tandem Paragliding over the Stubai Valley

Tandem paragliding over the Stubai Valley launches from the Elfer mountain station above Neustift im Stubaital, about 20 km south-west of Innsbruck in Tyrol, Austria. Passengers fly strapped to a licensed tandem pilot, so no previous experience is needed. Several licensed pilots operate from the Elfer lifts, including Air 4 You Tandemflüge and Paragliding Tirol. The full experience takes about 1 hour including the cable car ride up, while the flight itself lasts 15-30 minutes and ends with a landing in the valley near Neustift. The activity suits most healthy adults and children who meet the pilot's weight and age requirements, which should be confirmed on booking; the passenger's only physical task is a few steps of running at takeoff and landing. Fitness demands are therefore low. Passengers wear sturdy closed shoes or hiking boots, long trousers, warm clothing, a windproof jacket and sunglasses, because the air at altitude is cooler than in the valley. The pilot supplies the helmet and harness, and passengers sign a waiver before flying. Prices are about EUR 125-150 per flight, plus the Elfer cable car at about EUR 13-15 and photo or video at about EUR 30 extra; these should be verified at booking. Safety rests on the pilot's licence, the briefing before takeoff and the decision whether to fly, which depends on wind, thermals and cloud. Pilots cancel flights when conditions are unsafe, and carry reserve parachutes as standard in tandem flying. Mountain rescue can be reached on 140. Access from Innsbruck is by the Stubaitalbahn tram to Fulpmes and then a bus to Neustift. The season runs from May to October, with June to September and mornings offering the calmest air. Strong wind, rain, low cloud and thunderstorms are the conditions to avoid, so flexible dates are advisable.