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Col de Bleyne stands as one of France's premier paragliding launches, a south-facing ridge at 1513m near Thorenc that has launched record XC flights to Switzerland and Megeve, including David Dagault's 257km in 1998. Its east-west orientation traps early thermals for reliable climbs, with convergence lines propelling pilots over the Verdon Gorge. Big triangles and out-and-backs draw experts chasing 200km+ distances year-round.
Launch from the antenna-marked slope for top-to-bottom glides into valley fields, ridge runs to Teillon, or XC pushes north to St André and beyond. Nearby Cheiron and Greolieres offer complementary sites managed by Au Gré de l’Air, with tandem options for beginners. Epic days feature Mont Blanc views and high-altitude soars from Dôme de l’Alp equivalents.
Fly spring through fall for peak thermals, with summer mornings safest before 1pm wind spikes; winter works for slope soaring on calm days. Expect 400m drops to spacious landings, turbulent in W winds, and rocky snags at takeoff. Prepare reverse launches, join the local club, and drive 4x4 for snowy access.
Au Gré de l’Air pilots form a tight community hosting clinics and vol-biv treks, sharing beta on St André routes via forums. Record chasers like Luc Armant (245km from nearby Greolieres) inspire gatherings, blending French Riviera vibes with alpine grit. Stay at Gîte du Cheiron for basecamp immersion near multiple sites.
Check Au Gré de l’Air club forecasts and join their WhatsApp for real-time wind reports; book tandem instructors via local schools for €100–150 per flight. Arrive by 10am to beat crowds and catch first thermals, as winds exceed 15km/h by 1pm. Monitor Paragliding Earth or Windy app for W wind avoidance, and confirm road access post-snow.
Pack a reverse launch technique for snappy takeoffs on the rocky slope; bring line protectors against shrubs and rocks. Wear full harness kit with reserve parachute, helmet, and radio tuned to club frequency. Hydrate heavily for XC retrieves, and stash a spot tracker for remote landings.