Alsace from the sky – 7 aerial activities to try out

1. Tandem paragliding flight at Markstein, between the Vosges and Alsace!

This experience was made by Vincent – A notification appears on my phone: “Hello, your flight tomorrow is confirmed”. It’s taken three attempts since I booked, all aborted due to the vagaries of the weather, but this time it’s here… my paragliding flight in Alsace is confirmed! After a good night’s sleep and an early wake-up call (flight time is 8.30am), it’s off by car to Oderen. It’s a beautiful day ahead, the air is warm even early this morning and the sun is shining. I’m greeted by Vincent (easy for me to remember) on the store’s terrace, who will be my flight companion!

My summary

Where to go paragliding in Alsace?

Direction Oderen in Markstein, not far from Mulhouse, where the Cumulus school center is located, offering paragliding lessons in Alsace.

Ready for the first flight and the paragliding jump?

After about twenty minutes in the van, we arrive at the foot of the Trehkopf (just beside Le Markstein, in the Alsatian part of the Vosges mountains). Another short walk with our canopies and seats on our backs (an opportunity to exchange a few words with our partner) and we arrive at the take-off spot. Vincent unfolds the canopy on the ground and fits me out.

He explains to me how the take-off is going to work and what I’m going to have to do (and not do). It’s pretty easy: just run at the right moment and sit down! As far as I’m concerned, three or four steps were enough and we were airborne almost instantly. All I had to do was sit back and enjoy the moment and the view, which was majestic that morning. The low-angled light on the trees is magnificent, as is the view of the Bernese Alps in the distance.

The freedom of paragliding

The sensation of paragliding is very pleasant. I thought I’d be shaken up, but in fact the free flight is very gentle. We make little turns over the treetops. We’re above the Ferme Auberge du Treh. We enjoy the view over the Thann valley and the Grand Ballon. proudly overlooks. I’m not cold, despite the wind created by our journey.

Vincent explains that the quality, and above all the duration, of a paragliding flight depends on weather conditions, and particularly on temperature contrasts. The greater the difference between hot and cold zones, the longer the flight can last. He tells me that the French record for a single flight is 410 km: I’m impressed.

I’m trying to savor this moment, because I already know it’s going to pass (way) too quickly.

A bit of adrenaline during the flight

We continue our descent and catch a glimpse of the school in the distance. Future paragliders take off from a spot below us, a ballet of sails that’s very pretty to watch from up there.

Vincent asks me if I’d like to do a few turns… I say yes, of course. And off we go for the little acrobatic tricks (Wing-over for those in the know)! Pressure, speed: that’s when you really feel the sensation! That’s what we’ve come for too.

We’re now close to the valley, and the Oderen church, the school runway and the small campsite next to it are clearly visible. I suspect it’s time toland. Vincent gives me the instructions: first lift your legs (important), then run until the glider falls behind you. A final turn to bring us into line and we’re off. The arrival on the ground is equally smooth: nothing complicated, athletic or painful! All that’s left to do is stand aside and fold up our glider.

As you can imagine, I really enjoyed this free-flight experience! So if, like me, you’re looking for a change of scenery, a chance to get up high, try out a different activity… and be overwhelmed by an intense feeling of freedom while taking in the splendid views, I think you know what’s right for you… A paragliding experience!

2. Introduction to aircraft piloting in Colmar

This experience was performed by Vincent – An initiation to airplane piloting in Alsace I’ve been dreaming of this for a long time! The asphalt is still wet from an autumn rain when I take the road towards Colmar this October morning. As the voice on the phone told me the day before, the clouds have lifted and finally the light atmosphere is rather soft and pleasant. Arrived at theColmar Houssen airfield, I met Yves again, the voice of yesterday and especially the pilot who will have the heavy task to initiate me to piloting on this flight!

My summary

The briefing before the initiation to piloting

You can tell Yves is passionate, and there’s nothing nicer than talking to someone who’s passionate about their passion. He gives me a quick introduction to the Colmar aerodrome, the runways and how they work. Let’s move on to the aircraft: he shows me his plane, the superb Savage Club, explains its flying characteristics (light and maneuverable, ideal for flying over the Alsace vineyards or the Vosges mountains) and then its controls. I’m a little impressed when Yves tells me that I’m the one who’ll be operating them during the coming flight: I pick up the famous control stick for the first time and operate it “in the air”… In a few minutes, when I do the same thing, the plane will change direction as it flies through the air.

Immediate take-off

Shortly afterwards, Yves puts us in the plane and asks me to start the engine. At that moment I realize that I’ m really going to fly this plane. After a few adjustments we’re “ready for take-off”, as he says over the radio. We head for the runway. The plane takes off and we leave the ground: the serious stuff begins, even if, let me reassure you, it’s Yves who gets the plane off the ground. Soon enough, he encourages us to take the controls. The advantage of dual controls is that I can let go of them from time to time to take photos. Despite theadrenalin of flying the plane, I couldn’t resist taking a few shots.

Is there a pilot in the plane?

A little impressed, I hardly dare move the handle for fear of shaking the machine. Gradually, I manage to gauge how hard I need to move the control to turn as I wish. After a few timid movements, Yves encourages me to launch into a small U-turn maneuver. I launch the turn with a more serious movement of the stick: what an incredible sensation! Yves reminds me that we also need to think about righting the aircraft, as we’re losing altitude (there’s no trim on these planes to tell whether the plane is heading down or up). I pull back on the stick and we climb until the altimeter stops fluctuating. The physical sensations of the plane’s movements and the excitement of piloting mix with adrenalin: we feel free and happy!

The most beautiful landscapes in Alsace

I couldn’t not tell you about it. How could we remain insensitive to the autumnal beauty of the landscapes we drove through? Alsace is a magnificent region, especially at this time of year. We flew over some of the most beautiful villages on the Wine RouteKatzenthal, Kaysersberg, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé, the three castles… The pinnacle is reached on arrival near Haut Koenigsbourg. Perched on its rocky outcrop, it towers proudly above the vineyards, which are decked out in gold at this time of year. It’s a superb experience, masterfully orchestrated by Yves, who distills commentary and anecdotes and bends over backwards to provide you with the best possible viewpoints!

We’re already landing, with images and memories in our heads. “Flying a plane over the autumn-colored Alsaceis a dream come true. I’m still a little dizzy from the experience and the beauty of the scenery, but Yves has to leave me, his next “pupil” is already here.

3. Microlight paramotor baptism near Colmar

This experiment was performed by Laurène – Do you knowparamotor ultralight? To put it simply, it is a kind of paraglider equipped with a motor: itis the smallest motorized aircraft! The engine is not used to move forward as in an airplane, it is simply used to go up in altitude. Otherwise, it is the sail itself that allows you to fly. You can make a paramotor flight experience in Alsace easily, just a great experience!

My summary

Flight with Luc Warth from Alsace Paramoteur school in Ostheim (Haut-Rhin)

I tried out a two-seater paramotor with Luc Warth, a qualified instructor who has been running the Alsace Paramoteur school since 1997. Having never been on one before, and sometimes prone to vertigo, I went in with a mixture of excitement and apprehension. Once I arrived at the site at Ostheim Maison Rouge, near Colmar, my apprehension quickly subsided. Luc is professional, friendly and saves me a lot of thought by showing me how to prepare the paramotor, by combining the glider with the cart. On one side, the cart where we’ll be set up, with the motor. On the other, the impressive sail. It needs to be properly unfolded and its lines (wires) untangled so that it can inflate properly.

I then put on a suit that makes me look like a real pilot (and keeps me warm, as it can get a bit chilly up there), goggles to protect me from the wind, and a helmet so I can talk to Luc during the flight. I’m ready and raring to go!

I’m surprised by the short distance it takes to take off (you think you’re flying into the corn in the next field, but in fact you’re not), and by how smoothly it takes off. Even more surprising is the fact that I’m not afraid of heights at all. This could be explained by the fact that my feet have no contact with the ground. In any case, it’s very pleasant and I can simply enjoy this magical moment.

Let’s go for the first flight over Alsace and Vosges!

Even if the sky is a little cloudy, the show is grandiose and allows you to discover Alsace from a different angle. The view of Alsace from the paramotor is superb. We’re high above the Alsace plain, with the Wine Route and Vosges mountains on one side, and the German Black Forest on the other. On a clear day, I’m told you can even see the Alps and the spire of Strasbourg cathedral! We fly over fields, forest and the Ill (the river), and Luc gives me a radio commentary on what we’re seeing: Colmar, Ribeauvillé, Haut-Koenigsbourg castle, Illhausern… It’s a totally different view from up there! We’ve gradually climbed to a height of 500m.

It’s time to head back down and Luc cuts the engine. The descent goes smoothly. I’m even allowed to steer the glider for a few minutes, which feels really funny. You pull to the right, it goes to the right, you pull harder, you turn and descend faster. Impressive! Then it’s a smooth landing.

My flight lasted 20 minutes (which went by very quickly indeed, there being so much to look at!) but Alsace Paramoteur offers flights from 10 minutes to 1 hour. In 1 hour, for example, you can fly over the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle or the Neuf-Brisach citadel! That’s what I’m looking forward to next time. Because that’s the only problem with this experience: I think you get a taste for this fabulous flying machine, and it’s an unforgettable experience! And if you’re already hooked, Luc can also teach you to fly a paramotor ultralight.

4. Baptism of the air and initiation to flying an ultralight aircraft in Mulhouse

This experiment was performed by Laurène – After trying out paramotoring and helicopters, I had to try out another aerial activity:ultralight flying! The ultralight is a multi-axis microlight. To the uninitiated, it looks like an airplane, it’s just smaller. I took part in a flight with Aeros Air, based atMulhouse-Habsheim airfield and led by the friendly Hugues. A great opportunity for a first flight, I assure you!

My summary

Meeting point at Mulhouse-Habsheim airfield

Hugues, an aviation enthusiast from an early age, is a qualified airline pilot as well as a microlight pilot. As soon as you arrive at Mulhouse airfield, he takes you along with him in his passion: explanations of the flight you’re about to take, the aircraft’s characteristics and operation, maintenance, safety rules… Everything is clear and you can sense his great experience, which is always reassuring! There’s even a parachute for the plane, in case the engine fails over an area where you can’t glide and land safely.

Baptism of the air or initiation to piloting?

Then it’s off for the flight! I actually tried out several formulas at once that day, since we were doing a sightseeing flight with an introductory flight section.

It is indeed possible to book different activities: tourist flights of variable duration allowing to fly over beautiful corners of Alsace (Wine Route, Neuf Brisach, Valley of Munster, Grand Ballon…), but also initiation flights to piloting. Like a driving school car, the plane has dual controls. Fun and interesting, it’s a lot of fun to fly the plane yourself.

Alsace seen from the sky from a multiaxis microlight

Alsace is magnificent from the air, and during the flight you’ll enjoy a spectacular view of the region from a different angle! Don’t forget your sunglasses, they can come in handy…

5. Helicopter baptism in Colmar

This experience was posted by Laurène – A helicopter flight is an original way to discover Alsace and experience new sensations! It is possible to do it fromColmar-Houssen airport. The proposed itineraries allow you to fly over the Alsace Wine Route, the Munster Valley, to admire the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle or the Mont Sainte-Odile… So many beautiful places!

I tried out the 15-minute flight, which took me to Ribeauvillé, Riquewihr and Kaysersberg. It sounds astonishing, but the helicopter flies at 240km/h, so you can cover a lot of distance in no time.

My summary

Time for take-off!

Caroline, the pilot, explains a few safety rules before we climb aboard. There are two of us on board that day, as the helicopter has room for three. After communicating with the control tower, we were given the go-ahead to take off. Surprisingly, we’re given a runway to take off from, which we’re already flying to! A strange sensation. The take-off is pretty impressive, as the helicopter tilts, but it’s a lot of fun!

The beauty of Alsace from the sky

We can then enjoy the spectacle ofAlsace from the sky: villages, vineyards, the Vosges, the Alsace plain and the Black Forest in the distance. A magnificent sight! Caroline explains which places we’re flying over, which is very useful, as it’s not easy to recognize the villages at first glance!

The 15 minutes went by very quickly and it was already time to head back to Colmar, with lots of beautiful images in my head. The flight was more beautiful in real life than on the photos, but I had a bit of trouble with the reflections from the windows and the sun.

6. Microlight autogyro baptism in central Alsace

This experience has been tested by Vivine – Ready to admire Alsace from the sky? With the return of the warm weather, I remembered an incredible experience I had last summer that I’d like to share with you… Flying over Alsace like a bird! Head for the Kogenheim airstrip, where we offer ultralight gyrocopter baptisms… Until I discovered it in a gift box, I didn’t even know it existed! I’d define anautogyro as an open helicopter or flying motorcycle, but for the technical details, I’ll leave you with the Wikipedia definition!

My summary

My experience

Thrill-seeker, perfectly secured in the cockpit, I fly during the 20 minutes of the flight over the Rhine’s banks, between nature and small villages – with a small glance at Europapark (in Germany, elected best amusement park of the world). Good to know, I could also have gone to the Villé Valley or, with a little more time, to the Haut-Koenigsbourg castle near Sélestat.

The weather is magnificent – it’s a condition for taking off! – hair blowing in the wind, but it’s not too noisy, and above all, the passionate pilot gives me lots of explanations and anecdotes – a real treat! I even learn that he organizes flights with the geese he tames 🙂 When we landed (rather softly, compared to a hot-air balloon), I stayed on my little cloud for a few minutes longer, freezing this unforgettable memory… And you, are you ready to take to the skies too?

7. Virtual Flight in Châtenois, Boeing 737 flight simulator

This experiment was performed by Laurène – Here’s an activity that’s a bit different, since you won’t be flying for real… Have you always wanted to get into a cockpit and see how an airliner was flown? This is possible thanks to a flight simulator. I have been testing for you the Virtual Flight simulator located in Châtenois, near Sélestat, which reproduces the dashboard of a Boeing 737-800 and its various functions.

My summary

An ultra-realistic flight simulator in Alsace

At the helm of Virtual Flight is Michael Schueller, an enthusiast from an early age, who built the flight simulator himself. It took him 3 years! A difficult gamble, but one that paid off: a Boeing 737 airline pilot who came to test the simulator was blown away by its realistic precision: apart from a few functions that are not useful in a simulator (messages to passengers, for example), everything has been exactly reproduced, with functional controls. Panoramic images on high-definition screens reflecting the exterior landscape also enhance the sense of realism. For example, you can simulate an engine failure, a flight in poor visibility conditions thanks to customizable weather conditions, an emergency landing, etc. An excellent immersion experience!

You are the pilot!

The challenge when you’re at the controls if the simulator? Bringing the aircraft and passengers safely back to port, after a full briefing by the instructor. Depending on the package you choose and its duration, you’ll have to deal with a variety of situations, including landing at different airports (the most daring, for example, will try to land at Hong Kong’s former Kai Tak airport, one of the toughest in the world!)

I was on a quick flight from Basel airport to Strasbourg airport. Note that the scenery on the screen is a model of reality, and that the weather during the flight corresponds to the weather in real time! So I learned how to throttle up, take off, fly the plane, land… And let me tell you, it’s not easy! For example, I landed before the runway (oops) and I think I would have made all my passengers sick during the flight because I couldn’t keep my heading!

Throughout the flight, Michael explains a lot to me, and I discover a truly fascinating world. I came out of the simulator with a much better idea of how to fly an airliner: an unusual, interesting and impressive experience!