Understanding thermals – the interplay of sun, wind and landscape
Thermals – they are the invisible interplay between sun, wind and landscape that carries us paragliders. In Central Switzerland, we are very lucky to have some of the most exciting thermal areas in Europe right on our doorstep.
From the Pilatus over the Niederbauen to the Titlis – this is where the art of thermal flying begins. If you want to learn to read thermals, you first have to understand the landscape.
The typical thermal patterns of Central Switzerland
In central Switzerland, the best updrafts often occur on eastern and southern slopes, especially between March and September. Around midday, when the sun warms the slopes evenly, the air begins to rise. Small, flat cumulus clouds indicate active but gentle thermals.
Learning to feel thermals
Thermal flying is not a calculation, but a dialog with nature. Over time, you learn to feel it – where it starts, how it moves. And that’s exactly what we teach you step by step at touch and go paragliding.
