Imagine feeling the freedom and the adrenaline of the wind in your face, travelling across Portugal from the heights riding a hang glider. If you are a brave person who says yes to everything, this activity is perfect for you. And why not do it while contemplating the incredible landscapes that Portugal's coasts and mountains offer. Enjoy your stay in Portugal with such an exciting experience as hang gliding. We assure you that you won't regret it, it's time to start flying!
1. Where to go hang gliding in Portugal?
Lisbon is probably one of the best destinations to visit for a unique and thrilling activity. However, if you want to be astounded by the vistas, fly over Praia Grande from the village of Sintra. You can get a bird's eye view of the Atlantic and the Calheta Arch if you're on the island of Madeira. Another simple and adventurous take-off occurs in the Bornes region of Bragança. The Serra da Arrábida is also a great site to go hang gliding, and Sesimbra, Setúbal, and Vila do Bispo are also worth visiting. Don't be left out!
2. What materials will I be working with?
You must be very well prepared and equipped to hang glide. The fundamental feature of the hang glider is its wing, which allows you to fly through the air. In addition, safety equipment like a helmet, a harness to grab on to, and an emergency parachute must be carried. For a hang-gliding flight, comfortable clothing and closed shoes, such as boots, are recommended, as they are required for take-off and landing. Wear good goggles and gloves, and measure your distance with a barometer and an altimeter.
3. What are the hang gliding regulations in Portugal?
To hang glide in Portugal, you don't need any prior experience, but you must be at least 14 years old and have the permission of a responsible adult until you reach the age of majority. You must be able to carry all of the flight's equipment (about 15 kg) and be in good enough physical condition to perform a successful take-off and landing. So the most essential thing is that you relax, follow the advice of the experienced instructors who will be guiding you, and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
4. What are the different types of flying?
The differences between the various varieties of hang-gliding are minor: you can fly with or without an engine. Without the engine, the pilot must use his weight and the wind to control the hang glider, which can be rigid or flexible. In the other mode, though, the engine will be our only source of propulsion. The engine will be either combustion or electric, and it will be connected to an auxiliary building in some circumstances. Similarly, hang-gliding flights can be solo or tandem, with the instructor accompanying you.
5. What is the duration of the experience?
A hang-gliding flight's duration will vary based on the users' skill, as an excellent pilot can spend hours flying. This kind of flight is typically 15 to 30 minutes long, with 20 minutes being the most common average duration. Flying over Portugal in a hang-glider is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so even a long duration will not be enough to see the country from above. Of course, you may always repeat the activity to extend the time.
When is the ideal time to hang glide in Portugal?
There is no single optimal time of year to go hang gliding in Portugal; it all depends on the weather on the day you choose. One of the most important aspects will be the wind, which will make landing and take-off much more difficult. The same goes for weather situations such as rain, snow, and varying temperatures. Although some air is required to propel and glide, the gusts must not be too powerful or overwhelming, as this might be hazardous to hang gliding.
