Run across a mountaintop, see the edge approaching and leap into the air! This breathtaking experience is one you will want to try again as soon as possible, to enjoy that ecstatic sensation and admire the wonderful views.

This is another way of contemplating the mountains of the Basque Country and Béarn, a different way of getting close to the birds of the Pyrenees and, of course, a way of experiencing thrilling sensations.

The French “Vol Libre” Federation includes four disciplines: paragliding, hang-gliding, kite-flying and kite-surf. Its site will give you all the information you require.

This federation accredits three schools, five clubs and 13 sites, in the Pyrénées Atlantiques, naturally, but also in the other départements of Aquitaine. The Dune du Pyla, for example, is the starting point for paragliding flights over the Bay of Arcachon.

There is no hang-gliding school as such in the Pyrénées Atlantiques, but the other clubs and schools organise maiden flights or training days with a state-qualified instructor. Give them a ring and they will provide you with all the necessary dates and information.