Bucket list adventure - Paragliding

I had a dream.

Dream of stretching out my arms, closing my eyes and flying high, up in the sky seeing the world with a bird's-eye view and experiencing the ultimate freedom.

I woke up early just as the sun was about to rise.

I sat on my balcony and enjoyed the utter silence. Nothing but the birds chirping away.

And these sounding like two angry cats in a bag.

With no one in sight, I had the whole breakfast area to myself apart from these two keeping me company.

Feeling ready to seize the day, I set off to make my dream come true.

I contacted Garda Paragliding and Andrea was more than happy to take me on the most thrilling flight of my life.

We met at Toscolano, few kilometers away from Grand Hotel Fasano, where I was staying and drove up the mountain for a take-off.

Standing at an altitude of over 1000 meters, the views of the Lake Garda were simply breathtaking.

To prepare for the flight, he thoroughly inspected our equipment. 

Helmets on, a quick run down the hill and off we went to take a walk in the sky.

To my surprise, I was more excited than scared and Andrea was an absolute professional ensuring I felt comfortable and safe throughout the whole flight.

It was unbelievable! Holding on for my dear life, I did not stretch out my arms nor close my eyes like I dreamt, but most certainly flew like a bird. Without a doubt, the most incredible experience EVER!

Feeling totally elated, I decided to take a walk back to the hotel passing by beautiful waterfronts surrounded by towering mountains.

The rest of the day was spent at 0 mph by the pool.

One fine day I will remember for the rest of my life!

If you are visiting Italy and staying around Lake Garda, I cannot recommend flying with Garda Paragliding highly enough. There is no age limit nor special physical skills required, so anyone can have a go. It is like riding a bicycle without pedaling they say.