Experiences and adventures
Want to discover Normandy from a completely new perspective? Take to the skies and let the winds and world of aviation carry you as you admire this region’s treasures from above.
From the Étretat cliffs to Mont-Saint-Michel, following the winding Seine River and the rolling hills of the Pays d’Auge, Normandy offers spectacular panoramas that take on a whole new dimension when viewed from above. Whether you’re an adrenaline seeker or simply love contemplation, air sports in Normandy promise an unforgettable experience.
The Norman region, with its diverse landscapes and favorable aeronautical conditions, stands out as an ideal destination for air sports. From microlight flights to skydiving, gliding to hot air ballooning, the Normandy Regional Aeronautical Committee offers numerous activities accessible to both beginners and enthusiasts. Aero clubs, associations, and specialized centers throughout the region allow you to try these activities in the best conditions.
The Pays d’Auge reveals all its splendor during a hot air balloon flight. At sunrise, the first rays illuminate the half-timbered houses, medieval villages, and verdant valleys. This unique experience offers a moment of absolute calm, punctuated only by the whisper of the wind. Flights departing from Saint-Pierre-sur-Dives or Pont-l’Évêque allow you to admire this blend of Norman landscapes.
Microlight flying offers a dynamic approach to flight, perfect for discovering the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. Departing from Saint-Gatien-des-Bois aerodrome or Deauville Airport flying club, pilots guide you above this World Heritage jewel. Morning flights offer favorable conditions when the ocean withdraws. Admire the ramparts and winding streets surrounded by a bay that hosts continental Europe’s highest tides.
The Étretat cliffs provide an exceptional setting for paragliding. FFVL-certified schools (French Free Flight Federation) offer tandem flights to soar over these white chalk cliffs. Thanks to the air currents that flow along the cliffs, let yourself be carried away and enjoy an unbeatable view of the Needle Rock and natural arches: these natural gates, forged by the meeting of water and rock, are 80 million years old. Book your experience online with Lower Normandy clubs.
For thrill-seekers, skydiving from Granville promises a unique adrenaline rush. The panoramic view of the Pointe du Roc, the Chausey Islands, and the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel makes the experience even more memorable. Specialized skydiving centers, like the one in Saint-Manvieu-Norrey, allow anyone, even without training or experience, to enjoy an impressive jump with an experienced instructor over the English Channel.
The Suisse Normande, with its wooded relief shaped by rivers, is the ideal playground for gliding. The Thury-Harcourt flying club offers glider flights that let you silently appreciate the breathtaking panoramas of this region. The updrafts that form along the hills provide perfect conditions for long contemplative flights.
To make the most of your aerial experience, here are some essential tips:
• Book your activities in advance, especially during peak season
• Check weather conditions, as some activities like hot air ballooning require specific conditions
• Choose recognized organizations or certified centers like the Rouen Normandy flying club or Dieppe-Saint-Aubin aerodrome – you’ll be accompanied by real pilots
• Bring a camera to capture these unique moments and wear appropriate clothing. As you gain altitude, the temperature can drop to -10°C for skydiving.
The region has many renowned sites and flying clubs:
📍 Saint-Gatien-des-Bois aerodrome for microlights
📍 Val-de-Reuil gliding center for sailplanes
📍 Caen Regional Aero Club for introductory plane flights
📍 Le Havre Jean Maridor Aero Club for first flights
📍 Saint-Romain-de-Colbosc sites for paragliding
📍 Granville base for skydiving
Normandy continues to surprise with the diversity of its outdoor sports activities. Whether you choose the serenity of a hot air balloon flight, the adventure of a skydive, or discovery by microlight, each experience will offer you a unique perspective on the region’s treasures, letting you gain altitude and admire the territory from above. The numerous flying clubs and specialized centers welcome you throughout the year for unforgettable moments between sky and earth. So, ready to take to the skies?
Discover...
Experiences and adventures
Nature Walks in Normandy
Experiences and adventures
The best land activities in Normandy: walking, cycling and horse riding
Experiences and adventures
Water sports in Normandy: your complete guide to an unforgettable adventure!