Soaring Above Cleopatra’s Bay

The anticipation was palpable as my group of thrill-seekers and I were whisked away from our hotel in Side in a sleek, air-conditioned minivan. The journey to Alanya, where our paragliding adventure awaited, was a scenic drive along the coastline, offering tantalizing glimpses of the azure Mediterranean Sea. As someone who has scaled mountains and leaped off cliffs, the promise of soaring above Cleopatra’s Bay was an irresistible call to adventure.

Upon arrival at the take-off site, we were greeted by our expert pilots, who exuded a calm confidence that was both reassuring and infectious. The briefing was thorough, emphasizing the importance of staying upright during takeoff and landing—no sitting allowed! This was a reminder that paragliding, while exhilarating, is an extreme sport that demands respect and attention to detail. With our valuables safely stowed away, we donned our sunglasses and prepared for the flight of a lifetime.

The Thrill of Flight

Strapped in and ready to go, my heart raced with excitement as the pilot signaled for takeoff. A few brisk steps, and suddenly, the ground fell away beneath us. The sensation of being airborne, with the wind rushing past and the world unfurling below, was nothing short of magical. Cleopatra’s Bay stretched out in a stunning panorama, the turquoise waters glistening in the sunlight.

As we ascended, the pilot expertly maneuvered the chute, making smooth turns that offered breathtaking views of the coastline. Then came the moment I had been waiting for—the chance to experience the “extreme” side of paragliding. With a nod of agreement, the pilot instructed me to lift my left leg, and we banked sharply to the left, spiraling downwards with exhilarating speed. The G-forces were intense, and I was grateful for the sunglasses shielding my eyes from the wind.

The thrill of the descent was matched only by the beauty of the surroundings. As we leveled out and glided towards the shoreline, I couldn’t help but marvel at the unique perspective paragliding offers—a bird’s-eye view of a world that is both familiar and utterly transformed.

A Gentle Return to Earth

The landing was as smooth as the takeoff, with the astroturf providing a soft cushion as we touched down behind the beach. Staying upright, as instructed, I felt a sense of accomplishment and exhilaration that only comes from pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The pilots quickly gathered the chute, and we made our way back to the office, where the photos and videos of our flight awaited.

While the media packages were on the pricey side, the opportunity to relive the experience through stunning visuals was tempting. I opted for the photos, a tangible reminder of an unforgettable adventure. As we made our way back to Side, the adrenaline still coursing through my veins, I reflected on the day’s events. Paragliding over Cleopatra’s Bay was not just a tick on the bucket list; it was a testament to the thrill of exploration and the joy of embracing the unknown.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush and a new perspective on the world, I can’t recommend this experience enough. The combination of expert guidance, breathtaking scenery, and the sheer thrill of flight makes it a must-do for any adventure enthusiast. Paragliding Over Cleopatra’s Bay