Paragliding in Annecy

Paragliding in Annecy is one of the best ways for you to experience an adrenaline rush and admire magnificent scenery at the same time.

Annecy is famous as a world-class paragliding venue with excellent conditions for flying, easy access and the magnificent setting of Lake Annecy.

You can enjoy all of this on a paragliding tour in Annecy or opt to engage on a more thrilling experience with a hang-gliding paragliding excursion.

Here's all you need to know about paragliding, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Annecy.

What are the best paragliding tours in Annecy?

Tandem paragliding flights over Lake Annecy

Feel the thrill of paragliding, as you soar above the beautiful Lake Annecy and the surrounding mountains in tandem with an accomplished instructor.

On this tour, you will discover one of France's foremost paragliding locations, the Col de la Forclaz, taking off in Montmin and landing in Doussard.

You can first relax with friends and family on a private shaded terrace close to the landing spot before your takeoff. For your flight, you will be safely harnessed in with your fully-qualified pilot, who will navigate the paraglider.

Then, floating up in the air, you will enjoy a magnificent view of the well-known Haute-Savoie landscape. After your unforgettable paragliding experience, you will receive an instructor-signed flight certificate.

Hang gliding tandem flight over Annecy

As a variation on your paragliding excursion, you can fly over the beautiful Lake Annecy in a hang-glider in tandem with an experienced hang-glider pilot.

You will find this experience a bit different in that you will fly in a lying-down position like a bird in flight. You will also attain higher speeds through the air and cover greater distances.

You will still have the same beautiful panoramas of the lake and Haute-Savoie mountains to admire during your flight.

You have a choice of different hang-gliding packages over Annecy and the lake, which vary from 10 to 40 minutes, depending on the weather conditions.

Paragliding discovery day in Annecy

On this 3-hour paragliding discovery day tour, you will be initiated to paragliding in Annecy, one of the world’s prime paragliding centers for the sport.

With the very favorable air conditions over Lake Annecy, with light winds and abundant thermals, it is the ideal place to start from.

Your morning of discovery kicks off on the “school slope,” where your accomplished and dedicated instructor will demonstrate the basics of paragliding in a lively way.

Then when you’re ready to take to the air, you will take off over Lake Annecy and admire Haute-Savoie’s mountainous landscapes for an unforgettable initiation flight.

How much do paragliding tours in Annecy cost?

The tandem paragliding flight over Lake Annecy costs €100 per person. Hang gliding tandem flight over Annecy costs about €120 per person. The paragliding discovery day tour in Annecy tour costs €200 per person.

What is included?

• Fully qualified instructors
• All paragliding equipment
• Private shaded terrace near the landing site
• Ice cream and cold drink

Where does it start?

Tandem paragliding tours in Annecy start around Lake Annecy in Doussard to meet up, and the flights take off at Col de la Forclaz. Hang gliding tours also meet in Doussard, while paragliding discovery day tours meet in Lathuile.

How long does it last?

Tandem paragliding tours over Lake Annecy, as well as the hang-gliding flights, last from 1 to 1.5 hours. The duration of the paragliding discovery day in Annecy is 3 hours.

When is the best time for a paragliding tour in Annecy?

The best time for a paragliding tour in Annecy is from March to November. Flights are very calm during winter, while in summer, high and long flights are achieved because of the upwind.

It is better to paraglide in the morning, as the weather and wind can become unpredictable in the afternoon.

Is it safe?

Paragliding flights in Annecy are safe, as all tandem pilots are highly qualified and possess all the required insurance. Incidents during flights are just about non-existent, provided you adhere to your pilot’s instructions.

Are children allowed?

Children from 6 years old are allowed on paragliding tandem flights. The minimum age for the paragliding discovery day in Annecy is 16.

What happens in case of bad weather?

When there’s rain or imminent rain, or the wind is too strong, the organizers of paragliding tours in Annecy will reschedule your flight at a time most convenient for you.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Annecy?

• Bike tours
• Wakeboarding

Travel tips

• Make sure to book your paragliding tours in Annecy in advance.
• Having good insurance is recommended.
• Wear warm clothes and sneakers.
• Bring a lightweight jacket or sweatshirt.
• Wear sunscreen.
• Bring bottled water and snacks.
• Wear sunglasses throughout the flight.