Paragliding in Annecy

Nestled between the crystalline waters of Lake Annecy and the dramatic ridges of the French Alps, Annecy stands as a paragliding capital in Europe. The town’s medieval heart, with its cobbled streets and canals, gives way to open skies and sweeping mountain vistas, creating a setting where adventure and tranquillity coexist. Paragliding in Annecy is not just about flight—it is about immersion in a landscape where the blue-green lake reflects the ever-changing Alpine light, and the air carries the fresh scents of pine and wildflowers. The region’s unique geography, framed by the Massif des Bauges and the towering Tournette, offers an unrivalled aerial stage for those seeking both beauty and adrenaline.

Taking off from renowned sites such as Col de la Forclaz or Planfait, paragliders are treated to a sensory journey that shifts with altitude and season. The ascent begins with the rustle of harnesses and the soft crunch of grass underfoot, followed by the exhilarating moment when the canopy lifts you into silence, broken only by the wind and distant cowbells from the pastures below. Flights typically last between 15 and 40 minutes, depending on conditions and chosen routes, with the possibility to soar above the turquoise lake, glide along limestone cliffs, and circle over the patchwork of villages like Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard. The contrasts are striking: moments of peaceful suspension above the water, then dynamic turns as thermals lift you higher, revealing the snow-capped Aravis range on the horizon.

Annecy’s paragliding experience is shaped by its community of passionate, certified instructors who prioritise safety and personal attention. Local guides are deeply familiar with the region’s microclimates and terrain, ensuring each flight is adapted to weather and participant ability. All equipment, from harnesses to helmets and modern wings, is provided and meticulously maintained. Briefings cover take-off, flight dynamics, and landing procedures, fostering confidence for first-timers and offering technical insights for more experienced flyers. The outdoor culture here is welcoming and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on respect for nature and the rhythms of the mountains.

The best time to paraglide in Annecy stretches from late spring to early autumn, when thermals are reliable and the landscape bursts with colour. While many flights are accessible to beginners, a reasonable level of physical fitness is recommended, as take-off and landing require some agility and coordination. The activity welcomes solo adventurers, families, and groups, with tandem flights making the skies accessible to those with no prior experience. For those seeking progression, Annecy also offers advanced courses and cross-country opportunities, making it a year-round hub for both leisure and sport paragliding.

To experience the freedom of flight above Annecy’s luminous lake and Alpine peaks is to discover the region from a new perspective—one shaped by wind, light, and the expertise of local professionals. Book your paragliding adventure on Manawa and let Annecy’s skies become your gateway to the spirit of the French Alps.