Dreaming of flying over Lake Annecy but not sure what to expect? A tandem paragliding flight is the easiest and most beautiful way to take to the air — no experience, no fitness and no preparation required. Here is everything you need to know before your first flight above one of the most beautiful lakes in Europe.
No experience needed: how tandem works
In a tandem flight, you fly attached to a state-certified instructor who handles absolutely everything — the take-off, the flight and the landing. You are simply the passenger, seated comfortably in a harness in front of your pilot. Your only job at take-off is to walk forward a few steps on a gentle slope. That is genuinely all there is to it.
Over 95% of our passengers had never flown before their first flight with us, and they are consistently our most enthusiastic. Our instructors fly above Lake Annecy since 1994 and are chosen as much for their warmth and patience as for their skill. And don’t worry about the language: we speak English — the whole briefing can be given in English.
How your flight unfolds, step by step
- Meeting point at our chalet at the Doussard landing zone, about 30 minutes from Annecy along the lake. Free parking on site.
- Minibus transfer up to the Col de la Forclaz take-off at 1,150 m — a scenic 20-minute drive.
- Briefing & harness fitting: your instructor adjusts everything and explains the few simple steps. Calm and reassuring, with no rush.
- Take-off: a few steps forward, the wing rises above you, and your feet leave the ground smoothly. No jump, no sudden drop.
- The flight: 10 to 45 minutes above the turquoise lake, depending on your chosen package.
- Soft landing back at Doussard — with your photos and videos as a souvenir on the Prestige package.
Plan for roughly 1h15 to 1h30 in total, from meeting point to return.
What to wear and bring
Keep it simple:
- Closed-toe shoes are essential — trainers, trail or hiking shoes. No sandals (you run a few steps at take-off).
- A windproof jacket and comfortable trousers; thin gloves in spring and autumn.
- Sunglasses, and your phone or a GoPro if you want your own shots (a strap is recommended).
- Nothing else: helmet and harness are provided.
Will I be scared? Vertigo and the fear of heights
This is the number one worry — and the good news is that most people who fear heights fly without any problem. Paragliding feels nothing like standing at the edge of a cliff: there is no vertical reference under your feet and no sensation of falling, so the brain doesn’t trigger the usual vertigo signal. The dominant feeling is one of floating peacefully. If you are anxious, simply tell your instructor and choose the calm Classic flight — he will be extra attentive throughout.
Which flight to choose for a first time
For a first flight, go for the Classic tandem flight: calm, gentle, 10 to 20 minutes, no acrobatics — the ideal introduction. If you love adrenaline you can pick the Sensation flight (wing-overs and 360°), and for the longest, most spectacular experience the Performance or Prestige flights ride the thermals for 30 to 45 minutes (the Prestige includes HD photos and video). See all options and prices on our paragliding in Annecy page.
Booking and weather
Book in advance, especially in July, August and at weekends. Paragliding is weather-dependent: your instructor checks conditions before every flight, and if they are not suitable the flight is simply rescheduled at no extra cost. Lake Annecy enjoys an excellent microclimate, so most days from April to October are flyable. Wondering about the best time? Read our guide on when to go paragliding in Annecy.
FAQ
Do I need any experience?
None at all. You fly in tandem with a certified instructor who does everything.
From what age?
From 6 years old for children, 12 for the standard flights.
What if the weather is bad?
Your flight is rescheduled at no cost. Safety always comes first.
Do you speak English?
Yes — we speak English and the briefing can be given in English.
Ready for your first flight? Book your tandem paragliding flight over Lake Annecy.