From Geneva, one of the most beautiful paragliding sites in the world is less than an hour away. No need to catch a plane: Lake Annecy — regularly ranked among the finest free-flight spots on the planet by the international specialist press — is right on your doorstep. Here's why so many Geneva flyers come here, and how to plan your tandem paragliding flight over the lake.
Annecy, one of the world's most beautiful paragliding sites
There are places on Earth where free flight takes on another dimension. Lake Annecy is one of them: a lake of an almost unreal turquoise — one of the purest in Europe — set in an amphitheatre of mountains (La Tournette, the Dents de Lanfon, the Roc de Chère). Taking off from Forclaz Pass and gliding over this scenery is an experience few spots in the world can match.
It's no coincidence. Cross Country Magazine, the world's leading free-flight publication, calls Annecy "one of the most popular sites in the world" and even "free-flight's most famous spot". The lake has also hosted international competitions and world championships. Pilots from across the globe come here to train and fly: reliable flying conditions, breathtaking panoramas, an easy landing by the lake.
From Geneva: less than an hour away
That's Annecy's real strength for anyone in Geneva: the most beautiful of spots is practically at your door.
| From Geneva… | Distance / time |
|---|---|
| To Annecy | ≈ 45 km, about 45 min via the A41 motorway |
| To the take-off (Forclaz Pass / Doussard) | ≈ 1 hour, at the south end of the lake |
Why fly in Annecy rather than elsewhere
- The scenery — one of the world's finest flights over water, unmatched near Geneva.
- The proximity — no need to cross the Alps: it's all one hour away.
- The reliability — a site renowned for its gentle, consistent flying conditions.
- The accessibility — from age 5, no experience needed, tandem with a certified instructor.
- The safety — a school flying since 1994, with no serious accident in 30 years.
Which package to choose?
Five packages, from a gentle first flight to a long panoramic soar:
| Package | For whom | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Children's | Ages 5-12 | €85 |
| Classic | A gentle first time | €100 |
| Sensation | Thrill seekers (wing-overs, 360°) | €110 |
| Performance | Fly longer (30-45 min) | €135 |
| Prestige | Long flight + photos & videos included | €160 |
Prices in euros, booking and payment online. Photos & videos option (+€30) on all packages except Prestige.
When to come and fly from Geneva?
Paragliding runs all year round in Annecy. Spring and summer offer the longest flying windows and the most vivid colours over the lake; autumn reveals stunning golden panoramas. In winter, it's time for ski paragliding at La Clusaz (also ~1 hour from Geneva). Morning flights, calmer, are ideal for a first time.
Practical info for Geneva visitors
- Online booking, instant confirmation — ideal for setting a date from Switzerland.
- Prices in euros; bring closed shoes and a windbreaker (it's cooler at 1,150 m).
- Gift idea: the gift voucher is valid 12 months — perfect for a loved one in Geneva.
- With family or friends: several tandems on the same day, each with their own instructor.
FAQ
Where can you paraglide near Geneva?
How long is the drive from Geneva?
Do I need experience or equipment?
How much is a tandem paragliding flight in Annecy?
Can I pay in Swiss francs?
One hour from Geneva — treat yourself to the finest flight
Flights from €85 · Google rating 5.0 ★ (133 reviews) · State-certified instructors since 1994
🪂 See packages & book 📞 +33 4 50 45 60 61