Paragliding or hang-gliding in Annecy: which should you choose?

Nestling between lake and mountains, Annecy is one of Europe's most emblematic sites for hang-gliding. Every year, thousands of enthusiasts - beginners and experienced alike - come here to enjoy a unique flying experience, supported by exceptional aerological conditions and a breathtaking natural setting.

But there is one question that is often asked by curious thrill-seekers: should you choose paragliding or hang-gliding to fly over Annecy? Two related disciplines, two approaches to the sky... and just as many different emotions.

Find out more about the differences between these two aerial sports below, and book the experience that suits you best for your next visit to the region.

Annecy, a legendary spot for hang-gliding

Since the advent of modern hang gliding and paragliding in the 1970s, Annecy has become something of a Mecca for free flight. This is due to the topography of the area, with a large lake protected from the wind by the surrounding mountains and massifs. As a result, the air over Lake Annecy is very calm, making it possible to fly almost all year round. And taking off couldn't be easier: it's easy to reach one of the take-off points overlooking the lake, such as Planfait or Col de la Forclaz, by car.

Paragliding in Annecy: gentle and accessible

The first paragliding experience in Annecy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It's all done very gently. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, you'll take off in a two-seater tandem paraglider, taking a few steps facing the lake, and you'll feel as if you're being magically lifted into the air. Once in the air, the paraglider moves at 30-35 km/h. Enjoy the scenery and colours of the lake. If the thermal conditions are generous, which is often the case in Annecy, your pilot will help you gain altitude and you may even find yourself flying with a golden eagle at your side. Once you've reached the time limit, you'll head for one of Annecy's landings, either Perroix-Talloire or Doussard, depending on the wind direction and the school you've chosen. Numerous flight options are available, depending on your wishes and budget. Don't hesitate to check the current prices and contact the school to get a precise idea of each option. Some are calm, others are thrilling. The choice is yours.

At the Grands Espaces school we offer you the following paragliding experience packages following :

• At Grands Espaces photos and videos are included in the advertised price 😉

Hang-gliding in Annecy: speed and adrenalin

You've already tried paragliding and you're looking for more adrenalin. Then hang-gliding experience is made for you. With a flight speed of up to 100 km/h, a colourful take-off from a steep springboard and an impressive belly landing, it's fair to say that this is one of the most fun you can have in the air. hang-gliding and an unforgettable memory.

The head-down flying position gives you an incomparable feeling of speed. Hang-gliding simply feels like flying like a bird. Depending on the package you choose, you'll be able to discover the acrobatics specific to hang-gliding or fly in thermal updrafts over a large part of the massif, rolling up the warm air currents to take in as much latitude as possible and why not admire Mont Blanc in the background.

As the flight draws to a close, your instructor pilot will gently take you back to Doussard, the hang gliders' main landing zone. The landing is made very gently using the wheels installed on the speed bar.

Comparison table: first paragliding flight vs hang-gliding jump

How do you choose between the two experiences depending on your profile?

If you've never flown before, you can start with a paragliding flight. This accessible experience will allow you to discover new sensations and see how you react once your feet are in the air above the mountains and lake.

If, on the other hand, you've already done a first flight in a paraglider, you can try a first flight in a hang-glider to compare sensations and discover a new way of flying.

Where can I book my flight to Annecy at the best price?

For paragliding, all the paragliding schools and service providers offer more or less the same prices for 'discovery' flights. However, at Grand Espaces you can take advantage of free video and photos. This option can really make all the difference.

For hang-gliding, you can contact Annecy Deltaplane or go directly to the Doussard landing stage, where you'll find all the hang-gliding and paragliding kiosks.

Frequently asked questions :

What's the difference between paragliding and hang-gliding?

Although they are often confused, paragliding and hang-gliding are two very distinct disciplines in free flighteach offering a unique experience in terms of feel, posture and handling.

🪂 Paragliding

• Flexible structure A fabric sail (like a parachute) without a rigid structure.
• Flight position The pilot sits in a harness with his legs dangling.
• Take-off and landing On foot, from a gentle slope.
• Handling slower and more manoeuvrable at low speeds.
• Public Very accessible, ideal for beginners and contemplative flights.

🛩️ Hang-gliding

• • Rigid structure A delta wing in the shape of a triangle, with a metal frame.
  • Flight position The pilot lies with his head forward, suspended in a harness.
  • Take-off and landing Also on foot, but requires more technique and often uses a steeper slope or a springboard.
  • Handling Faster, more stable at high speeds, with the sensation of flying "like a bird".
  • Public More sporty, ideal for those looking for a thrill.

Is hang-gliding scarier than paragliding?

It all depends on how you feel about thrills, but hang-gliding is often perceived as more impressive than paragliding, especially before take-off.

Why do I feel this way?

• 🧍‍♂️ Lying down, head forward The pilot or passenger is suspended under a rigid wing, which gives a more direct sensation of speed and emptiness.
• 🚀 Higher speed The hang-glider flies faster, which can increase the adrenalin rush.
• 📏 Rigid structure and scale visually, the hang glider is more impressive for its size and delta wing shape.

On the other hand :

• ✅ Hang gliding is very stable and gives a fluid gliding sensation, a bit like gliding on your stomach.
• 👨‍✈️ Tandem flights are supervised by professionals experienced paragliders and hang-gliders.
• 💬 Many passengers say that apprehension disappears in the first few seconds of flightIt's such an immersive experience.

👉 If you are sensitive to vertigo or strong sensationsthe paragliding will often be more reassuring.
But if you like adrenalin and the idea of flying 'like a bird', the hang-gliding could well seduce you even more.

Can you fly in winter in Annecy?

The advantage of Annecy is that the microclimate above the lake is quite exceptional. You can fly almost all year round, including winter. However, it's worth checking in advance to make sure that the snow cover at the take-off sites is not too heavy and incompatible with free flight.

What should you wear for a paragliding or hang-gliding flight?

For dressing for paragliding Above all, you need to take into account the weather on the day and the package you have chosen. For a 15-minute discovery flight in high summer, you can fly light in shorts and a T-shirt. However, in winter, spring or autumn, if the conditions are cool, you'll need a windproof jacket or even a down jacket. The same applies to cross-country or long-distance flights, so it's best to bring warm clothing and gloves.