Paragliding or Hang Gliding in Annecy: Which to Choose?

Nestled between lake and mountains, Annecy is one of the most iconic free flying sites in Europe. Every year, thousands of enthusiasts, beginners and experienced pilots alike, come to experience a unique aerial adventure, thanks to exceptional flying conditions and a breathtaking natural setting.But a question often comes up among curious thrill seekers: should you choose paragliding or hang gliding to fly over Annecy? Two closely related disciplines, two different approaches to the sky... and just as many different emotions.Find out below the differences between these two air sports and book the experience that suits you best ahead of your next visit to the region.

Annecy, a legendary spot for free flying

Since the advent of the modern hang glider and paraglider in the 1970s, Annecy has become something of a mecca for free flying. This is due to the area's topography, with a large lake sheltered from the wind by the surrounding mountains and ranges. The air above Lake Annecy is therefore very calm and allows flying almost year round. And getting to a launch site couldn't be easier, it's very easy to drive up to one of the takeoffs overlooking the lake, such as Planfait or Col de la Forclaz.

Paragliding in Annecy: gentleness and accessibility

A tandem paragliding flight in Annecy is an experience to have once in a lifetime. Everything happens gently. Accompanied by a qualified instructor, you'll take off tandem after a few steps facing the lake and feel yourself carried into the air, as if pulled upward by magic. Once airborne, the paraglider moves at 30 to 35 km/h. Plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the colors of the lake. If thermal conditions are generous, which is often the case in Annecy, your pilot will take you higher and you might even find yourself flying alongside a golden eagle. Once the allotted time is up, you'll head toward one of Annecy's landing spots, namely Perroix-Talloires or Doussard, depending on the wind direction and the school chosen. Many flight packages are available depending on your wishes and budget. Feel free to check current prices and contact the school to get a precise idea of each package. Some are calm, others are thrilling. It's up to you.At the Les Grands Espaces school we offer the following first flight packages:PackageDurationPriceChild flight10-15 minutes85€Adult discovery flight10-15 minutes100€Adult ascendance flight25-30 minutes140€Adult prestige flight40-50 minutes175€Adult cross flight60-75 minutes225€Adult cross prestige flight90-105 minutes265€

• At Les Grands Espaces, photos and videos are included in the price shown ;)

Hang gliding in Annecy: speed and adrenaline

You've already tried paragliding and you're looking for more adrenaline. Then a hang gliding flight is made for you. With a flying speed that can reach 100 km/h, a colorful takeoff off a steep ramp, and an impressive belly landing, there's no denying that flying a hang glider is an unforgettable experience.Flying lying down, head first, gives incomparable sensations of speed. In hang gliding you simply feel like you're flying like a bird. Depending on the package you choose, you can discover acrobatics specific to hang gliding, or fly in thermal lift over a good part of the mountain range, coring warm air currents to gain maximum altitude and perhaps admire Mont Blanc in the background.Once the flight comes to an end, your instructor pilot will gently bring you back down toward Doussard, the main hang glider landing zone. The landing happens smoothly using the wheels fitted on the control bar (speed bar).

Comparison table: paragliding flight vs hang gliding flight

CriteriaParaglidingHang glidingFlight positionSeatedLying downSensationsGentle, contemplativeFast, sportyEase of accessVery accessibleLess common, more technicalPriceFrom 100€ for adultsFrom 110€ for adultsBest forBeginners, families, contemplative typesSporty types, speed lovers

How to choose between the two experiences based on your profile?

If you've never flown before, you can start with a paragliding flight. This accessible experience will let you discover new sensations and see how you react once your feet are dangling above the mountains and the lake.If, on the other hand, you've already done a paragliding flight, you can head toward a hang gliding flight to compare the sensations and discover a new way of flying.

Where to book your flight in Annecy at the best price?

For paragliding, all the paragliding schools and providers offer roughly the same prices for "discovery" flights. However, at Les Grands Espaces you get the video and photos included. That option can really make the difference.For hang gliding, you can contact Annecy Deltaplane or head directly to the Doussard landing zone, where you'll find all the kiosks of the hang gliding and paragliding flight providers.

Frequently asked questions:

What is the difference between paragliding and hang gliding?

Although often confused with one another, paragliding and hang gliding are two quite distinct free flying disciplines, each offering a unique experience in terms of sensations, posture, and handling.

🪂 Paragliding

• Flexible structure: a fabric wing (like a parachute) with no rigid structure.
• Flight position: the pilot sits in a harness, legs dangling.
• Takeoff and landing: on foot, from a gentle slope.
• Handling: slower and more maneuverable at low speed.
• Audience: very accessible, ideal for beginners and contemplative flights.

🛩️ Hang gliding

• • Rigid structure: a triangular delta wing, with a metal frame.
  • Flight position: the pilot lies down, head first, suspended in a harness.
  • Takeoff and landing: also on foot, but requires more technique and often uses a steeper slope or a ramp.
  • Handling: faster, more stable at high speed, a "flying like a bird" sensation.
  • Audience: sportier, ideal for those seeking thrills.

Is hang gliding scarier than paragliding?

It all depends on your relationship with thrills, but hang gliding is often seen as more impressive than paragliding, especially before takeoff.

Why this impression?

• 🧍‍♂️ Lying down, head first: the pilot or passenger is suspended beneath a rigid wing, giving a more direct sensation of speed and open air.
• 🚀 Higher speed: the hang glider flies faster, which can heighten the sense of adrenaline.
• 📏 Rigid structure and wingspan: visually, the hang glider is more impressive due to its size and delta wing shape.

On the other hand:

• ✅ Hang gliding is very stable and gives a smooth gliding sensation, a bit like floating on your belly.
• 👨‍✈️ Tandem flights are supervised by experienced professionals, whether in paragliding or hang gliding.
• 💬 Many passengers say that any apprehension disappears within the first seconds of flight, the experience is that immersive.

👉 If you're sensitive to heights or thrills, paragliding will often be more reassuring.But if you love adrenaline and the idea of flying "like a bird", hang gliding could well win you over even more.

Can you fly in winter in Annecy?

The advantage of Annecy is that the microclimate above the lake is quite exceptional. It allows flying almost year round, including winter. It's still best to check in advance to make sure the snow cover on the launch sites isn't too heavy and incompatible with free flying.

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

To dress well for paragliding, you mainly need to factor in the day's weather and the package chosen. For a 15 minute discovery flight in the middle of summer, you can fly light in shorts and a t-shirt. In winter, spring, or autumn, though, if conditions are cool, plan for a windbreaker or even a down jacket. The same goes for cross or long cross flights, it's best to bring warm clothing and gloves.