Soar from Col de la Forclaz above crystalline Lake Annecy on a tandem performance flight that blends panoramic views with acrobatic maneuvers. This 60‑minute experience pairs professional pilots with reliable Alpine thermals for a high-adrenaline aerial tour.
Soar from Col de la Forclaz above crystalline Lake Annecy on a tandem performance flight that blends panoramic views with acrobatic maneuvers. This 60‑minute experience pairs professional pilots with reliable Alpine thermals for a high-adrenaline aerial tour.
You lift from a narrow ridge as the wind tugs at the canopy; below, Lake Annecy stretches like a bright, glinting blade between mountains. The pilot checks lines, the wing blooms, and for the next hour the air shapes the ride — tight turns, wing-overs, and a 360° that pins you gently to the seat while the lake dares you to blink.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Annecy Takamaka · Doussard, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
You lift from a narrow ridge as the wind tugs at the canopy; below, Lake Annecy stretches like a bright, glinting blade between mountains. The pilot checks lines, the wing blooms, and for the next hour the air shapes the ride — tight turns, wing-overs, and a 360° that pins you gently to the seat while the lake dares you to blink.
This tandem performance flight launches from Col de la Forclaz, one of Europe’s premier free-flight sites, and lands near Doussard on Lake Annecy’s southern shore. The geology here is raw Alpine: limestone ridgelines carved by glaciers, steep forested slopes, and the lake basin formed by post-glacial meltwater. Local culture combines mountain guide traditions with a long history of outdoor sports; paragliding became popular here in the late 20th century because of reliable thermals and clear alpine air.
Practicalities are straightforward: meet at the Takamaka chalet in Doussard for a shuttle to the takeoff. Flights last around 60 minutes and include acrobatic maneuvers guided by a professional pilot; helmet is provided. The operator enforces a 110 kg max and excludes pregnant travelers and those with serious heart conditions. Expect to walk a short distance at takeoff, wear closed shoes, bring a windbreaker and sunglasses, and allow for manual confirmation and weather-related cancellation.
For photographers, the morning light sharpens ridgelines while late afternoon thermals can make the ride livelier. Book early in warm months and plan for quick weather-based changes — the mountains decide the day.
easy.
1 hour.
Minimal fitness required — able to walk a short distance and run a few steps at takeoff.
The full tandem flight experience is about 60 minutes from takeoff to landing, though total outing time includes shuttle and prep.
You meet at the Takamaka chalet in the Doussard multipurpose parking lot; a shuttle will bring you to Col de la Forclaz takeoff.
Participants must be under 110 kg and the activity is not recommended for those with serious cardiovascular problems or pregnant travelers.
Flights are canceled in unsafe weather; the operator will cancel without refund options if conditions prevent flying, so plan flexibility into your trip.
Paragliding flourished around Lake Annecy in the late 20th century as pilots used reliable thermals and cliff launches like Col de la Forclaz; the area quickly became a European hub for free-flight sports.
Operators encourage minimal-impact landings and follow local rules to protect nesting raptors; stick to designated paths at takeoff/landing to limit soil erosion.
Annecy Takamaka operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




You lift from a narrow ridge as the wind tugs at the canopy; below, Lake Annecy stretches like a bright, glinting blade between mountains. The pilot checks lines, the wing blooms, and for the next hour the air shapes the ride — tight turns, wing-overs, and a 360° that pins you gently to the seat while the lake dares you to blink.
You lift from a narrow ridge as the wind tugs at the canopy; below, Lake Annecy stretches like a bright, glinting blade between mountains. The pilot checks lines, the wing blooms, and for the next hour the air shapes the ride — tight turns, wing-overs, and a 360° that pins you gently to the seat while the lake dares you to blink.
This tandem performance flight launches from Col de la Forclaz, one of Europe’s premier free-flight sites, and lands near Doussard on Lake Annecy’s southern shore. The geology here is raw Alpine: limestone ridgelines carved by glaciers, steep forested slopes, and the lake basin formed by post-glacial meltwater. Local culture combines mountain guide traditions with a long history of outdoor sports; paragliding became popular here in the late 20th century because of reliable thermals and clear alpine air.
Practicalities are straightforward: meet at the Takamaka chalet in Doussard for a shuttle to the takeoff. Flights last around 60 minutes and include acrobatic maneuvers guided by a professional pilot; helmet is provided. The operator enforces a 110 kg max and excludes pregnant travelers and those with serious heart conditions. Expect to walk a short distance at takeoff, wear closed shoes, bring a windbreaker and sunglasses, and allow for manual confirmation and weather-related cancellation.
For photographers, the morning light sharpens ridgelines while late afternoon thermals can make the ride livelier. Book early in warm months and plan for quick weather-based changes — the mountains decide the day.