Preparing for your first paragliding flight in Annecy: complete checklist and practical advice

Have you taken the plunge and booked your first paragliding flight over Lake Annecy? Well done! Now, a little voice in your head might be whispering: “What do I do now? What should I bring? How exactly is it going to work?” Don't panic, we'll guide you step by step to ensure your first flying experience is as peaceful as it is magical.

 

Before the big day: what you need to know

Check the weather and understand its importance

Paragliding is an activity that depends entirely on weather conditions. Unlike other leisure activities, we can't “force” nature. A beautiful sunny day seen from the valley does not necessarily guarantee ideal flying conditions at altitude.

Our instructors analyze the forecasts and actual conditions at the Col de la Forclaz on a daily basis. If the weather is not favorable on the day of your reservation, we will contact you to reschedule your flight. This flexibility is essential for your safety and enjoyment. It is better to postpone by a day or two than to leave disappointed or take unnecessary risks.

 

Confirm your booking details

A few days before your flight, check the practical information for your booking. The meeting point is always at our shop at 455 route de la Vieille Église in Doussard, 15 minutes before the scheduled takeoff time. This small margin allows us to welcome you calmly, answer any last-minute questions, and organize the groups for the shuttle.

 

Choose the package that suits your needs

If you are still unsure about the different options, here is a quick summary to help you make your choice:

 

For children and contemplative flights (morning):

• The children's baptism (under 12 years old, 10-15 min)
• The Discovery package (10-15 min, ideal for a gentle introduction)

 

For adults in more dynamic conditions (afternoon):

• The Ascendance package (20-30 min, perfect for enjoying the scenery)
• The Sensations flight (20 min + acrobatic maneuvers for adrenaline junkies)
• The Performance introductory flight (40-45 min extended flight)
• The Origin'aile flight (40-45 min + acrobatics, the perfect combination)
• The Prestige package (1 hour 15 min flight, for total immersion)
• The “Le K2” flight (1 hour 15 min + acrobatics, the ultimate experience)
• The Duo Flight package (20 to 30 minutes for an adventure with a partner, exclusive to K2!)

 

Even if you have already booked a package, please note that it is possible to change your choice at the last minute, depending on the weather conditions and your preferences on the day. Our instructors will adapt to your needs.

 

 

 

What to pack for a paragliding flight?

Appropriate clothing for the season

Altitude causes temperatures to drop, even in the middle of summer. Here are our recommendations:

• In spring and fall (April-May and September-October): opt for several layers. A breathable T-shirt, a warm sweater or fleece, and a waterproof windbreaker jacket. At altitude, it can be 10°C cooler than at the lake. The relative wind during the flight further accentuates this feeling of coolness.

• In summer (June-July-August): even if the sun is shining, don't underestimate how cool it can be at altitude. Long pants are recommended (avoid shorts), a long-sleeved T-shirt or light sweater, and always a light jacket. You can take it off if necessary, but you'll be glad you have it.

 

Important point: avoid loose-fitting clothing that can fly away or get in the way during the flight. Flying scarves and unattached hats stay on the ground!

 

Essential footwear for flying in the Alps

This is the most important piece of your equipment. For takeoff, you will need to jog a few meters on sloping ground. Sneakers or, even better, high-top hiking boots are ideal.

Absolutely avoid: flip-flops, sandals, ballet flats, high heels, and open-toed shoes. Not only are they dangerous for takeoff, but they can also injure you on landing or come off and fall during the flight.

 

Essential accessories for your first flight

• Sunglasses: essential! At altitude, the glare is intense, especially if there is snow on the surrounding peaks. Choose sunglasses with a cord to avoid losing them during the flight.
• Sunscreen: even on cloudy days, UV rays are stronger at altitude. Protect your face and neck.
• A bottle of water: to hydrate before and after the flight, especially in summer, but do not keep it on you. You can leave it in the K2 Paragliding shuttle.

 

What NOT to bring for a paragliding flight

Leave in the car or at the shop: unsecured valuables, bulky bags, and bulky clothing that you will not be wearing. Anything that is not attached to you may fall during the flight.

If you wish to take your camera or phone with you in the air, attach it securely with a strap or cord. We cannot be held responsible for any loss. As a reminder, each of our instructors takes photos and videos of your first flight, which you can view and purchase at our shop after the flight.

 

 

 

The day of the flight: step-by-step guide

1. Arrival at the Doussard shop

Please arrive 15 minutes before your flight time at our K2 Outdoor shop at 455 route de la Vieille Église in Doussard (how to get to K2 Parapente). The address is easy to find, directly on the national road towards Annecy. A large, free private car park is available, so you won't have any trouble parking.

Our team will give you a warm welcome, check your booking and answer any last-minute questions you may have. This is the time to let us know if you have any particular concerns or questions. We are here to reassure you.

 

2. Briefing with your instructor

In the shuttle that takes you to the Col de la Forclaz, your instructor will explain the flight procedure. No complicated technical talk, just the essential information: how to take off, what you will have to do (spoiler: almost nothing!), how to land.

This is also an opportunity to get to know your pilot. All our instructors are certified, insured, and have thousands of hours of flight time under their belts. Some have nearly 30 years of experience and have competed at a high level. You are in very good hands. You can meet our passionate team here.

 

3. Takeoff from the Col de la Forclaz

Arriving at the takeoff point is often an emotionally intense moment. The view of Lake Annecy, La Tournette, and the Aravis mountains is breathtaking. You begin to realize that you are really going to fly above all of this!

Your instructor will equip you with a harness (your seat in the air, much more comfortable than a sofa!), give you the final instructions, and off you go. After a few quick strides, you will feel the wing lift you up, and you will rise gently into the air. No jump into the void, no feeling of falling. Just a magical transition between earth and sky.

 

4. During the flight

Once in the air, settle comfortably into your harness. You are seated in front of the pilot, who is behind you, and the landscape is spread out before you. The turquoise lake below, Annecy in the background, the alpine villages, the majestic mountains... It's time to enjoy the moment to the fullest.

Your instructor takes care of everything: navigation, finding thermal updrafts to prolong the flight, safety. All you have to do is let yourself be carried away and savor these unique moments. Feel free to talk to your pilot, ask questions, and share your feelings.

If you've opted for a thrill-seeking package, it's time for some acrobatic maneuvers: sharp turns, wing-overs, 360s... Pure adrenaline guaranteed! If you prefer to sit back and enjoy the view, your instructor will adapt the flight for maximum smoothness.

 

5. Landing in Doussard

Your pilot will warn you a few minutes before landing. You return to a standing position, take a few steps on the grass, and you're back on solid ground. The landing is smooth on our landing zone in Doussard.

This is where your companions can wait for you and share your still-fresh emotions. We will tell you the colors of your wing so that they can spot you during the flight.

 

6. Return to the shop

The shuttle will pick you up and take you back to K2 Parapente headquarters. Back at our shop, it's time to view your photos and videos. Relive your flight from another angle with the images captured by your instructor. If you would like to take these memories home with you, you can purchase them directly.

 

 

 

Frequently asked questions before a first flight

Can I fly if I'm afraid of heights?

This is THE question we hear most often, and the answer will reassure you: yes, you can fly even if you're afraid of heights! Vertigo occurs when our brain receives two contradictory pieces of information: our eyes see the void below, but our feet confirm that we are on the ground.

In paragliding, this contradiction does not exist. Your feet and eyes send the same message to your brain: you are in the air! No feeling of vertigo, just the magical sensation of flying like a bird. A slight apprehension at takeoff is normal and even healthy, but it usually disappears within the first few seconds of flight.

 

Can my companion come to the takeoff point?

Takeoff is quick and the Col de la Forclaz site is quite narrow. We advise companions to stay at the landing site in Doussard, where they can watch you throughout the flight and share your emotions as soon as you land. It's much more enjoyable to experience this moment together at the finish.

We will tell them the colors of your wing so that they can follow you with their eyes as you descend towards the lake.

 

Can I bring my camera?

Yes, you can bring your camera or smartphone with you during the flight. But be sure to secure it with a strap or a strong cord. If you lose it during the flight, we cannot be held responsible.

Each of our pilots takes photos and videos of your first flight with a selfie stick. The images are high quality and allow you to fully enjoy your flight without worrying about capturing the right moments. You can view them at our shop after landing and purchase them if you wish.

 

What happens in case of bad weather?

Paragliding can be practiced in all seasons. However, safety always takes precedence over scheduling. If the weather conditions are not good on the day of your reservation, we will contact you to reschedule your flight together. Sometimes, what looks gray and uninviting from below actually offers excellent conditions at altitude. That's why you should trust our team and our experience of the site.

If we really can't find a new date that suits you, you will of course receive a full refund. But in the vast majority of cases, simply postponing by a day or two is enough to enjoy perfect conditions. Find out more about the ideal weather conditions for paragliding.

 

Is there a weight limit?

There is no strict weight limit for a paragliding initiation. We adapt the equipment and flight times to each person's physique. Lighter people (especially children) will fly in the morning when the air is calm. Heavier people will fly in the afternoon when the aerodynamic conditions are more favorable. Paragliding is a unique opportunity to discover nature in a different way, especially for children who are new to paragliding.

The most important thing is your desire to fly and your ability to jog a few meters at takeoff.

 

Do you need to be in good physical condition?

No special physical condition is required. Takeoff at the Col de la Forclaz is accessible to everyone. You just need to be able to walk a few meters, and with a little wind, even that becomes very easy. Everything happens naturally, or almost!

If you have a disability, don't worry. Anything is possible in paragliding, that's what's so magical about it. Just let us know your situation when you book, and we'll suggest the most suitable times and techniques for you.

 

Is there a risk of getting airsick?

Some people are prone to motion sickness in cars or boats. If this is the case for you and you are apprehensive about this sensation, opt for a morning flight with the Discovery package. It is a calm flight, a long glide over the lake, with a gentle landing.

Rest assured, the sensations of paragliding are nothing like those of fairground rides or land transport. One of our best pilots, who is an aerial acrobatics enthusiast, gets sick after three turns on a children's fairground ride! The references are not the same. And whatever happens, the pilot will adapt the flight to your feelings and comfort.

To find out more about all these questions and many others, check out our comprehensive FAQ for your first paragliding flight.

 

 

 

After the flight: prolong the experience

Offer a gift voucher to your loved ones

You've just had an extraordinary experience and you think your friends or family would love it too? We offer gift vouchers for paragliding flights over Lake Annecy. An original and breathtaking gift, with souvenir photos and videos, that will leave a much more lasting impression than yet another object.

Gift vouchers are valid for all our packages, for both adults and children. It's the perfect opportunity for a birthday, a party, or simply to treat someone special.

 

Discover other outdoor activities around the lake

After your flight, why not explore the region in a different way? Our K2 Outdoor shop offers bike, mountain bike, hybrid bike, and electric bike rentals so you can explore the magnificent bike paths around Lake Annecy. It's another way to enjoy this exceptional setting, this time on wheels. Take a look at our selection of the best hikes around Annecy.

 

Learn to fly independently with our courses

Has your first flight made you want to go further? Why not learn to fly yourself?

K2 Parapente is first and foremost an FFVL-certified flying school.

 

We offer various paragliding courses in Annecy for independent pilots:

 

• SIV courses (Simulation of Flight Incidents) for safety
• Cross-country courses (pilot's license level) for completely independent flight and discovering new sites over distance
• Thermal courses for experienced pilots to discover your best abilities
• Private lessons for a personalized workshop tailored to your needs

 

Our team of qualified instructors will put all their experience and teaching skills at your service to help you progress in complete safety. Perfect your independent flying skills above one of the most beautiful sites in Europe!

 

 

 

Ready for adventure?

You now have everything you need to tackle your first paragliding flight in Annecy with confidence. The essentials to remember? Warm clothes, good shoes, sunglasses, and above all, a healthy dose of enthusiasm and curiosity.

 

The rest is our job. Our passionate instructors, our state-of-the-art equipment, our perfect knowledge of the Col de la Forclaz site, and our experience of tens of thousands of successful flights are there to make your first flight a magical and unforgettable moment.

 

So take a deep breath, put your trust in the team, and get ready for one of the most beautiful experiences of your life. Lake Annecy seen from the sky awaits you!

If you have any further questions or would like to book your flight, contact us. Our team will be happy to provide you with information and help you prepare for this unique adventure!