The flying areas around Lake Annecy are among the most beautiful in the western Alps, if only for their views.
The deep blue lake with its distinctive shape is nestled among the imposing ridges and peaks of the Massif des Bornes in the French Alps.
At sufficient altitude, an impressive view opens up over Lake Geneva to the north, the Aravis chain and Mont Blanc to the east, and the endless peaks of Beaufortin, Vanoise and Bauges to the south and west.
Well shielded and protected, this creates its own microclimate with favourable flying conditions.
Location
The perfectly prepared launch site of Montmin on the Col de la Forclaz is the starting point for our training flights over water, which take place in calm, low-wind conditions until midday hours. An altitude difference of around 800 metres provides ample time for training. We land at the southern end of the lake directly in front of our campsite, whereby this landing site is reserved exclusively for SIV courses.
Regardless of cable car opening hours, the flexible shuttle bus service and the ideal infrastructure of short distances allow us to make the most of each day.
Why Annecy?
With its western orientation, the site also offers good thermal and cross-country flying options from the afternoon until late in the evening for enjoyable free flying. The imposing steep limestone cliffs often generate good thermals until sunset. A classic is the small tour around the lake, which offers plenty of visual variety and, depending on the distance, 15 to 20 kilometres of cross-country flying. The landing site is the large and easy landing field north of the village of Doussard, a 15-minute walk from the campsite.
For those who want to get to know the flying area in this way, our ‘Master & Flow’ format combines safety training with thermal and cross-country flight training. It is the perfect balance between safety, progress and adventure.
Acommodation
Accommodation is not included in the price and must be booked directly with the provider.
We recommend the Sandaya La Nublière campsite, located directly at the southern end of Lake Annecy. With the SIV landing site right on its doorstep, it is the most convenient option for our training. We are also staying there – our common tent is located next to pitches 306 and 307, from where the shuttle bus to the launch site also departs. This means you have short distances to walk and can take a relaxing break at any time, which makes the course very enjoyable.
The following options are available at the campsite:
- Premium Cottages – Modern, comfortable accommodation with two to three bedrooms, kitchen, shower, separate toilet, heating and air conditioning.
The cottages have a fully equipped kitchen, as well as duvets, pillows, bed linen and towels. - Lodge Tents – A luxury camping option with sleeping cabins, kitchen, bathroom, and a covered balcony.
- Bring your own setup – Campervan, caravan, or tent? Reserve your own pitch and stay on your terms.
Due to the often high demand, we recommend booking early; online booking is also mandatory on the part of the campsite.
Camping Sandaya “La Nublière”
30 Allée de la Nublière
74219 Doussard, France
How to get here
The nearest major airport is Geneva (GVA) in Switzerland, just about 1 hour from Annecy and is connected by regular bus and shuttle services to Annecy and Doussard. Other close airports are Lyon or Chambéry in France.
If you’re arriving by train, head to Annecy station, then take a regional bus or taxi to Doussard (approx. 30–40 minutes). If you’re coming by car or campervan, there’s easy access and parking directly at the campsite.
Catering
As the flying days tend to be longer, there is the option of contributing to the catering – however, this is not included in the price. We organise half board with a generous breakfast and dinner, with vegetarian options also available. This allows you to start the day relaxed and end it comfortably. It is also possible to choose only the dinner option, for example.
Otherwise, there are various restaurants and shopping facilities nearby.
Other sports and leisure options
With its combination of mountains and lake, the region offers something for everyone, from hiking, biking and climbing to kitesurfing, sailing and stand-up paddleboarding. Narrow gorges can be explored by canyoning and those who prefer a more relaxed pace, can ride the fully developed cycle path around the lake, stopping off in the romantic old town of Annecy. And last but not least, an hour’s drive away, you can also take a trip to Geneva or Chamonix at the foot of Mont Blanc.
Annecy, France
Europe’s top paragliding destination – and your training ground.
