France

What?

France, a country of timeless charm, offers breathtaking landscapes, world-renowned cuisine, and a deep cultural heritage. From May through September, the Alps and other iconic flying sites enjoy friendly thermals and dynamic mountain winds, creating exceptional conditions for both soaring and cross-country flights. Whether launching from the towering peaks of Annecy or the legendary cliffs of St. Hilaire, France delivers an unforgettable paragliding adventure.

Our trip includes five incredible days of flying in some of France’s best paragliding locations. Afterward, we’ll head to the world-famous Coupe Icare festival, where you’ll experience the biggest celebration of free flight, with airshows, costumes, film screenings, and a vibrant atmosphere unlike any other. You’ll also have the opportunity to fly at the event and test/demo the latest wings from top manufacturers

Who?

The diverse flying conditions in France make this trip ideal for pilots of all levels. Whether you're a newly certified P2 looking to gain experience in alpine conditions or a seasoned pilot eager for epic cross-country flights, this adventure offers something for everyone.

Where?

Our adventure takes us to some of the best paragliding sites in the French Alps, with stunning landscapes and varied flying conditions. Based around Grenoble, we’ll explore:

St. Hilaire de Touvet – One of the region’s top flying sites, offering reliable conditions and XC potential.
La Scia – A scenic site in the Chartreuse range, great for stable conditions.
Mont Lambert – A morning site with easy access to the Bauges and Annecy regions.
Aiguebelette – A beautiful afternoon site with lake views, ideal in south winds.
Courtet – A dramatic alpine site, great in stronger north winds.
Annecy – A world-famous flying destination with excellent XC routes.
Le Sire – A west-facing site near Chambéry, a good alternative in strong south winds.
Chamonix – Iconic high-mountain flying with breathtaking scenery.
Passy – A well-sheltered site at the entrance of the Chamonix Valley.
Les Saisies – A high-alpine site above Albertville, best in south winds.

Format

For the first seven days, we’ll choose the best flying site based on weather conditions, drive there, and spend the day soaring with in-air coaching to help you maximize your flights.

The final three days will be spent at the Coupe Icare festival, where you’ll have the freedom to enjoy the event however you like—whether that’s flying, testing out demo wings, or soaking in the incredible atmosphere of the world’s biggest free-flight festival.

2025 Schedule

September 11th: Meet in Geneva and drive to Grenoble

September 12th - 18th: Flying days, sites will be dependent on weather

September 19th - 21st: Flying at St. Hilaire and enjoying the Coupe Icare

September 22nd: Drive back to Geneva

Not Included in Tour:

Airfare
Travel Insurance (required) -> Please sign up using our affiliate link: https://partner.globalrescue.com/northwestparagliding/index.html
Lunch / Dinner / Drinks

Pricing

The France tour costs $3750 and includes the following:

11 nights accommodation (breakfast included)
All transport through out the trip (rides to launch, retrieve after flying)
Site briefings
Launch assistance and world class in-air coaching for all level of pilots
Site fees
In flight photos