Annecy might well be called the most popular site in Europe.

 

When you’re not flying, you can book a canyoning adventure, climb a mountain, or just lazily sunbath on the shores of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.  The town of Annecy has also been referred to as “the Venice of France” for its canals flowing past cobblestone streets and squares loaded with tiny boutique shops, intimate cafes, and historical landmarks waiting to be explored.

High above this beautiful alpine village is “Le Lachat de Chatillion” With a wonderful view of the high alps, this large grassy takeoff is an ideal place get acquainted with high alpine flying.  Located roughly 1000 meters above Grand Bornand, this site is easily accessed via gondola, and chairlift in July and August.  Pilots enjoy clearing their gliders and launching from this perfect sloping takeoff, which generally faces directly into the wind. Takeoff is easy and a house thermal generally lifts right in front of the launch, getting you off to a high start.

This small city in the heartland of Brazil doesn't get much attention from your average tourist, but thanks to the lone Ibituruna Mountain, rising high above the plains, paragliders can get up to the smooth, abundant thermals and cruise as far as the eye can see. The rural environment outside of the city provides heaps of places to land and a variety of easy ways to make it back to town. Locals are friendly and there are several vibrant hot spots to frequent after you've secured your best XC flights ever.