Bisanne Sud

Bisanne Sud sits at just under 2,000 m above the Les Saisies ski resort in the Beaufortain, one of the most family-friendly bases for a paragliding holiday in the French Alps. The main takeoff faces south-east, right next to the altitude restaurant and the parking. On summer days, though, arriving too late (from midday on) often means the valley breeze is already blowing on your back from the north — an alternative takeoff on the map lets you launch in a northerly and reach the south face in the lee. Not recommended in strong northerlies. A great warm-up for the Aravis in spring; finish your day at Le Cormet de Roselend for evening soaring flights in the breeze.

Launch & conditions

Main takeoff at 1,940 m on the top south-east side, next to the altitude restaurant and parking. Alternative takeoff (shown on the map) usable in a northerly to reach the south face in the lee — discouraged in strong northerly wind.

Getting there & local rules

From Albertville drive to Les Saisies. Landing area is on the way; then continue up into the resort, turn left, and follow the road to the end at the altitude restaurant. In winter and spring (snow lingers to around early May) the road to launch is unusable by car — use the chairlift with a one-way ticket for paragliders. In July and August there are (free in 2020) buses from Beaufort or Villard-sur-Doron up to Les Saisies, plus the chairlift.

Local rules & hazards

Later in the day the valley breeze can be stronger than the thermals and come in from behind — plan for a morning or early afternoon flight, or use the alternative takeoff. Strong northerly wind: do not fly here.

Check conditions before you fly

A forecast for the valley is not a forecast for the launch. Before heading to Bisanne Sud, read the wind and thermals for the site itself, confirm the day's rules with the local club, and remember the standing rule — when in doubt, don't launch. In the free OutDare app you can open Bisanne Sud with a 7-day forecast built from high-resolution weather models, see who else has been flying, and get there with offline maps.