Ready to take your flying to the next level?
Whether you’re here to sharpen your thermalling, nail those top landings, or push further along the classic XC routes, Saint-Hilaire is the kind of playground that keeps you coming back for more.
From smooth morning glass-offs to mellow evening restitutions, every flight here teaches you something — sometimes about the air, sometimes about yourself. All of it happens above stunning scenery and in good company, surrounded by a tight, passionate community of pilots who just can’t get enough of this place.
When to come to Saint Hilaire ?
Spring in Saint-Hilaire offers incredible opportunities for thermal flying and big cross-country adventures — with some XC seasons starting as early as mid-March.
In early summer, it’s not uncommon for flight schools to send their students off as early as 7 a.m., taking advantage of the gentle slope breeze already in place. By 11, experienced pilots take over from the students and start mapping out their plans — whether for local thermalling sessions, chasing the big cliffs above the plateau, or even attempting bold crossings toward the Belledonne, Bauges, or Vercors massifs.
During August and September, conditions tend to be more stable — ideal for high-altitude thermalling workshops — and of course, the Coupe Icare arrives in the third week of September, bringing a festive energy to the skies.
October can be one of the most stunning months of the year, marking the peak of the hike-and-fly season, though it also becomes a bit less reliable as the Azores high-pressure system weakens.
During the winter months, we trade our bigger wings for our hike-and-fly toys and focus on precision landings — sometimes skiing, sometimes after a grueling hike up a local site as fast as possible. The MEVPA Challenge (Marche et Vol et Précision d’Atterrissage, or Hike & Fly and Precision Landing Challenge) runs from October to March and keeps the local flying spirit alive all winter long. More info →
And don’t forget: the shuttle between landing and takeoff runs every day in July and August, and on weekends from April to June. It takes just 30 minutes and costs only €5 per trip — perfect for keeping the flying day rolling smoothly.
Weather Insights
Why come to Saint Hilaire? I might be a little biased, but Im’ pretty sure Saint Hilaire is the French Alp’s site with most flyable days in the year. If not in first place, it’s a least on the podium.
Saint Hilaire is nestled on the foothills of the Chartreuse massif, perched on 1000m high Plateau. This 80 km long massif, spreading north to south, offers perfect protection from low pressure systems and strong westerlies.
On the other side of the valley, the Belledonne massif protects us from most systems coming South Est to South.
I might be a little biased, but I’m pretty sure Saint-Hilaire is the site in the French Alps with the most flyable days in a year. And if it’s not in first place, it’s definitely on the podium.
Saint-Hilaire sits on the foothills of the Chartreuse massif, perched on a 1000-meter-high plateau. This 80 km-long mountain range stretches north to south, providing excellent protection from low-pressure systems and strong westerlies.
Across the valley, the Belledonne range shields us from most systems coming from the southeast to south.
With moderate northerly winds, Saint-Hilaire becomes a fantastic playground — whether you’re an aspiring thermal pilot or an enthusiastic XC adventurer. However, when the northerlies pick up too much, heading to the Combe de Savoie area (Montlambert – Chamoux) is often a safer and more comfortable choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important Safety Guidelines for Flying at Saint Hilaire
When flying at Saint Hilaire, make sure to always check the weather conditions before your flight. Follow all local regulations, maintain a safe distance from other pilots, and inform someone about your flight plans. It’s also essential to wear the appropriate safety gear.
To fly at our site, you need a certified glider, harness, and helmet. Make sure each piece of equipment is in good condition and meets safety standards. Checking your gear before each flight can help prevent accidents.
Yes, we offer tandem flights guided by our experienced instructors. This is a great way for beginners to experience flying safely while enjoying a breathtaking view with an expert by their side.
If you encounter any issues during your flight, try to land in a safe open area. Use your radio to contact the rescue team if necessary. Having a plan and knowing where to go for help is crucial.
We encourage new pilots to take introductory lessons with our certified instructors before flying solo. Having proper training ensures your safety and helps you better understand the sport.
Have more questions?
We’re here to help you with all your inquiries. Whether you’re curious about the location, the equipment, or flying regulations, feel free to reach out. Your safety and experience matter to us!
What Our Flyers Say
Hear from our satisfied flyers—check out their experiences.
Want to soar with us? Let’s talk!
Curious about paragliding in Saint Hilaire? Whether you’re a beginner or seeking advanced insights, we’re here to help. Reach out for detailed info on our services, logistics, or just to chat about the best flying spots. Your adventure begins with a simple question!