Earlier this June, we hosted an unforgettable edition of SkyWeek France, set entirely in the heart of Burgundy. Surrounded by rolling hills, open farmland, and historic towns, the region provided the perfect backdrop for a week of adventurous paramotoring. With ideal conditions, scenic flying routes, and a motivated group of pilots, the week delivered exactly what SkyWeek is all about.
We were based at an airfield just outside Pouilly en Auxois, where pilots set up camp and completed equipment checks. After a short safety briefing and weather overview, we launched into a calm sunset flight, followed by a great team BBQ.
The first couple of mornings were dedicated to shorter local flights over the nearby Châteauneuf en Auxois and Commarin Châteaux. With a heatwave in full swing, we wrapped up flying by 10 a.m. each day. Afternoons were spent exploring the local area, cooling off in the campsite pool, or catching up on some much-needed rest.
Our first big adventure was a 50 kilometre cross country flight to Semur en Auxois, a beautifully preserved medieval town perched above a river. We launched at sunrise into smooth, still air and cruised in loose formation across the classic Burgundy landscape. We landed at a quiet airfield just outside town, where we were met by Ted. Some of the group took a short trip into town to explore the cobbled streets and enjoy a well-earned coffee. Others refuelled and flew back to Pouilly en Auxois. By then, the thermals had started to build, making for a noticeably bumpier return flight, giving the pilots a valuable experience of active flying skills in more dynamic air.
The Iconic Flight to Vézelay
The highlight for many came with a 65 kilometre flight to Vézelay, one of the most iconic hilltop villages in France. Once again, we launched into calm morning skies and flew for around an hour and a half across beautiful, undulating countryside. We landed in a familiar field we had used back in 2020, about five kilometres from the village. After Ted arrived in the van, we packed up our kit and enjoyed a well-earned boozy lunch, followed by a refreshing swim in the river.
Toward the end of the trip, we were hit by one of the most powerful thunderstorms the region had seen in years. Fortunately, we had been monitoring the forecast and were able to plan accordingly, but others at the campsite were not so lucky. The next morning, after a sleepless night, the team awoke to scenes of devastation. Gust fronts had exceeded 100 kilometres per hour, destroying tents, toppling trees, and flattening anything not secured. Once the storm passed, the air calmed and we were able to fly again that evening, followed by another flight the next day, bringing us to an impressive seven flying days out of seven.
Why Skyweek France Stands Out
SkyWeek France is about more than just airtime. It offers pilots the opportunity to build confidence, gain real-world cross country experience, and enjoy a flying holiday with like- minded people. With expert guidance, no pressure, and a focus on progression, it is the perfect stepping stone between training and solo adventure.
Many pilots from this trip are already signed up for the next SkyWeek France from 6 to 13 September, and some are also joining the Paragliding Course in Chamonix the following week, from 13 to 20 September.
Join the Next Adventure
If you’d like to join a future SkyWeek or want to find out more, email me at alex@skyopsx.com or WhatsApp me on +44 7747 097527.
