The Yarra Valley is stunning and famous for wine and icons. Among all the adventures you can do here, the hot air balloon ride is the most unforgettable. Thousands of feet in the air, you will see vineyards, forests, and the natural beauty of the stunning landscape below. Whether you want an experience for a special occasion or to see the sunrise, a hot air balloon in the Yarra Valley is the way to go.
History of Hot Air Ballooning
Unforgettable Adventure
A hot air ballooning experience is a one off adventure activity. The gentle lift into the sky and being carried by the wind is a peaceful and interactive experience. As you fly over the patchwork of vineyards and natural amphitheatres like Lake Eildon you’ll be treated to the breathtaking views and icons that make the Yarra Valley famous. For an experience to remember the Yarra Valley Balloon Flight is the way to go.
Best Time to Fly
The best time to have a hot air balloon in the Yarra Valley is in the morning, just before sunrise. This is when the air is calmest and the flight is smoothest. The hour before sunrise is quiet and peaceful, so it’s even more special to see the sunrise. Flights are weather dependent, so bookings are often flexible to ensure the best conditions for ballooning.
Table: Seasonal Views from Your Hot Air Balloon
| Season | Iconic Views from the Balloon |
|---|---|
| Spring | Lush green fields, blooming wildflowers, and vibrant foliage |
| Summer | Sun-drenched vineyards, golden fields, and crystal-clear skies |
| Autumn | Fiery reds, oranges, and yellows across the vineyards and rolling hills |
| Winter | Misty mornings, snow-capped mountains, and serene, quiet landscapes |
Every season brings its own colours and landscapes, so every hot air ballooning experience is a new one.
What to Expect
Experienced Pilots and Safe Operations
All hot air ballooning in the Yarra Valley is operated by friendly ballooning guides who put safety first. All pilots are experienced, fully licensed and certified to give you a safe and enjoyable experience. Ground crew and ground insurance is in place to cover all aspects of the flight from takeoff to landing. You will experience safe operations with regular equipment checks, weather checks, safety briefings before and after the flight and deflation processes on landing.
Comfortable Balloons
Options to Suit You
The Views: What You’ll See
Combine Your Hot Air Balloon Flight with a Wine Tour
After taking in the views of the Yarra Valley from above, many people choose to add on a wine tour. The valley is home to some of Australia’s best wineries, including Balgownie Estate, which offers a gourmet champagne breakfast as part of its hot air ballooning packages. For a full day of pampering, why not combine your flight with a wine region tour and visit cellar doors, taste award-winning wines and see the beautiful architecture of the vineyards?
Top Tips
To make your hot air ballooning experience as special as possible:
Dress in layers: Early morning flights can be cold, but they warm up quickly once you’re in the air.
Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be standing for the duration of the flight, so make sure your shoes are up to the task.
Bring a camera: The bird’s eye view photos you’ll take will be the best you’ve ever taken so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Arrive early: The event time for a hot air balloon ride is usually an hour before sunrise, so plan to arrive with plenty of time to enjoy the full experience from setup to launch.
Be flexible: Remember ballooning is weather dependent so you may need to adjust your plans if the conditions aren’t right.
FAQ
How long is the hot air balloon flight in the Yarra Valley?
The flight itself is 60 minutes but the whole experience including setup and breakfast is around 3-4 hours.
Is the hot air ballooning safe?
Yes, the hot air ballooning experience is very safe. Expert pilots and ground crew follow strict safety protocols to ensure a smooth and safe ride.
Can I take photos during the balloon flight?
Yes! Bring a camera or smartphone and take in the bird’s eye view of the valley. The basket is big enough to get some great shots.
Are hotel transfers included?
Many operators offer hotel transfers as part of the package. Check with your chosen operator for details.
What to wear?
Comfortable, layered clothing and flat, closed shoes. It’s cold in the morning so dress in layers.
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