On a cold winter's morning in Melbourne hot air balloon enthusiasts take to the sky rising above the vineyards in the Yarra Valley as the sun dispels the mist revealing a lush, undulating landscape. In Sydney passengers float over the Harbour City or across the treetops of the Blue Mountains. In far north Queensland wedding vows are exchanged above a tropical landscape. And in the Northern Territory adventurers marvel at the breathtaking vista as the balloon glides over the Red Centre at dawn.
Ballooning Over Yarra Valley Wineries
Since 1986 Balloon Sunrise has carried over 60,000 passengers on its sunrise adventures. Flying high above the picturesque Yarra Valley passengers literally get a bird's eye view of the vineyards and wineries.
Surprisingly the temperature isn't that much cooler in the air as it is on the ground, but in winter it is advised to wear warm clothing, and clothing that may get soiled; water mixed with carbon can drip from the burners and may stain.
This particular balloon ride starts and finishes at the Balgownie Estate Winery where guests will enjoy a 5-star gourmet breakfast on return. To get to the Balgownie Winery travel north through the Yarra Glen township. The Balgownie turn off is approximately 4km from the town.
Hot Air Balloon Adventure Alice Springs
There are a number of hot air balloon operators in Alice Springs. Most rides depart before dawn to reach the launching spot - which may change depending on the time of year and the weather.
An Alice Springs hot air balloon ride is something to behold. As the sun comes up in the Red Centre passengers are treated to a visual feast as daylight hits the red earth and lights the scrub that is unique to this region. With the magnificent MacDonnell Ranges as a backdrop expect to see large red kangaroos and other wildlife.
Hot Air Balloon Rides In Sydney
In Sydney hot air balloon rides can take passengers on a metroplitan adventure where the balloon glides across the city giving a spectacular view of one of the most photographed harbours in the world.
And if the prevailing wind prevents a flight across the city, then Sydney's Balloon Aloft will take its passengers towards the Blue Mountains to float above the magnificent Nepean River gorge.
Hot Air Balloon Weddings Australia
Today there are locations all around the world where couples can take their marriage vows in a hot air balloon.
In Australia in Far North Queensland a growing number of couples are saying "I do" as they float quietly above the tropical paradises of Palm Cove and Cairns. In fact hot air balloon weddings have become big business with many celebrants adding the 'venue' to their list of options.
These hot air balloon weddings cater for the celebrant, the couple and the two witnesses as required by Australian law.
And in Byron Bay on the coast of New South Wales hot air balloon rides are becoming the 'hottest' place to pop the question with hot air balloon 'proposal' packages available.
Alison Stieven-Taylor - Writing is my passion. I've been a freelance journalist for more than a decade and have written for a variety of magazines from Rolling ...
