From Chenonceau: Loire Valley Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soaring over the enchanting Loire Valley in a hot air balloon is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. Departing from the picturesque town of Chenonceau, this 3.5-hour excursion promises breathtaking vistas of historic castles, verdant vineyards, and meandering rivers. With an approximate one-hour flight time, guests can soak in the region’s serene beauty at sunrise or sunset. Whether you’re a couple seeking romance or a solo adventurer, this hot air balloon ride offers an unforgettable perspective of one of France’s most captivating landscapes.

Key Points

• Hot air balloon ride in the Loire Valley, departing from the meeting point near Château de Chenonceau, priced at $300.36 per person.
• Excursion lasts 3.5 hours with approximately 1 hour of flight time, offering breathtaking views of the valleys, castles, and vineyards.
• Includes round-trip transfer, complimentary drinks at the landing site, and a traditional post-flight celebration.
• Children under 6, pregnant women, heart problem patients, and wheelchair users are prohibited from participating.
• Operates daily from April to October, with morning flights at 7 AM and evening flights at 6 PM, subject to weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Experience a hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley from $300.36 per person.

A hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley awaits from $300.36 per person.

This 3.5-hour excursion includes around 1 hour of flight time, offering breathtaking views of the region’s landscapes during the calm winds and stable air of sunrise or sunset.

Soar above the picturesque valleys, castles, and vineyards that make the Loire Valley a popular tourist destination.

The total experience provides a unique perspective on this stunning part of France.

Inclusions and Logistics

The hot air balloon ride includes round-trip transfer from the meeting point to the launch site, complimentary drinks at the landing site, and a traditional toast des Aéronautes celebration upon touching down. Guests can enjoy a flexible booking policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. To secure your spot without upfront payment, you can reserve now and pay later.

| Inclusions | Details |

| — | — |

| Transportation | Round-trip transfer from meeting point to launch site |

| Refreshments | Complimentary drinks at landing site |

| Celebration | Traditional toast des Aéronautes |

| Booking | Free cancellation up to 24 hours, reserve now, pay later |

Safety and Restrictions

Although the hot air balloon ride offers a thrilling experience, there are certain safety and restrictions in place to ensure the well-being of all participants.

Children under 6 years old, pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, and wheelchair users aren’t permitted to join the ride.

Plus, high-heeled shoes, pets, smoking, and large bags aren’t allowed. Passengers are advised to wear practical walking shoes and trousers for comfort during the flight.

These safety measures are essential to provide a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone aboard the hot air balloon.

Meeting Point and Schedule

The meeting point for the hot air balloon ride is located at La Gourmandiere, 24 rue de Chenonceau, Francueil 37150. The balloon rides operate daily from April to October, with flights scheduled in the morning and evening, depending on weather conditions. This includes national holidays.

| Schedule | Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday |

|———-|——–|———|———-|

| Morning | 7 AM | 7 AM | 7 AM |

| Evening | 6 PM | 6 PM | 6 PM |

Guests should arrive at the meeting point 30 minutes prior to their scheduled flight time.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 15 reviews.

Customers have overwhelmingly praised the hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars based on 15 reviews.

The ratings highlight:

• Excellent guide and transportation services (4.5/5)

• Good value for money (3.9/5)

• Suitability for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families

• Breathtaking landscapes during sunrise or sunset

• Comfortable 1-hour flight duration and generous 3.5-hour total excursion time

The reviews suggest this hot air balloon experience offers a memorable and enjoyable way to explore the picturesque Loire Valley from the sky.

Booking and Reservation Process

To book the hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley, visitors can reserve their spot online without any upfront payment.

The booking process is straightforward – customers select their preferred date and time, provide contact details, and confirm the reservation. Payment isn’t required until the day of the ride.

This flexible approach allows travelers to secure their place in advance while having the option to cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

The balloon rides operate daily from April to October, catering to individuals, couples, and groups seeking a unique perspective of the picturesque Loire region.

Frequently Asked Questions

For those interested in the hot air balloon ride over the Loire Valley, several common questions often arise.

• What’s the meeting point, and what’re the typical operating hours? The meeting point is at La Gourmandiere in Francueil, with rides operating daily from April to October, in the morning and evening, depending on weather conditions.

• Are there any restrictions or requirements? Children under 6, pregnant women, those with heart problems, and wheelchair users aren’t allowed. High heels, pets, smoking, and large bags are prohibited.

• How does the booking and cancellation process work? Reservations can be made without upfront payment, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Capacity of the Hot Air Balloon?

The capacity of the hot air balloon is not specified in the knowledge provided. However, it notes the activity is not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, those with heart problems, or wheelchair users, suggesting the balloon can accommodate a limited number of passengers.

Is It Possible to Bring Personal Food and Drinks Onboard?

No, personal food and drinks are not allowed on the hot air balloon ride. The activity includes drinks at the landing site as part of the traditional toast celebration.

Can the Balloon Accommodate Guests With Special Dietary Needs?

The balloon can accommodate guests with special dietary needs. They should inform the operator in advance so appropriate provisions can be made. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

What Is the Policy for Rescheduling a Canceled Ride Due to Weather?

If a balloon ride is canceled due to weather, customers can reschedule for a different day or request a full refund up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure. The company offers free cancellation and flexible rescheduling options.

Is It Possible to Add a Private Photo/Video Package to the Experience?

Yes, customers can add a private photo/video package to their hot air balloon experience. The package includes aerial photos and a video of the flight, which can be purchased for an additional fee when booking the ride.

The Sum Up

The Loire Valley hot air balloon ride from Chenonceau offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the region’s stunning beauty from above. With round-trip transfers, a celebratory toast, and approximately one hour of flight time, this excursion promises breathtaking views of picturesque valleys, majestic castles, and lush vineyards. Whether you’re a couple, family, or solo traveler, this adventure is a must-do for anyone seeking an awe-inspiring and memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: