The magic of hot-air ballooning with Art Montgolfières The art of hot-air ballooning: an extraordinary adventure

Experience the indescribable sensation of soaring amongst the clouds whilst watching the sunrise or sunset. A maiden flight in a hot-air balloon is guaranteed to leave you with an unforgettable memory!

The unique experience of a hot-air balloon ride

On board the gondola, let yourself be carried along by the gentle breeze. A sensation of floating takes hold of you as the ground drifts peacefully away. As you climb higher, silencebecomes your travelling companion, interrupted at regular intervals by the hum of the burners.

The panorama gradually unfolds before your wide-eyed gaze. The first rays of the sun paint the sky in shades of pink and gold, transforming your ascent into a magical moment. The landscapes of Touraine are then draped in their finest splendour, amidst the morning mist and the first light of day. In this bubble suspended between sky and earth, time seems to stand still.

The flight experience: from preparation to take-off

Meet at the take-off site at the first light of dawn. Your pilot will welcome you with a cup of coffee and share the secrets of the flight ahead. Preparing the hot-air balloon is a fascinating spectacle: the majestic unfurling of the envelope, the powerful blast from the fan, the dance of the burner’s flames.

In the cool of the morning, you’re welcome to help inflate the balloon if you’d like. The 15 minutes required for this well-orchestrated routine give you a gentle chance to familiarise yourself with your basket. Once the hot air has been pumped in, the fabric rises proudly towards the sky, ready for adventure!

Back on solid ground

The return journey is made in 4×4 vehicles back to the departure point, giving you the chance to share your experiences with the other passengers. The ground crew will be waiting for you to help fold the envelope – a convivial activity that extends the adventure.

Depending on the weather and thermal winds, your pilot – who holds an instructor’s licence and an air operator’s certificate – adapts each flight to ensure optimal flying conditions.

ART MONTGOLFIÈRES

Come and share an incredible experience discovering the earth from the sky! Enjoy this breathtaking moment of freedom, with your head in the clouds, aboardArt Montgolfières’ hot-air balloons.

Must-see sights to fly over in a hot-air balloon

Château Royal d'Amboise

The balloonists’ toast: tradition and camaraderie

This custom dates back to the Montgolfier brothers’ first flights in the 18th century. At the time, local farmers took a dim view of these strange machines landing in their fields. The balloonists therefore took to offering a bottle of wine as a gesture of goodwill.

Today, this special moment marks the culmination of your celestial journey. The sparkling bubbles of Touraine wine mingle with the passengers’ enthusiastic tales, whilst your pilot shares his finest flying anecdotes. A moment suspended in time, where smiles and knowing glances bear witness to the shared adventure.

In the cool of dawn or the gentle glow of dusk, this authentic ritual seals an extraordinary experience, etched forever in your memories, and marks the occasion for you to receive your flight certificate.