Balloon Aloft
We had an amazing time with Balloon Aloft from arrival until the trip was over. The day starts at 5:15AM when you need to check in. The gate was marked by red flashing lights and people were stationed inside to show you where to park and then direct you to the check in area. To help with the early morning, coffee is available free of charge.
Once everyone is signed in and you are given a coloured sticker for your group, there is a safety briefing and then you are taken to a minibus for the ride to the take off field. This changes daily depending on the winds.
For our trip, take off was from the Cessnock gun club and there were ten balloons from different companies preparing for launch. It was a fantastic sight as all these balloons slowly inflated and took off.
We spent an hour quietly floating over the vineyards of the Hunter Valley. The view is breathtaking and the quiet of the balloon ride adds to the amazing feeling.
Landing and Breakfast
After an hour in the air our pilot chose a field to land in and we made a surprisingly smooth landing. We had thought it would be a bit bumpy but instead it was very gentle.
The ground crew were there to meet us having been in radio contact with the pilot. We all helped pack the balloon away and then went back to Petersons Winery for breakfast. On your arrival you were offered orange juice and champagne.
As part of the package we booked, breakfast was included and we didn’t have to wait long before what we had ordered was delivered. This was a great way to finish the morning and we left with great memories of a fantastic experience.
For other great trips around the Hunter Valley,please click here.
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