fr 
de 
After the balloon flight: a moment of sharing and conviviality
The silence of the sky, the wind that carries you along and the magic of a sunrise seen from the gondola… Flight in a hot-air balloon is an unforgettable experience. But what many people don’t know is that the magic doesn’t end with the landing. Once back on terra firma, another adventure begins: one of sharing, tradition and conviviality, in the heart of Switzerland.
Balloon folding: a team moment
After touching down gently (or sometimes in a controlled glide), the crew and passengers gather around the balloon. We don’t leave just yet. First you have to take care of the canvas giant that carried you up into the air. It’s a very participatory moment, where everyone can get their hands dirty.
First, the envelope is completely opened to let out the hot air, then carefully folded up as a team. Some roll it up, others help slide it into its transport bag. The atmosphere is cheerful and relaxed, often punctuated by laughter and the sharing of experiences from the Flight. It’s a bit like taking down a tent after a campout, but in XXL.
The traditional toast of the balloonist
Once the balloon has been put away, it’s time for a tradition dear to balloonists: the toast! In the cool of the morning, tables are set up on a patch of grass or near the recovery vehicle. Here you’ll find an assortment of simple but tasty treats: fresh bread, pastries, fruit, and sometimes cheese or cold meats, depending on the time of flight.
And for a toast? Champagne, of course! Served in the open air, with apple juice for those who prefer a non-alcoholic version. It’s not just a glass, it’s a real ritual, celebrating the flight accomplished, the teamwork, the beauty of the moment shared.
The pilots sometimes tell an anecdote or a legend linked to the history of hot-air ballooning, and hand passengers a personalized flight certificate. It’s a symbolic gesture that turns the experience into a lasting memory.
A suspended moment, even after landing
What makes this experience unique is the mix of emotion, simplicity and sharing. A hot-air balloon flight is not just about the beauty of the landscape as seen from the sky. It’s an all-encompassing experience, from inflation to the final toast. A journey to the rhythm of the wind, where you come down to earth with a slightly lighter heart.
To extend the day, many passengers then choose an activity in Switzerland. A walk, a cruise on Lake Geneva, a visit to a castle or a gourmet getaway. If you’re looking for ideas, check out our article dedicated to 5 things to do around Lake Geneva after your hot-air balloon flight, or our selection of 10 outdoor activities to combine with a flight.
And if you haven’t booked yet, you can explore our different hot-air balloon flight packages in French-speaking Switzerland to prepare your own experience.
FAQ – After your hot-air balloon flight
After landing, the team and passengers take part in folding the balloon, then share a convivial moment over a balloon toast. This is an opportunity to discuss the flight, ask questions to the pilot and extend the experience before the return flight.
Yes, in most cases passengers are invited to take part in balloon folding. It’s a simple activity, supervised by the crew, which allows passengers to discover what goes on behind the scenes, and to enjoy a moment of teamwork after the flight.
A toast or snack is usually organized after the flight. Depending on the schedule, this can be a rustic breakfast or an aperitif with champagne and soft drinks. This convivial moment is an integral part of the experience.
In addition to the approximately one-hour Flight, you’ll need to allow time for landing, balloon packing, toasting and the return trip. Generally speaking, the whole experience lasts several hours. Precise details are provided at the time of booking and on our practical info page.
After a Flight, many passengers choose to continue their day with a visit, a walk or an outdoor activity in Switzerland. For ideas, see our articles on things to do around Lake Geneva after a Flight or outdoor activities to combine with a hot-air balloon.