The hot-air balloon Flight is over, but the emotion remains

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Our hot-air balloon adventure over Switzerland

I often think back to that morning, the moment we reached the take-off site. The air was fresh, soft and full of promise. I’d given this hot-air balloon Flight to my husband for his birthday, but I knew it would be a gift for me too. From the very first minutes of the ascent, I understood that this moment would be much more than a simple gift. It would be a unique memory, engraved in our memories.

As the balloon rose gently into the sky, I felt the wind caress my face and an incredible lightness wash over me. Switzerland revealed itself from a totally new perspective. The Alps bathed in the first rays of sunlight, the green valleys, the jewel-like lakes and the miniature villages took on an extraordinary dimension. It was a magical moment, when time seemed to stand still.

Every second of this hot-air balloon flight was a discovery. The air was pure, the breath of the burner punctuated our ascent, and the horizon changed with every minute. We’d already seen Switzerland on foot, by car or on skis, but up here, everything seemed different, new, poetic and alive. To find out more about what it’s like to fly, you can also read our article “Discover Switzerland from a new perspective”.

A unique perspective on Swiss nature

What touched me most was the feeling of absolute freedom. Suspended in the basket, I watched my husband share the same wonder. There’s something deeply intimate about floating like this, together, above Switzerland. No noise, no crowds, just the breath of the wind, the warmth of the burner and the light dancing on the peaks and lakes.

To observe the Alps from the sky is to understand their majesty in a way that cannot be experienced from a simple hiking trail. Valleys seem to stretch endlessly, forests unfurl like green carpets, and lakes draw sparkling mosaics in the morning light. The perspective offered by the balloon even transforms places you thought you knew into real fairytale landscapes.

Beyond the visual beauty, it’s the emotion of floating, feeling the wind, breathing the fresh air at this height that makes the experience unforgettable. This blend of calm, contemplation and exhilaration creates a memory that you can recall weeks later. A hot-air balloon flight is unforgettable.

A gift that becomes a lifelong memory

Giving this Flight to my husband was an intimate gesture, discreet but deeply meaningful. It wasn’t a material gift, not an object to be placed on a shelf. It was a moment to be experienced together, a memory we could recount and relive at every opportunity. Every time we look at the photos, we feel as if we’ve stepped back into the pod.

From the very first moments, we laughed, shared sighs of wonder and glances of complicity. The balloon basket becomes a cocoon, a suspended place where you feel both small in the face of the immensity of Switzerland and intensely alive. Every image, every sensation, every breath is etched in the memory. And even after landing, the memory remains vivid.

This Flight reminded me how a unique experience can transform a simple moment into a lifelong memory. For those looking for a truly memorable gift idea, a hot-air balloon flight is a different way of saying “I care about you”.

Rediscover Switzerland differently

Even though we’ve traveled a lot and explored thousands of trails, this hot-air balloon Flight allowed us to discover Switzerland in a different way. With every degree of ascent, the landscape changes, the horizon widens, and every mountain, valley and lake becomes a living part of the experience. We see the country like a large relief map, but charged with emotion.

Floating over the Alps means reconnecting with nature, but also with yourself, your partner and the essential. We understand that some memories can’t be bought, they have to be lived, shared and cherished. Every downward glance is an invitation to contemplate, breathe and appreciate the beauty of the world.

Flight in a hot-air balloon is a gentle way to remember that life is made up of suspended moments. The balloon becomes an excuse to pause, look up and simply feel. For a better understanding of how a balloon flight works from A to Z, you can also read our article on how to prepare for a hot-air balloon flight.

What if it was your turn to fly?

The Flight is over, but the emotion remains. We share our photos and memories, and invite others to take to the skies too. Discovering Switzerland from the sky means seeing a familiar country from a totally new angle. Every Flight tells a different story, and every passenger leaves with a different memory.

If you’ve already explored the mountains, lakes and valleys, there’s always a new way to discover this country. From the sky, carried by a balloon, suspended between heaven and earth. The gift or experience of a balloon flight transforms a simple weekend into an unforgettable memory, an experience that resonates long after you’ve landed.

If you’d like to imagine your own adventure, take a look at our hot-air balloon flight packages in Switzerland. Maybe the next flight story will be yours!

Be inspired and imagine your own ascent above Switzerland🎈✨

Night flight in a hot-air balloon

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Night flight in a hot-air balloon: experience the sunrise from the basket

Take off in the middle of the night, float over the sleepy French-speaking part of Switzerland, then watch daybreak from the basket. A night flight in a hot-air balloon is nothing like a simple first flight. It’s a rare and intense experience, designed for those who want to experience the sunrise as it’s seen only once in a lifetime.

This article explains how a night balloon flight works, what to expect and how to prepare before booking your night flight with Ballons du Léman.

What is a Night flight in a hot-air balloon?

A night flight in a hot-air balloon begins in the dark, well before dawn. You arrive at the take-off site while the sky is still black and the surrounding villages are lit only by street lamps. The team prepares the balloon under the spotlight, while you watch the envelope inflate in a calm, almost unreal atmosphere.

Once the basket is ready, the pilot invites you aboard. A few burner flames later, the balloon gently leaves the ground. Here you are, in the middle of a night flight in a hot-air balloon, carried by the winds, with the whole of French-speaking Switzerland still asleep beneath your feet.

A starry sky… then the spectacle of sunrise

The first few minutes are spent in almost total silence. The night sky surrounds you, the stars are still visible and the lakes can be seen in the moonlight. Villages appear as islands of light, roads as golden threads. In this soothing darkness, landmarks gradually disappear. We’re no longer sure where the sky begins and the earth ends; we’re content to enjoy the moment.

Then, slowly, the show begins. A timid glimmer appears on the horizon. Shades of black and blue give way to purples, pinks and oranges. In just a few minutes, the sunrise completely transforms the landscape. Peaks, valleys and lakes are revealed. The light warms the basket and brightens the faces. Seen from a night flight in a hot-air balloon, this sunrise is anything but ordinary. It’s a powerful moment, often described as one of the most beautiful of the Flight.

Once the sun has risen above the line of the mountains, the balloon continues its journey for a while longer before beginning its descent to a landing site chosen by the pilot. The magic of the Night flight comes to an end, but the images linger long in the memory.

What can you expect on the morning of your flight?

An early wake-up call: meeting times depend on the season, but a night flight in a hot-air balloon means getting up early. Expect to arrive several hours before sunrise.
Cool temperatures: even in summer, it can get cold before dawn, especially at higher altitudes. Bring layers of clothing and a warm jacket.
A longer experience than flying alone: between briefing, inflation, flight, landing and return, count on several hours on site.
Exceptional light for photos: the transition from night to dawn to sunrise offers ideal conditions for images, provided you secure your camera or smartphone.

For more practical details (duration, conditions, minimum age, weather), see our Practical info page and our Frequently asked questions about hot-air balloon flights.

How to prepare for a night flight in a hot-air balloon?

A night flight in a hot-air balloon requires a little more anticipation than a traditional flight. Good preparation makes the experience much more comfortable and enjoyable.

Appropriate clothing: dress as you would for a morning hike in French-speaking Switzerland: closed shoes, comfortable pants, several layers and a warm jacket. Avoid sandals, heels and light clothing.
Managing fatigue: try to go to bed early the night before. It can be a rude awakening, but the experience is well worth it once the balloon takes off.
Useful accessories: hat or headband depending on the season, thin gloves, goggles, external battery for your phone, and possibly a small snack.
Weather and flexibility: as with any hot-air balloon flight, weather remains the key factor. A postponement is sometimes necessary to guarantee safety and comfort.

Who is the Night flight for?

Night flights in a hot-air balloon are for those who want a more intense experience than a traditional flight. It is particularly suitable for :

For couples looking for a truly unique moment to share.
For photography and light enthusiasts.
For those who have already flown during the day and would like to discover another facet of hot-air ballooning.

As with all our flights, certain health or mobility conditions may require prior consultation. In case of doubt, our team is available to guide you towards the most suitable package.

Book your Night flight in a hot-air balloon in Switzerland

A night flight in a hot-air balloon is a rare experience, depending on weather conditions and the time of year. We recommend that you reserve your place in advance and remain flexible on dates to take advantage of the best possible conditions.

Find all the information, availability and prices on the page dedicated to our Night flight in a hot-air balloon. Here you can book your flight or give the experience as a gift voucher.

Discover the night flight 🎈✨

FAQ – Night flight in a hot-air balloon

What is a Night flight in a hot-air balloon?

A night flight in a hot-air balloon begins before dawn, in the dark, and continues until sunrise. You take off while Switzerland is still asleep, enjoy the starlit sky, the illuminated villages and finish the experience by admiring the sunrise from the basket.

How long does a Night flight last?

The flight portion usually lasts about an hour and a half, slightly longer than a standard flight. Counting briefing, inflation, landing and return, however, you should allow several hours on site to fully enjoy the experience.

How cold is it on a night flight in a hot-air balloon?

Temperatures can be cool before sunrise, depending on the season. We recommend that you dress as you would for a morning hike. Closed shoes, several layers of clothing, warm jacket and possibly a hat and gloves.

Is a night flight in a hot-air balloon suitable for everyone?

A Night flight in a hot-air balloon is suitable for adults and teenagers in good physical condition, able to stand upright for the duration of the flight. If in doubt, or if you have any special requirements, please contact us before booking to check whether this option is right for you.

How to book a Night flight in a hot-air balloon in Switzerland?

You can book directly online on our Night flight page. In the event of bad weather, the Flight can be postponed to another date to guarantee your safety and comfort.

High altitude balloon Flight in Switzerland

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High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon: an extreme experience in Switzerland

Have you ever flown in a hot-air balloon and dreamed of going even higher? High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon is a rare experience, designed for those who want to experience something truly out of the ordinary. Here, we’re not just talking about flying over the Swiss countryside: we’re climbing to an altitude of almost 5,000 meters, where the sky changes hue and the world below seems unreal.

What is a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon?

A High altitude flight differs from a classic balloon flight in the altitude targeted, the equipment used and the preparation required. While a Discovery flight generally takes place between 500 and 2,000 meters, a High altitude flight can go up to around 5,000 meters, depending on the conditions of the day.

This type of flight is supervised by an experienced team, with a specialized pilot and a crew member on board. The equipment is specially adapted: balloon designed for high altitude, oxygen available, careful monitoring of weather conditions and safety at every stage.

Who is this type of Flight for?

This High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon is aimed at a special audience:

Aeronautics or mountain enthusiasts looking for an extreme but supervised experience.
People who have already completed a classic Flight and want to go “one step higher”.
Lovers of wide open spaces, photography and unique panoramas of the Alps and Switzerland.

Due to the altitude and physical constraints, this Flight is not suitable for everyone. Certain medical conditions may be contraindicated. Before booking, we recommend that you consult our practical information and, if in doubt, ask your doctor for advice.

How does a High altitude flight work?

As with a traditional flight, the adventure begins early, often at dawn, to take advantage of optimal aerological conditions. The process is divided into several phases:

Preparation and safety briefing
Meeting with the team, presentation of the flight, reminder of instructions, check of equipment and on-board oxygen system.
Inflation and take-off
The balloon is inflated, then gradually straightens out before a smooth take-off. The first few minutes feel like a normal flight… until the ascent continues well above normal altitudes.
Ascent to high altitude
As the climb progresses, the view widens, the terrain simplifies and the clouds become a carpet beneath the gondola. Above a certain altitude, oxygen is made available and used according to the crew’s instructions.
Cruising phase
This is the heart of the experience: a suspended moment when you fly over Switzerland at an altitude of several thousand meters, in almost total silence, punctuated only by the breath of the burners.
Descent and landing
The pilot then begins a gradual descent back to more conventional altitudes, before choosing a suitable landing zone. The ground team follows the balloon and joins the gondola on arrival.

Safety, weather and physical conditions

A High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon requires rigorous preparation. Flights are only made when the weather conditions are right, with a significant safety margin. The date often has to be adapted or postponed to guarantee the best possible conditions.

Passengers should be in good general condition. You need to be able to stand upright for the duration of the flight, be able to withstand the cold at altitude, and follow the oxygen instructions. Certain pathologies (cardiac, respiratory, etc.) may require prior medical advice. For more details on Flight accessibility, please consult our FAQ and practical information.

How to book a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon?

This experience is offered in very limited numbers each year, and is subject to specific organization. To find out more about the conditions, prices, possible periods and booking procedures, go directly to the dedicated page: High altitude flight – Ballons du Léman.

Our team is at your disposal to check with you whether this type of flight corresponds to your profile and expectations, and to suggest, if necessary, a more suitable alternative among our other hot-air balloon flights in French-speaking Switzerland.

Ready to book your High altitude balloon flight? 🎈✨

How to book a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon?

What is a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon?

A High altitude flight is a special kind of ballooning flight that aims to reach much higher altitudes than a conventional flight, up to almost 5,000 meters depending on conditions. It requires specially adapted equipment, an experienced crew and specific supervision.

How high do you climb on a High altitude flight?

The target altitude is generally between 5,000 and 6,000 metres, subject to the day’s weather and safety conditions. The final decision always rests with the pilot, who adapts the flight to the actual situation.

Do you need to be in good physical condition for this type of Flight?

Yes, a good general condition is recommended. You need to be able to stand up, stand the cold and use oxygen if necessary. If you have any doubts or health problems, please seek medical advice before booking.

When are high altitude balloon flights scheduled?

These flights are organized for limited periods, when weather and aerological conditions are favorable. Dates are planned on a case-by-case basis, with a large safety margin, and can be adjusted if weather conditions do not permit.

How to book a High altitude flight in a hot-air balloon in Switzerland?

Reservations can be made directly via the High altitude flight page on our website. Our team will then contact you to check your profile, explain the steps involved and confirm the practical details of the flight.

Aperitif afterwork hot-air balloon flight in Switzerland

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Montage de 4 photos d'un vol en montgolfière de groupe afterwork avec présentation des

Flight apéro: the most aerial afterwork ever

What if your next aperitif literally took to the skies? Our hot-air balloon aperitif flight offers you a moment suspended between heaven and earth, above the Swiss countryside. The program includes a sunset flight, panoramic views of the lakes and Alps, and a convivial aperitif to share in the basket.

It’s the ideal experience to mark a special occasion, surprise your loved ones or enjoy an unforgettable afterwork. Find out more about our hot-air balloon aperitif Flight.

An unusual aperitif, between sky and mountains

The Flight begins at the end of the day, when the light is softer and the landscape begins to take shape on the horizon. The balloon rises gently, letting you gradually discover the Swiss landscape. Lakes, vineyards, forests and peaks take on golden hues.

In the gondola, the atmosphere is relaxed. You enjoy a moment of absolute calm, far from the noise and rhythm of everyday life. The burner gives rhythm to the Flight, conversations become more intimate, gazes turn to the horizon. It’s an aperitif like no other.

What does a hot-air balloon aperitif flight include?

A hot-air balloon aperitif flight is much more than just a drink at altitude. It’s a complete experience, beginning long before takeoff and ending with a moment of sharing after landing.

Take part in the balloon inflation, get a behind-the-scenes look at the flight and chat with the team.
About an hour’s flight, depending on wind conditions.
A convivial aperitif, with a selection of local products and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
The traditional toast of the balloonist after landing, in the spirit of the great families of aerostation.

For full details of the service, prices and future availability, please consult the dedicated page: Aperitif and Afterwork flight in a hot-air balloon.

Why choose an aperitif flight?

This format is particularly suitable if you want to enjoy a moment that’s both festive and contemplative. Among the most frequent occasions:

Afterwork with colleagues to thank a team or celebrate a successful project.
A romantic moment for a couple’s anniversary, a marriage proposal or a surprise for two.
An outing with friends to mark a birthday, an EVJF or an EVG.
Thank your customer or partner with an experience that’s truly different from a classic aperitif.

For corporate events or larger groups, we can advise you on the most suitable formula, and point you in the direction of other types of hot-air balloon flights if required.

Practical information to make the most of your aperitif flight

As with all hot-air balloon flights, the activity depends on the weather conditions. The aperitif Flight generally takes place at the end of the day, at times that vary according to the season, to take advantage of the most beautiful light.

Wear comfortable, warm clothing similar to that used for outdoor activities.
Closed-toe shoes recommended for access to take-off and landing areas.
Activity subject to weather conditions. In the event of unfavorable conditions, the flight will be postponed to guarantee safety and comfort.
See our Practical info and Frequently asked questions pages to help you prepare for your experience.

Our different flight regions in the French-speaking part of Switzerland enable us to adapt our take-off sites to the conditions and offer you the most beautiful panoramas possible.

Discover our afterwork aperitif flight in a hot-air balloon 🎈✨

FAQ : Aperitif and Afterwork flight in a hot-air balloon

What is a hot-air balloon aperitif flight?

A hot-air balloon apéro flight is a late-night flight that combines the experience of ballooning with a convivial aperitif. You’ll enjoy about an hour of flight time, depending on conditions, followed by a moment of sharing with drinks and local produce, in the spirit of traditional ballooning.

How long does an aperitif hot-air balloon flight last?

In general, you should allow around an hour for the Flight, plus preparation time, inflation, the return trip and the aperitif. All in all, you should allow several hours on site. Exact times are confirmed at the time of booking and before the flight.

Can the Flight apéro be privatized?

Yes, depending on the season and availability, we can organize a private hot-air balloon aperitif flight for a couple, a group of friends or a company. Contact us directly if you have a specific project or event to organize, so that we can suggest the most suitable formula.

Is the Flight apéro suitable for children?

The Flight apéro remains a classic hot-air balloon flight, and is therefore accessible to children as soon as they are comfortable with the height and end-of-day schedule. Alcoholic beverages are of course reserved for adults. For any questions relating to age or special conditions, please refer to our practical information or contact our team.

How to book an aperitif hot-air balloon flight?

You can book your flight directly online via our dedicated Tailor-made flight page, or by contacting us for a customized project. You choose the formula, the desired flight area and the date, then we confirm the take-off according to the weather conditions.

Hot-air balloon Flight, an original gift idea

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Find a truly original gift idea

It’s not easy to come up with a gift idea that’s original, that’s a change from classic objects and that really pleases. You want to make a lasting impression, surprise someone and offer them something they’ll remember for a long time. A hot-air balloon flight ticks all these boxes. It’s a powerful, rare and deeply memorable experience.

Why a hot-air balloon flight stands out from the crowd

Unlike an object that ends up in a drawer, this gift is lived intensely and told for years to come. The gift of a hot-air balloon flight is much more than a simple activity. It’s a magical aerial adventure, where time seems to stand still, and landscapes are revealed from a new perspective, far removed from the one we know from the ground. It’s a gift that’s out of the ordinary, and one that will remain engraved in people’s memories far longer than a material object. Where a material gift goes out of fashion or is forgotten, a hot-air balloon Flight remains associated with a special moment, landscapes and very specific emotions.

Ballons du Léman: A company committed to a quality experience

By choosing a company specializing in hot-air balloon flights in French-speaking Switzerland, you are opting for :

Recognized expertise and know-how, with experienced and passionate pilots.
A wide choice of take-off sites in French-speaking Switzerland, offering a variety of breathtaking panoramas: majestic mountains, vast plains or sparkling lakeshores.
Different formulas to suit every taste: discovery flights, prestige flights or even private flights to celebrate a unique event.
Optimal safety, with equipment that is regularly checked and professional crews who care about passengers’ well-being.
With a wide choice of flight varieties, a diverse range of flights and year-round flights, you’re sure to offer a gift that will appeal to the lucky recipient!

Our complete guide to a hot-air balloon Flight 🎈✨

A flexible, practical gift for the recipient

An original gift doesn’t have to be complicated to use. Ballons du Léman hot-air balloon Flight tickets are designed to fit real life.

Because a gift should above all be a pleasure, hot-air balloon tickets are often non-nominative, flexible, transferable and extendable. This means that whoever receives this gift will be able to :

Offer your ticket to a loved one, if he or she so wishes.
Choose the date that suits you best for this unforgettable experience.
Change the type of flight, for the experience you want.
Extend the validity of your ticket in case of unforeseen circumstances.

No pressure, just the pleasure of offering an adventure to suit everyone!

This flexibility further enhances the appeal of a hot-air balloon Flight as an original gift idea, especially when compared with more rigid or quickly forgotten objects.

How to offer a hot-air balloon flight?

It couldn’t be simpler! Simply choose the offer that suits your budget and the recipient’s wishes. The Flight ticket can be sent by e-mail or as a printed version in an attractive gift pouch.

To choose the package that best suits your budget and the person you want to spoil, discover all our hot-air balloon flight offers in French-speaking Switzerland.

When this gift really hits the spot

Birthday
Wedding or wedding anniversary
Mother’s or Father’s Day
Retirement
Valentine’s Day
Noël
Couple’s surprise
A simple desire to please

Time and time again, a hot-air balloon Flight stands out as an original gift idea that shows you’ve really thought about what would please.

FAQ: Offer a hot-air balloon flight as an original gift

What makes a hot-air balloon Flight more original than a material gift?

A hot-air balloon flight is a rare, immersive and emotionally rich experience. Where an object eventually wears out or is forgotten, a Flight leaves a lasting memory, with a precise context: the place, the light, the sensations, the photos. It’s a gift to be remembered and recounted for a long time to come.

Is this type of gift suitable for everyone?

It’s suitable for most people who like to discover new landscapes and enjoy unique experiences. There are, however, some special situations in which precautions need to be taken, such as for pregnant women or certain medical conditions. If in doubt, please contact us before purchasing. With our Flight tickets, you let the person choose the most suitable time.

How can you be sure not to make a mistake with this gift?

You can choose a Flight ticket that lets you choose the date and sometimes the type of flight. By adding a personalized note explaining why you chose this experience, you show the person that this gift has been thought of for them, making it even more original and thoughtful.

So, are you ready to offer a suspended moment in the air? 🎈✨

How does a hot-air balloon work?

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How a hot-air balloon works: a journey to the heart of the skies

Hot-air balloons fascinate young and old with their majestic ascent and smooth flight. But how exactly does a hot-air balloon work? Marie (8) and Grégoire (9) put the question to Gaël, hot-air balloon pilot and founder of Ballons du Léman. Discover, in simple words, the principle of flight, the different parts of a hot-air balloon and how a flight in Switzerland works.

How does a hot-air balloon work? The principle of hot air

Marie: What makes a hot-air balloon fly?

Gaël: A hot-air balloon works on a simple principle.Hot air is lighter than cold air. By heating the air inside the envelope (the balloon) with propane-fuelled burners, the balloon becomes lighter than the surrounding air and rises into the sky. To ascend, the pilot activates the burners, heating the air inside the balloon. To descend, the pilot simply allows the air to cool naturally, or opens a valve at the top of the envelope. This opening, also known as the “parachute”, allows the hot air to escape and the balloon to lose altitude. It’s this subtle interplay between warm and cooler air that enables the pilot to control the balloon’s altitude throughout the flight.

The key elements of a hot-air balloon

Grégoire: What are the important elements of a balloon?

Gaël: A hot-air balloon is made up of several essential elements that work together.

The envelope: This large, strong fabric balloon contains the hot air. It is designed to withstand heat and pressure during Flight.
The nacelle: The wicker basket housing the pilot and passengers. It’s sturdy, cushions landing shocks and offers warm contact with the material.
Burners: These produce a powerful flame to heat the air inside the envelope. The pilot operates them to climb or maintain altitude.
Propane tanks: These supply gas to the burners, and are securely fixed in the nacelle.
The parachute or valve: An opening at the top of the envelope that the pilot can operate to let the hot air out and lower the balloon.

All these elements are controlled by a trained and certified pilot. To find out more about our team and our way of flying, you can discover the founding pillars of Ballons du Léman and our team.

The main stages of a hot-air balloon Flight

Marie: What’s a balloon flight like, from start to finish?

Gaël : A hot-air balloon flight is a complete adventure that begins long before you leave the ground.

Preparation and inflation
The team deploys the envelope on the ground and begins by inflating it with a cold-air blower. Once the balloon is partially inflated, the burners take over to heat the air and gradually straighten out the balloon. It’s a spectacular moment that passengers can watch up close.
Take-off
When the air is sufficiently warm, the balloon becomes fully erect and the basket gently detaches from the ground. The floating sensation is very different from that of a plane. Everything happens slowly and smoothly.
Flight
A hot-air balloon is not steered like a car or a plane. It moves with the wind. The pilot chooses his altitude to take advantage of different wind layers and adjust the trajectory slightly. The result is a unique panorama of lakes, villages and the Alps. To help you prepare for this step, read our article “Getting ready for a hot-air balloon flight”.
Landing
After about an hour in the air, the pilot finds a clear spot. He gradually reduces altitude and gently lands the balloon. The ground crew follows the balloon throughout the flight to help with the landing.
Folding and sharing
Once on the ground, it’s time to fold the envelope and put the equipment away. This is a convivial moment in which passengers can participate. The experience often ends with a toast or snack. We talk more about this in our article “And after the flight? the little extras that make all the difference”.

Can anyone fly in a hot-air balloon?

Grégoire: Would you recommend a balloon flight to everyone?

Gaël : Yes, as long as the safety conditions are respected, it’s an experience you should have at least once in your life. A hot-air balloon Flight is generally accessible to a wide public. You simply need to be able to stand upright for the duration of the flight and climb into the basket. If you have any questions about health, age or special requirements, please consult our Practical info page and our Frequently asked questions section.

At Ballons du Léman, we are committed to making the experience as inclusive as possible. That’s why we’ve developed gondolas and Flights adapted to welcome everyone, including people with reduced mobility. If you’re in any doubt, just get in touch with our team. We’ll be happy to advise you on the most suitable formula.

A hot-air balloon flight is a timeless, magical way to discover the French-speaking part of Switzerland from the sky, between lakes and mountains, in complete serenity.

Ready to take off ? 🎈✨

FAQ : How does a hot-air balloon work?

How does a hot-air balloon get up into the sky?

A hot-air balloon rises thanks to the principle of hot air. Air heated by burners becomes lighter than the surrounding air. By heating the air inside the envelope, the balloon becomes lighter than the surrounding air and rises. To descend, the pilot allows the air to cool, or opens a valve to evacuate some of the hot air.

Can a hot-air balloon be steered like an airplane?

No, a hot-air balloon is not steered like a plane or a car. It moves with the wind. The pilot can, however, adjust the altitude to take advantage of different wind layers and slightly influence the trajectory. The choice of take-off zone is also very important to anticipate the general direction of the flight.

How long does a hot-air balloon flight last?

The average duration of a hot-air balloon Flight is about one hour in the air. Including preparation, inflation, landing, balloon folding and socializing, you should allow between three and four hours for the whole experience. Practical details are specified when booking.

Is hot-air ballooning safe?

Yes, hot-air ballooning is a highly supervised activity. Pilots are trained and certified, equipment is regularly inspected, and flights are organized only in favorable weather conditions. In Switzerland, Ballons du Léman applies strict safety standards to guarantee a comfortable and serene flight for all passengers.