20 Places Where You Can Go on a Romantic Hot-Air Balloon Ride
Seeking a unique perspective? Consider an aerial view. Whether you’re gliding over red rocks or floating through frozen glaciers, there’s something so romantic about a hot-air balloon. Scroll on to book your next high-altitude adventure.
Punta Ala, Italy
The beauty of this fairy-tale corner of Tuscany knows no bounds. Beyond eye-popping sights, a private ride with Baglioni Resort Cala Del Porto revs up the amore with celebratory glasses of Prosecco and a traditional Italian breakfast.
RELATED: The 50 Best Things to Do in Tuscany
Cappadocia, Turkey
The volcanic landscape of Cappadocia beckons with its fairy chimneys, pillars, pinnacles, valleys and cliffs plus man-made wonders. Think: cave churches and pigeon houses. Not surprisingly, it’s the most popular hot-air balloon location in the world.
Alice Springs, Australia
Schedule an a.m. excursion from Alice Springs and watch the sun rise over the Outback while sipping a glass of sparkling wine (add a splash of guava juice for an exotic twist on a mimosa) and savoring muffins, biscuits, cheese and fresh fruit. That’s our kind of brekkie.
Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Witness the wow factor of Maasai Mara National Reserve (where many of the most romantic scenes from Out of Africa were shot) from high above. A pre-dawn ride from Angama Mara will take you past the grassy plains, acacia trees and exotic wildlife. You’ll want to take ample photos—so make sure not to drop your iPhone.
Chateau-D'oex, Switzerland
Château-d’Oex is renowned as the home of the International Balloon Festival. Translation: It’s one of the top spots to take flight. While soaring upwards of 11,482 feet, couples can gawk at 360-degree views of verdant vales, snowcapped peaks and sparkling lakes.
Napa Valley, California
America’s best-known wine region brims with picturesque vineyards, sprawling estates and tasting rooms. Napa Valley Lodge offers one of the most spectacular outings over the storied landscape. It’s sure to be a highlight of your trip!
Snowmass, Colorado
There’s so much to love about Snowmass. And if you think the vistas from the gondolas are amazing, wait until you peep the jaw-dropping panoramas of the Elk Mountain Range from a hot-air balloon. Chocolate-covered strawberries, cheese and crackers are an extra tasty treat.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is all about luxury. So why should your date night, er, day, be any different? Spoil your sweetie with a sunrise ride over the Arabian Desert, complete with a falcon show. Afterward, feast on smoked salmon and caviar before embarking on a safari.
St. Louis, Missouri
Impress your paramour with a sky-high escapade in the Rome of the West. Marvel at the Gateway Arch, Mississippi River, Missouri Botanical Garden and St. Louis Zoo. Have some scheduling flexibility? Time your trip to the Great Forest Park Balloon Race.
Bowling Green, Kentucky
Couples can embark on a private tour of Bowling Green via eHotAir. The exclusive sunset experience pairs gorgeous vistas of rolling hills, green pastures and expansive caves plus plenty of bubbly.
Tarangire National Park, Tanzania
When you envision a safari, you likely picture four wheels. Think again! Gawk at hippos, giraffes and zebras on a once-in-a-lifetime ride across Tarangire National Park. Upon landing, fuel up for the day with a Champagne breakfast in the bush.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi in Santa Fe boasts the only year-round ballooning experience in the state. Journey down the Rio Grande Gorge, alongside a trained guide. You may even catch a glimpse of eagles, deer and bighorn sheep.
Sedona, Arizona
The topography of Red Rock State Park is legendary. Guests at L’Auberge de Sedona can book an "aerial nature walk," aka an early morning adventure 2,000 feet above the iconic sandstone formations and canyons.
La Fortuna, Costa Rica
The best way to take in the majesty of Arenal Volcano National Park with its thermal springs, lava fields and lush rainforests? A one-hour jaunt courtesy of Free Spirit Costa Rica, the only hot-air balloon company in Central America.
Moab, Utah
Moab is among the most stunning desert destinations in the United States. What better way to start the day than a sunrise run over the astonishing red rock peaks, canyons and cliffs?
Black Hills, South Dakota
Couples visiting South Dakota can enjoy 60 minutes of magic soaring above the beautiful Black Hills and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. A Champagne toast and souvenir certificate are included in the price tag.
Scottsdale, Arizona
Whisk your partner away on an epic escape from W Scottsdale. Watch the balloon inflate. Then climb into the basket and begin your ascent over the golden sands and centuries-old cacti of the Sonoran Desert. Keep an eye out for jackrabbits, quail, roadrunners and coyotes.
Yarra Valley, Australia
The Yarra Valley is famed for its vino. A ride over this region puts rolling hills, dales, farms and vineyards on display. Also part of the package? A boozy breakfast at one of the local wineries.
Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Stretching 1,553 feet across northwestern Africa, the Atlas Mountains are a bucket-list getaway like no other. Admire this magical part of Morocco from a totally distinct vantage point. Expect: craggy crests, ravines and Berber villages.
Greenough, Montana
In the summer, the Blackfoot River Valley lures travelers—especially those with a penchant for fly-fishing. Come winter, Glacier National Park is a major draw. Whichever season you choose, a hot-air balloon ride through this idyllic land is something you won’t soon forget.
