Hot Air Balloon Ride!

I have wanted to do a hot air balloon ride for quite some time, but J and I never found the right location before moving to Europe. In February, there was a BuyClub offer for a hot air balloon ride over the Swiss countryside and Alps that I bought.

We originally had planned to go in April but the weather was bad that day so we postponed until October (given all of our travels May-September). We were supposed to go earlier this week, but there was too much wind and rain so again delayed to Saturday afternoon. The good news, the weather on Saturday afternoon was perfect!

We met the group in Rolle, about 30 minutes from Geneva. There were two balloons for the first time by this group - a large one and a small one. We got assigned to the balloon anglaise (english-speaking balloon), which meant we got to go in the smaller one with just two other people and the pilot - I loved it!







The experience was amazing and one I highly recommend! We helped prepare the balloon and I loved watching the balloon fill up and be ready for take off.

Once we took off, the views were amazing - we could see the entire lake, the Alps, and the countryside. At one point, we descended just above the vineyards and then re-ascended. Both J and I were amazed at how well the pilot could control the balloon.

We flew over a few small towns and many farms and then finally landed in a field. Landing was quite fun - we rocked back and forth a few times and then stopped.

There was a celebratory champagne toast with fresh baguette, fresh cheese, and meats at the end - it was a great way to end the experience before they drove us back to our car.

All in all, I loved the hot air balloon ride!