An hour of silence above the castles, low enough to still make out the pattern of the gardens.
An hour above the castles, at the speed of the wind and with no sound but the burner. The flight is low, often a few hundred metres: you can make out the pattern of the gardens, the slate roofs and the sandbanks in the river — everything a helicopter takes from you. Take-off is at daybreak or late afternoon, the two windows when the air carries. You land in a field, wherever the drift takes you, and a vehicle comes to collect you.
Frequently asked questions
Is the flight guaranteed to go ahead?
No, and that is specific to ballooning: a balloon only lifts off in light wind and stable air. The decision rests with the pilot, usually the evening before or on the morning itself. The flight is then postponed to another date, never flown in poor conditions.
Where do you land?
Wherever the wind takes you: in a field, with the farmer's agreement, a few kilometres from the take-off point. A vehicle follows the balloon on the ground throughout and brings you back.
Is the price per person?
Yes, as for a shared panoramic flight. The basket is occupied by several passengers; taking it privately is arranged on request.
What time is take-off?
At daybreak or late afternoon. Those are the two moments when the air is calm enough to fly; the exact time is confirmed by the operator the day before.