Imagine waking up early in the morning, just as dawn begins to break, and gently lifting off into the sky in a hot air balloon. For around three hours, you’ll drift silently over the Bellarine Peninsula, taking in sweeping views of vineyards, coastline, and rolling hills, all while catching glimpses of the Melbourne skyline far in the distance. This experience, offered by Go Wild Ballooning & Geelong Ballooning, costs about $280 per person and includes hotel pickup, a flight certificate, and free in-flight photos. It’s an adventure that’s as much about serenity as it is about spectacle.
Two things really stand out about this tour. First, the views are genuinely spectacular — the combination of coastal scenery and cityscape offers a unique perspective that you simply can’t get any other way. Second, the guides and crew are praised for their professionalism and friendliness, making the whole experience smooth and enjoyable. On the downside, weather conditions can affect flights, so if it’s cloudy or windy, your plans might need to shift.
This tour is perfect for those who love photography, enjoy quiet, scenic mornings, or want a memorable way to start their day in Victoria. It suits travelers looking for a peaceful adventure that combines nature, city views, and a dash of thrill. If you’re after a unique aerial perspective of Geelong and beyond, this balloon ride is a great choice.
Key Points
- Stunning panoramic views of the Bellarine Peninsula and Melbourne skyline
- Includes free in-flight photos and a flight certificate for lasting memories
- Gourmet breakfast upgrade available at Novotel Geelong for a relaxing post-flight treat
- Experience weather-dependent conditions, so flexibility is key
- The tour is family-friendly but not suitable for children under 6 or pregnant women
- Pickup and drop-off from Novotel Geelong make logistics easier
A Closer Look at the Geelong Hot Air Balloon Experience
The Itinerary: From Sunrise to Serenity
The adventure begins the night before, with check-in at the Novotel Geelong between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm. This early start aligns with the sunrise flight, designed to give you the best lighting and calmest conditions. The morning begins with a short briefing and preparation, where you’ll learn about safety and what to expect during the flight.
Once in the air, you’ll glide over Geelong, a city often seen as the gateway to the Great Ocean Road but here shines in a different light. You’ll drift over the Bellarine Peninsula, known for its vineyards, beaches, and charming coastal towns. The views are breathtaking — the land stretches out in lush greens, dotted with farms and quaint villages, all framed by the vast Southern Ocean.
As you ascend, your pilot will guide you to take in the magnificent Melbourne city skyline in the distance. The skyline is especially dramatic at sunrise, with the rising sun casting golden hues over the city’s high-rises. If you’re a photographer, you’ll love the opportunity to capture wide-angle shots of the landscape and cityscape, with the sky providing a stunning backdrop.
What Makes the Flight Special?
People praise the knowledgeable guides, like Harry, for their calm professionalism and ability to make the experience informative and fun. One reviewer shared, “Harry and the crew were great. The day was amazing and all 5 of us thoroughly enjoyed it.” This genuine care and expertise help make the flight not just scenic but also safe and comfortable.
The free in-flight photos are a thoughtful touch, allowing you to remember your flight without having to juggle a camera while drifting. The panoramic views are unmatched, with the peaceful silence of the balloon ride providing a meditative experience as you float over vineyards, beaches, and city lights.
Additional Options: Gourmet Breakfast
Want to extend the experience? You can add a gourmet breakfast at Novotel Geelong after your flight. It’s a nice way to reflect on your adventure and enjoy some local flavors, making the morning even more special.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details: What to Know Before You Go
- Duration: About 3 hours, with most flights happening in the early morning hours
- Price: Around $280 per person — a fair cost considering the unique views and included extras like photos and hotel pickup
- Meeting Point: Inside the Novotel Geelong at reception the night before, with check-in between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm
- Weather Dependency: The flight is weather-dependent, so it’s wise to stay flexible; cloudy or windy conditions may cause delays or cancellations
- What to Bring: Hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes suitable for early mornings and potentially cool temperatures
- Not Suitable For: Children under 6, pregnant women, people with mobility issues, heart problems, or a fear of heights
The Experience: What Travelers Say
The feedback on this tour is limited but highly positive. One reviewer gave it a perfect 5-star rating, describing the day as “amazing” and praising the crew’s professionalism. The serene experience, combined with stunning views and friendly guides, makes it a memorable adventure.
How to Make the Most of Your Balloon Ride
To maximize your experience, arrive well-rested and dressed in layers, since mornings can be cool. Be prepared for an early start, but know that the early light and calm conditions make for the best flying weather and photography opportunities. Remember, since the flight is weather-dependent, having flexible plans will help ensure you get to enjoy this bucket-list experience.
You might also consider the optional breakfast, which can turn your morning into a leisurely, gourmet affair, perfect for savoring the scenery and sharing the moment with companions.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for photographers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a peaceful yet exhilarating start to the day. It’s a gentle adventure that rewards patience with spectacular visuals. Conversely, if you’re a family with small children, pregnant, or have mobility issues, this might not be suitable.
Those with a love for cityscapes and coastlines, or wanting a different perspective on Geelong and Melbourne, will find this tour particularly rewarding. It’s also a delightful idea for celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself to a memorable morning.
Summary
In essence, the Geelong Hot Air Balloon Flight offers a rare opportunity to see Victoria from above, combining scenic coastal views, a stunning skyline, and a peaceful, meditative experience. The professionalism of the guides and the quality of the included photos make it a valuable choice for anyone seeking a memorable adventure. The early morning timing and weather dependence are considerations, but the potential payoff — breathtaking views and unforgettable memories — make it well worth the effort.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic experiences with a focus on aesthetic beauty, and who are comfortable with early starts and some weather variability. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or part of a group, this balloon ride is a gentle yet unforgettable highlight of a trip to Victoria.
FAQ
How long does the hot air balloon flight last?
The flight itself lasts about 3 hours, most of it spent drifting peacefully above the landscape.
What is included in the price?
The cost covers the balloon flight, free in-flight photos, a flight certificate, and hotel pickup and drop-off from Novotel Geelong.
Is breakfast included?
No, breakfast is an optional extra at Novotel Geelong, perfect if you want to extend your morning experience.
Where do I meet for the flight?
You meet inside the Novotel Geelong Hotel at reception the night before your flight, during check-in between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm.
What should I bring?
Bring a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for early morning.
Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 6, pregnant women, or those with mobility impairments or heart problems.
What if the weather is bad?
Since the flight is weather dependent, poor weather like strong wind or clouds may cause cancellations or rescheduling. Flexibility is recommended.
How scenic are the views?
Absolutely breathtaking. Expect sweeping vistas of vineyards, beaches, coastal towns, and the Melbourne skyline, especially at sunrise.
Can I take photos during the flight?
Yes, and the guides provide free in-flight photos, so you can focus on enjoying rather than filming.
Whether you’re after a peaceful dawn escape or a photo opportunity of a lifetime, this hot air balloon flight over Geelong is a rewarding way to see Victoria from a new perspective. It’s an experience that combines natural beauty, cityscape views, and the thrill of floating in the sky — all wrapped into a memorable 3-hour adventure.
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