Text by Chi Binghui | Compiled & Reported | Source: MOOK Editorial Team
Can’t fly like in Up? No worries—riding a massive hot air balloon is just as thrilling. A must-do in Melbourne is a hot air balloon ride, where you can slowly rise with the airflow and take in the vast city, greenery, and coast, making your flying dreams come true.
Take to the skies in a hot air balloon and soak in the city’s beauty.
Head to the open grasslands near the mouth of the Yarra River in the suburbs, where large hot air balloons are lined up, ready for launch. After the gas burners ignite and fill the envelope with heated air, the basket suddenly lifts off the ground and begins its ascent. As the balloon drifts peacefully, you’ll watch the ground grow smaller and smaller below. The journey takes you over the winding Yarra River, the soul of the city, across the expansive waters of Port Phillip Bay, and even offers a “low-altitude” view—at over a thousand meters—of Melbourne’s grid-like city center. Iconic landmarks such as the Eureka Tower (the world’s tallest residential building), the Victoria Arts Centre, Crown Casino, St Patrick’s Cathedral, and Parliament House all pass swiftly beneath your feet, giving you a rapid yet unforgettable tour of Melbourne.
Soaring above skyscrapers and overlooking the city is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Melbourne has several hot air balloon operators, many of which are well-established businesses with years of experience. Some partner with major hotels to offer ticket packages, and may even provide pick-up and drop-off services, issue hot air balloon flight certificates, and more. The flights are helmed by skilled pilots who offer commentary and service throughout. Balloon rides typically depart just before sunrise when the air and wind are stable, allowing for a smooth and serene view of the awakening city. Prices generally range from AUD 300 to 350 per adult.
A hot air balloon that can accommodate around ten passengers usually flies for about an hour, not including preparation time and transit.
The still-sleeping city renders the normally bustling streets eerily quiet. Riding the wind, the skyscrapers give way to 19th-century Victorian cottages. Parks and woodlands such as the Royal Botanic Gardens, Yarra Park, Queen Victoria Garden, and Fitzroy Garden serve as Melbourne residents’ favorite green retreats. Meanwhile, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the racetrack at Albert Park, and the arenas within Melbourne Park stand as iconic symbols of the city.
Colorful hot air balloons add vibrancy to the urban landscape.
Only a handful of cities in the world are suitable for hot air ballooning, and Melbourne stands out among them. It has repeatedly been named “the world’s most livable city,” boasting not only a harmonious blend of natural scenery and modern architecture but also exceptional environmental advantages. From above, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the entire city, making the hot air balloon experience an unforgettable memory for life.
Global Ballooning:http://www.globalballooning.com.au
Balloon Flights Over Melbourne:http://www.balloonovermelbourne.com.au
Balloon Sunrise:http://www.hotairballooning.com.au