Check off your dream list with romance: Your first hot air balloon ride to watch the dawn in Australia

▲Soar into the skies on a romantic hot air balloon ride and take in the breathtaking views of the entire Yarra Valley.

By Chen Hanyin / Reported and photographed from Australia

Whether it’s venturing into the Sahara Desert, chasing the Northern Lights in the snowy Nordic countries, or enjoying a romantic hot air balloon sunrise—these dream destinations are at the top of many travelers’ lists. Among them, riding a hot air balloon is actually one of the easiest bucket-list experiences to check off. Just book a flight to Melbourne, Australia, and let the stunning scenery of Victoria’s Yarra Valley sweep away all your worries.

▲A hot air balloon floating in the pink-hued sky.

The Yarra Valley is a lush green valley located about an hour from downtown Melbourne. Nestled among verdant hills and vast greenery are over 90 wineries, with vineyard landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. Hot air balloons generally come in various sizes, accommodating 2, 4, 8–10, 16, or 24 passengers, with each flight lasting approximately one hour. The peak season for hot air balloon rides runs from November to April each year, so be sure to book in advance if you want to take to the skies.

▲Preparing the hot air balloon.

▲Hot air balloons slowly ascending into the sky.

This romantic hot air balloon adventure depends on the weather, with safety as the top priority. Typically, hot air balloon companies will confirm with passengers half an hour before departure whether it’s safe to fly that day. If conditions aren’t suitable, they’ll reschedule the flight. Before dawn at 5 a.m., the hot air balloon crew is already waiting outside your hotel with a small trailer—the balloon is loaded right on top.

▲The hot air balloon is filled with couples, and some even choose to propose while floating above the valleys.

For first-time hot air balloon riders, the experience is undoubtedly a mix of nerves and excitement. But don’t worry—hot air balloons are surprisingly stable in the air, much less frightening than you might imagine. As the balloon gradually ascends, the scenery below becomes smaller and smaller, with flocks of sheep looking like pure white pearls scattered across a green carpet. The sun slowly peeks over the mountains, casting a golden glow over the land, and you can confidently check off a dreamy item on your travel list.

▲A one-hour flight lets you capture the beauty and keep it forever in your memories.

▲The hot air balloon rises to an altitude of about 3,000 to 4,000 feet.

Yarra Valley Hot Air Balloon Ride in Melbourne, Australia
Price: AUD 365 (approx. TWD 8,541) per adult, AUD 285 (approx. TWD 6,669) for children aged 7–12.

*For more details, please visit the official website:globalballooning