Hot Air Ballooning - Melbourne Yarra Valley

One of the great joys of hot air ballooning is its tranquillity as you float with the breeze feeling absolutely no sensation of movement. You have become the wind...drifting across the morning skies as the first rays of golden yellow bright orange and rose pink light reflect off the clouds. The Yarra Valley is one of Victoria's most prestigious winery regions. Mansfield is in the high country near the spectacular Mt Buller there locations are the perfect hot air ballooning destinations. Let the breeze usher you along the corridors of grape vines and over the Yarra River or take in the breathtaking views of mountains - both are remarkable backdrops. The air is usually much cooler and more stable during the first few hours of the morning hence the reason for the early start. As the sun rises it warms up the ground which can only absorb so much heat before it starts to radiate the extra heat back. This is one of the causes of wind currents and turbulence. We need to fly our balloons while the air remains stable and not affected by the day's wind. This is our ‘weather window’ and it is also dependant on the time of year. Launch sites are dotted around the valley so that no matter where the wind is coming from you are guaranteed a lovely flight. Whilst having an awakening cup of tea or coffee your pilot will deliver a short briefing explaining the adventure on which you are about to embark upon. You will then be transported to the launch site where you may help prepare the balloon for flight or stand back and capture the beauty of the grand envelope unfolding on film. The actual launch of the hot air balloon usually takes no more than half an hour after arrival at the launch site. The basket is laid on its side and the brightly coloured fabric is pulled out of it’s bag. Flying wires from the ‘envelope’ are attached and the whole system is given a ‘walk around’ inspection by the pilot. Initially a l