Seeing Germany As The Birds Do, Only Better!

The German countryside is undeniably beautiful. Sadly, as you drive and train through it you miss out on the charms. However, you can give yourself a treat of a lifetime by taking a hot air balloon ride over the countryside.

Hot air balloons may seem archaic, now that there are jets and high-speed trains. Yet a short ride can really be a relaxing and memorable experience. You are much closer to the scenery and get to have a very one on one interactive with the environment as you fly.

There are several places in Germany where you can book a ride in a hot air balloon.

Worried that it’s not safe?

Don’t be — The German firm Ballonbau Wörner GmbH has been making passenger weight balloons in Augsburg since 1897 and their reputation for quality is excellent.

To maximize your experience, you may want to book a ride in conjunction with one of the major hot air balloon festivals. There are two in Germany. One is held in the East and one in the West.

The East Festival is held in Leipzig in Saxony at the end of July each year. The Saxonia International Balloon Fiesta attracts more than 100,000 people for three kinds of balloon races and rides.

The West Festival is held in Warstein in the fall. The Montgolfiade International attracts more than 300 balloonists who put on day and night performances. It also has a special shapes division and is more geared toward novelties than speed shows.

For year-round ballooning, you can also try the Gersthofen center near Augsburg. There are services in Berlin, Rothenburg and other locations in Bavaria, but it can be seasonal. You’ll want to book ahead for the best weather.

The price of a ride is set out on a per hour basis. Most companies charge between 170 – 200 euros per hour. However, balloon baskets can take up to 10 people, so check before you dismiss it as too expensive for you or your family.

Seeing Germany by air is a rare pleasure, and you won’t want to miss your chance for photographs and memories!