Hot air balloon in Annecy: flying over the lake and Alps

A hot air balloon gives the calmest, widest angle on the Annecy area: you rise in silence at dawn, and the lake, the old town and the peaks reveal themselves in a single glance. It’s a gentle experience, no adrenaline, but with a view nothing else matches.

How it works

The flight takes place early in the morning, when the air is most stable. After the balloon is inflated, the lift-off is gradual and the basket drifts with the wind over the countryside, the hills and, conditions permitting, within sight of the lake and the Mont Blanc massif. Allow a full morning: preparation, a flight of about an hour, then the return.

Booking

Here’s our selected flight in the Annecy area from our partner.

Good to know

It all depends on the weather. A balloon only flies in light wind and clear skies. Postponements are common: keep your plans flexible and confirm the day before.

Early morning. Flights usually leave at dawn; in summer, sometimes at the end of the day.

Dress warmly. It’s cool at dawn and at altitude, even in summer.

Who it’s for. Open to all, no particular fitness required; check the minimum age and basket capacity when booking.

See also in Annecy

Stay in the air with a paragliding flight, or head back down to the lake and its beaches. Back to the destination: Annecy.