We present you with the most spectacular places in Spain and around the world worth seeing from the air. With just 80 days to circle the globe, we'll suggest some of its most fascinating spots in just a few paragraphs.
If you'd prefer not to travel far, you can find hot air balloon rides near your county here.
1.- Barcelona: The Beauty of a Mediterranean City:
Witnessing historic towns and Mediterranean coastlines are reason enough to mark Barcelona and its surroundings as the perfect destination for a hot air balloon flight. See Las Ramblas, Camp Nou, the Sagrada Família or Torre Agbar from above. Discover nearby towns steeped in history, like Mura or Vic. And experience the fusion of coastal and mountain landscapes while flying over La Garrotxa. Fancy it? Click here.
2.- Mérida: Direct Legacy of the Romans:
See Extremadura's capital from a new perspective - the skies. The Guadiana riverbanks, Lusitania Bridge mirrored in the water, and streets brimming with Roman history unfold beneath you, but the highlight is floating above the Roman Theatre. If this city is impressive on foot, imagine pairing it with a balloon ride. We offer options with breakfast and a souvenir DVD. Perfect for gifting!
3.- Picos de Europa: The Cantabrian Mountains' Spectacular Passage Through Asturias:
An awe-inspiring balloon journey showcasing unrivalled colour contrasts. A bird's-eye view of Naranjo de Bulnes peak blends with Asturias' lush greenery, leading to the Lakes of Covadonga from above, before meeting the Cantabrian Sea's deep blue. This Asturian balloon route offers respite from urban bustle amidst pure green landscapes by the Cantabrian coast.
Explore different options here.
4.- Doñana: Natural Diversity in Huelva:
Drifting through clouds near Doñana is an unforgettable experience. Beyond the balloon's inherent tranquillity lies the beauty of this Natural Park - holm oaks, pines, olive trees, marshes and dunes. A fusion of ecosystems strikingly visible from altitude, especially the pink flamingos creating an extraordinary aerial sight.
5.- Monumental Segovia:
You've likely visited its Aqueduct, Alcázar and Cathedral... from ground level. Imagine feeling you could touch their highest points! A Segovian balloon ride delivers fairytale views, revealing the Aqueduct's full trajectory with clarity impossible from below. A unique way to complete your Segovia tour.
Find more information here.
6.- Edinburgh: A Fairytale from Above:
Highly recommended is ballooning over this Scottish city. Don't miss the panorama of Edinburgh Castle behind the drawbridge, Holyrood Palace and medieval Royal Mile, the modern Scottish Parliament, and Modern Art Gallery gardens. If flying near the Castle around 1pm (except Sundays), you'll hear the One O'Clock Gun reverberate through the walls.
7.- Dubai Desert: A "Red Carpet" Panorama:
Though it may sound unusual - deserts seeming monotonous - a Dubai desert balloon ride will astound you. Before you stretches an endless expanse of reddish sands forming unique dunes - no two alike. With breeze, watch fine dust layers create new dunes. This route crosses desert between Dubai and Hatta near Fossil Rock.
About 40km from Dubai-Hatta highway, amidst red sands, lies incredible Fossil Rock - an 80-million-year-old fossilised monolith. Dawn is prime flight time, though sunsets are spectacular for extending the experience.
8.- San Miguel de Allende: Mexico's Cultural & Historical Heritage:
One of Guanajuato's 50 Wonders awaits. Fly above its Toy Museum and witness the sprawling six-block artisan market. You're not floating over any ordinary place, but a Readers' Choice Award-winning tourism gem.
Founded in 1542, it offers numerous aerial options. See them here.
9.- Tuscany: A Dreamlike Flight in Italy:
Ballooning over one of Europe's most beautiful regions? Tuscany collaborates with the balloon to deliver utter peace. Below: endless green expanses, vineyards, Chianti's hills and valleys (70,000 hectares), and signature Tuscan red rooftops. This Italian balloon ride is highly recommended for couples - the romantic setting and in-flight champagne toast create perfect shared moments. Fancy it?
10.- Massai Mara: An Aerial Safari in Kenya:
The ultimate way to explore this Kenyan Nature Reserve without disturbing its wildlife. West of Rift Valley, Massai Mara's Serengeti-like plains are bisected by the Mara River en route to Lake Victoria. It's essentially a balloon safari - from your basket, witness lions hunting, hippos with calves, riverside crocodiles... An unmissable spectacle, ideal for adventurers seeking unique thrills.
These are just suggestions - countless places can be visited from the air, combining ballooning's magic with unforgettable vistas. Choose yours, and don't forget to share your photos and stories with us!
