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Flying high above the Chambord estate in the Loire Valley for about $386 per person offers a truly memorable perspective of this iconic region. This 3-hour tour combines a roughly one-hour hot air balloon flight with transportation, a pre-flight briefing, and a breakfast or aperitif afterward. Led by LES BALLONS DE LOIRE, a provider with a 5-star rating, this experience benefits from 35 years of flying expertise and the use of brand-new hot air balloons.
The tour is ideal for those seeking a special adventure in the air, with the chance to enjoy sunrise or sunset views over the estate. Travelers should be aware that children under 7, pregnant women, and individuals with certain health considerations** are not suited for this activity. This is a well-organized and scenic way to see the Château de Chambord from a new angle, with safety and comfort a priority.
Key Points
- Price: $386 per person, including transportation, briefing, flight, and breakfast or aperitif
- Duration: Around 3 hours total, with about 1 hour of flight
- Experience: Flight over the Chambord estate during sunrise or sunset
- Provider: LES BALLONS DE LOIRE with a 5-star rating
- Departure points: Options include Shuttle from Orléans TGV station, at Jouy-le-Potier, or near Château de Chambord with prior message confirmation
- Safety: Guided by experienced pilots with hundreds of hours in the air, using new hot air balloons
Flying Over the Château de Chambord at Sunrise or Sunset
This tour’s main highlight is the hot air balloon flight over Chambord during either sunrise or sunset. The soft light during these times creates an almost magical atmosphere, illuminating the Château de Chambord and surrounding landscape. The flight lasts about an hour, depending on weather and landing options, and offers sweeping views of the estate from the air.
The pre-flight setup involves a short 30-minute van ride to the launch site, Les Ballons de Loire, where the team prepares the balloon with your help and provides a detailed explanation of how everything works. After takeoff, you’ll enjoy a peaceful float over the estate, with the château’s intricate architecture and sprawling grounds unfolding below.
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Transportation and Meeting Options
The tour offers several convenient meeting points to suit different travelers. You can opt for a shuttle service from the Orléans TGV station for an additional $15 per person, or meet directly at the flight base in Jouy-le-Potier. Alternatively, travelers can be guided to the airfield near Château de Chambord, with prior WhatsApp confirmation to ensure smooth logistics.
The van transfer from the meeting point to the launch site takes approximately 30 minutes. After the flight, the van transports guests back to the original meeting point, completing the overall 3-hour experience.
The Entire Itinerary: From Setup to Breakfast
The activity begins with the pick-up and transportation to the launch site, where the pre-flight briefing prepares you for the adventure. The team then sets up the balloon, explaining each step to ensure understanding and safety.
Once airborne, the flight lasts about an hour, during which you’ll admire the Chambord estate from above, with views of the château, forests, and fields. The landing involves packing away the balloon, with the team handling most of the work. Afterward, guests are treated to a breakfast or aperitif at the launch site, providing a relaxed way to conclude the flight and reflect on the experience.
Flight Experience and Pilot Expertise
The pilots leading the tours are passionate and highly experienced, with hundreds of hours flying the balloons. They are committed to safety and customer enjoyment, providing a calm and informative experience. The new hot air balloons ensure a comfortable and reliable flight, minimizing any concerns about the equipment.
The guides also take photos before takeoff, capturing the moment from within the basket for guests to keep as a memento. Their knowledge of the region and the best flight conditions contributes to a memorable and smooth flight.
More Great Tours NearbySafety and Practical Tips for Participants
This tour emphasizes safety, with strict guidelines on what to bring and what to avoid. Travelers should wear closed-toe shoes and avoid weapons, sharp objects, smoking, vaping, alcohol, and fireworks. The activity is not suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, or people with health or mobility issues.
Guests should plan to arrive at the meeting point on time and communicate their preferred meeting location in advance. It’s advisable to dress appropriately for the weather, as temperature can vary during early morning or evening flights.
What Sets This Tour Apart from Others
The expertise of LES BALLONS DE LOIRE and their long-standing experience of over 35 years distinguish this experience. The use of brand-new balloons adds a modern and safe aspect, while the flexibility in meeting points ensures convenience.
Plus, the combination of flight, transportation, and post-flight breakfast or aperitif provides a complete and relaxed experience. The ability to choose sunrise or sunset allows for different scenic atmospheres, adding variety for repeat visitors.
Practicalities and Additional Information
The total tour lasts about 3 hours, with roughly 1 hour of actual flight. The return to the meeting point concludes the activity, and guests receive an official “LES BALONS DE LOIRE” certificate as a keepsake.
For those interested in combining this with other activities, there are similar experiences available such as château tours, wine tastings, or other hot air balloon rides in the Loire Valley. All bookings are flexible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the pay later feature offers added flexibility.
Final Thoughts on the Chambord Hot Air Balloon Flight
This hot air balloon experience over Chambord offers a beautifully peaceful way to appreciate the Château de Chambord and its surroundings. The professional pilots, modern balloons, and scenic timing during sunrise or sunset make this a compelling choice for special occasions or those seeking a unique perspective of the Loire.
While the price of $386 may seem steep for some**, the included transportation, safety measures, and post-flight breakfast provide a comprehensive experience. It suits adults and older children who are comfortable with heights and outdoor conditions.
This tour delivers a safe, well-organized, and breathtaking flight that highlights the region’s beauty from an extraordinary vantage point.
Ready to Book?
Hot air balloon flight over Chambord
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included in the tour price?
Transportation is included when meeting at the flight base or near Château de Chambord. An additional $15 fee applies for the shuttle from the Orléans TGV station.
What is the duration of the entire experience?
The full experience lasts approximately 3 hours, with about 1 hour of flight time. The activity includes setup, flying, packing, and breakfast or aperitif.
Can I choose the time of the flight?
Yes, you can opt for sunrise or sunset flights, depending on availability.
What should I wear for the flight?
Closed-toe shoes are required. Dress appropriately for the weather, as temperatures can vary during early morning or evening.
Are there any restrictions for children or pregnant women?
Yes, children under 7 years, pregnant women, and individuals with certain health issues** are not allowed to participate.
What safety measures are in place?
The pilots have hundreds of hours of flight experience, and the balloons are new. The tour includes a pre-flight briefing, and safety guidelines are strictly followed.
What is included in the package?
The package includes transportation to the takeoff point, pre-flight briefing, setting up the balloon, photos, flight, landing, breakfast or aperitif, and an official certificate.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there a way to pay later?
Yes, the Reserve & Pay Later option lets you book now and pay nothing until closer to the date.
What makes this experience unique?
The expert pilots, modern balloons, and the choice of sunrise or sunset flights set this tour apart, offering a peaceful and scenic way to view Chambord from the air.
