Soar Above the Vines: Balloon Aloft’s Unforgettable Hunter Valley Adventure
There’s an indescribable magic in witnessing hot air balloons drift over the lush vineyards of the Hunter Valley at sunrise. Their vibrant colours and gentle glide instantly spark joy—whether you’ve watched them from the roadside or you’ve been lucky enough to experience the flight firsthand. If riding a hot air balloon has long been on your wish list, Balloon Aloft is the name to know. As Australia’s largest hot-air balloon company and a true pioneer of accessible tourism, Balloon Aloft provides an unforgettable, eco-conscious way to see Hunter Valley Wine Country from a fresh perspective.
A Family Legacy Over 44 Years
Established over four decades ago, Balloon Aloft has evolved into a family-run enterprise that leads the Australian ballooning industry. Director Matthew Scaife, who’s been flying since the age of six, emphasises that “it’s not just about passengers and flying.” The team at Balloon Aloft continually collaborates with manufacturers on design innovations to improve safety, comfort, and inclusivity—making the thrill of flight accessible to all.
Balancing tradition and innovation, Balloon Aloft has helped turn hot air ballooning into one of the Hunter Valley’s premier drawcards, rivalled only by the region’s internationally acclaimed wines.
Accessible Ballooning: A World-First Innovation
Balloon Aloft is trailblazing accessible tourism in Australia, recognised with a Gold Award for Excellence in Accessible Tourism and recently inducted into the NSW Tourism Awards Hall of Fame for Adventure Tourism. One of their standout achievements is their wheelchair-accessible balloon basket, which was unveiled about a year ago. Produced by Kavanagh Balloons—an Australian balloon manufacturer—the basket features a specially designed door, custom seating for up to four passengers, and secure harnesses for those with higher accessibility needs. This cutting-edge design means guests using wheelchairs (or those with other mobility concerns) can enjoy ballooning in most weather conditions.
The team also adapts elements of accessibility to standard balloons over time, ensuring a seamless experience for travellers with diverse needs. Whether you’re visually impaired or need extra space and quieter surroundings, Balloon Aloft offers solutions—such as arranging exclusive flights for those who may require a more private, personalised experience.
Committed to Sustainability & Community
Balloon Aloft’s dedication to responsible tourism doesn’t stop at accessibility. They are the first hot air balloon operator to complete Ecotourism Australia’s Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, marking them as leaders in reducing environmental impact and supporting local communities. Initiatives include:
- Carbon Offsetting: Partnering with Greenfleet to minimise their carbon footprint.
- Rainwater & Solar Energy: Utilising renewable resources wherever possible.
- Sea Shepherd Partnership: Acting as a proud ambassador, Balloon Aloft operates a specially designed Sea Shepherd balloon worldwide to raise awareness of marine conservation.
Their community spirit also extends far beyond the Hunter Valley. In collaboration with Yagurli Tours, an Indigenous-owned enterprise in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Balloon Aloft flies travellers over Australia’s largest salt flats. This partnership enriches the local economy, provides meaningful employment opportunities, and showcases the Traditional Custodians’ cultural knowledge.
The Hunter Valley Experience: Sunrise Flights & Gourmet Delights
In the Hunter Valley specifically, Balloon Aloft operates seven days a week, weather permitting. Flights begin bright and early—just in time to catch the sun rising over vineyards and rolling countryside—and last roughly an hour, floating as high as 2,000 feet. Afterwards, guests indulge in a sparkling wine tasting and gourmet breakfast at Peterson House and Restaurant Cuvee, a perfect complement to a magical morning in the sky.
- Flight Duration: About 1 hour (but allow 3.5 to 4 hours total for the full experience)
- Prices: From $319 per person
- Exclusive Flights: From $2,200 (ideal for celebrations, proposals, or those seeking a private voyage)
- Complimentary Photo Album: Each passenger receives a digital record to relive—and share—the experience.
Beyond a Bucket-List Moment
It’s no surprise that hot air ballooning in the Hunter Valley has become synonymous with celebration—think milestone birthdays, romantic proposals, or simply ticking off a personal bucket list item. Yet Balloon Aloft aims to remind everyone that you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy this unique perspective. Sometimes, simply floating silently above lush vineyards and rugged mountain ranges is reason enough to schedule a flight.
“Along with wine, ballooning experiences are now one of the major reasons people visit the Hunter Valley,” Matthew explains, underscoring the region’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class adventure.
Plan Your Flight and Let the Hunter Valley Dazzle You
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a romantic soul, or simply someone who appreciates spectacular views, a Balloon Aloft flight over the Hunter Valley will stay with you for a lifetime. From the playful excitement of spotting fellow balloons in the distance to the tranquil moments drifting with the breeze, every minute offers an exhilarating mix of joy, wonder, and awe.
- How to Book
Visit balloonaloft.com for available dates, accessible flight options, and pricing details. - Location
Launch sites are spread across the Hunter Valley, tailoring each flight path to weather conditions for the best possible views. - What to Wear
Dress comfortably for early mornings. Layering is recommended—mornings can start chilly, but the burner’s warmth overhead adds a cosy touch mid-flight.
Explore More with Made in Pokolbin
At Made in Pokolbin, our mission is to showcase the region’s best-kept secrets and must-do experiences—from family-run vineyards and unique farm-to-table dining to once-in-a-lifetime adventures like hot air ballooning. The Hunter Valley’s charm goes far beyond wine, and Balloon Aloft’s balloon rides are a vivid testament to how this region continues to captivate travellers from around the globe.
Don’t just admire those balloons from the ground—make your own unforgettable memories in the sky. Book your flight with Balloon Aloft, and embark on a sunrise journey that perfectly captures the spirit of the Hunter Valley: accessible, sustainable, exhilarating, and filled with a sense of wonder at every turn.
