Costa Brava: hot air balloon rides – Private

Imagine floating gently above the rolling hills and rugged coastlines of Catalonia, taking in sweeping views of the Costa Brava at dawn. That’s exactly what a private hot air balloon ride with Globus Empordà promises. The experience combines stunning scenery, peaceful motion, and a touch of adventure—all in a package that feels exclusive and personal. While it doesn’t come cheap, the opportunity to see such iconic landscapes from the sky is a rare treat, especially when shared with loved ones or colleagues.

What really sets this experience apart is its private group setting—you’re not jostling for space with strangers but sharing the basket with your own family, friends, or colleagues. The flight’s early morning timing lends a quiet serenity that’s difficult to match. That said, the activity is weather-dependent, which can occasionally mean rescheduling or cancellations if conditions aren’t ideal. This is a fantastic choice for those seeking a memorable, tranquil adventure that delivers spectacular scenery and a sense of exclusivity.

If you’re after a unique way to celebrate a special occasion, or simply want a peaceful escape above the Costa Brava, this balloon ride could be just the ticket. It’s suitable for families (kids over 5), couples, or company groups looking for an extraordinary outing. Just note that pregnant women and children under 5 are not recommended for safety reasons.

• Exclusive private group: Up to 8 people per booking in a single basket, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Spectacular views: Over 500 to 1200 meters, you’ll see Medes Islands, the Ter River, Cap de Creus, and more.
• Peaceful adventure: The ride is smooth, tranquil, with no dizziness or vertigo—a gentle way to see the landscape.
• Early morning flight: Starts between 6:30 am and 8:00 am, depending on the season, for optimal lighting and calm weather.
• Post-flight celebration: Includes a small lunch with local products, almond cake, juices, and a cava toast.
• Added value: Photos, a GPS track, and a personalized photo magnet are included, capturing your memories beautifully.

The Starting Point and Logistics

The adventure begins at Globus Empordà’s base near Colomers village, where you’ll meet your pilot and receive a safety briefing. The meeting point is straightforward—you look for the balloons on the main road, making it easy to find even early in the morning. The activity only includes the flight itself, with no transportation provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport to and from the launch site.

Starting early is vital to catch the best lighting and weather conditions, with flights scheduled between 6:30 am and 8:00 am depending on the season. This timing offers the most tranquil flying conditions and stunning sunrise views, which are worth the early wake-up call. The activity is designed for groups of 6-8 people in a single basket, ensuring intimacy and safety.

The Flight Itself

The actual balloon ride lasts around one hour and takes place at an altitude between 500 and 1200 meters above sea level. During this peaceful float, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the Costa Brava’s dramatic coastline, including the Medes Islands, the Gulf of Roses, and Cap de Creus. Many reviews highlight that the scenery is simply breathtaking, with some describing it as a “fantastic way to see the landscape from a new perspective.”

The tranquility of the ride is a major highlight. Unlike helicopters or planes, the balloon moves with the wind, creating a sensation of gentle drifting. Passengers report feeling no dizziness or vertigo—just serenity and awe. The pilot typically offers commentary about the sights, making the experience both relaxing and educational.

Post-Flight Celebrations

After landing, the balloon is quickly packed away, and guests are treated to a small celebratory lunch featuring local products. Expect almond cake, juices, and a toast with cava, which adds a festive touch to the morning. Many reviewers appreciate this thoughtful gesture, noting that it’s a lovely way to conclude the experience and share stories about the flight.

The package includes a photo report, a personalized photo magnet, and a GPS track recording of your flight path. These memorabilia are a big plus, allowing you to relive the moment and share your adventure with friends and family. The photos are generally well-liked, with visitors noting they capture the magic of the landscape and the serenity of the flight.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Because weather can influence balloon flights, it’s wise to have flexible plans and be prepared for possible rescheduling. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or children under 5—the latter due to safety reasons, and the former because of safety precautions during flight. Also, pack a sun hat for comfort—early mornings can be cool, but the sun quickly warms the open air.

The lack of pickup and drop-off means you need to arrange your own transportation to the launch site, which could be a minor inconvenience if you’re relying on public transit or staying far away.

At $1,690 per group for up to 8 people, this experience isn’t inexpensive. However, considering that it’s a private, personalized activity with included photos and a celebratory drink, many find it offers excellent value for a special occasion or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. The exclusivity, combined with the stunning views and the peaceful nature of the flight, makes it worth splurging for those seeking a memorable, intimate experience.

This balloon ride suits travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic adventure away from crowded tours. It’s perfect for families with older children, couples celebrating an anniversary, or corporate groups wanting a unique team-building activity. If you’re someone who appreciates scenic vistas, tranquility, and a touch of luxury, this experience will not disappoint.

The Costa Brava hot air balloon ride by Globus Empordà offers a beautifully serene way to see Catalonia’s stunning coastline from above. The private group setting ensures a personalized, intimate journey, and the included memorabilia provide lasting memories. While the price might seem steep, the combination of exclusive access, breathtaking views, and post-flight celebration makes it a worthwhile splurge for a special occasion or a bucket-list experience.

Just remember, as with all balloon adventures, it’s weather-dependent, so flexibility is key. If you’re after a peaceful, awe-inspiring adventure that elevates your Costa Brava visit, this balloon ride could be just the highlight you’re dreaming of.

How many people can be in the balloon basket?
The balloon is designed for a private group of up to 8 people, with some baskets accommodating 12 people, but the tour is typically booked privately for a maximum of 8 to ensure comfort.

What is included in the price?
Your booking includes the hour-long balloon flight, safety briefing, photos, a personalized photo magnet, GPS track recording, and a small celebratory lunch with local products, juices, and cava.

Is transportation provided?
No, there is no pickup or drop-off included. You’ll need to make your own arrangements to reach the launch site at Colomers village.

What is the best time of day to fly?
Flights mainly take place early in the morning, between 6:30 am and 8:00 am, to take advantage of the calm weather and beautiful sunrise lighting.

Can children participate?
Children under 5 are not allowed, and the activity is generally suitable for families with older children who can enjoy the tranquil flight.

Is it suitable for pregnant women?
Pregnant women are advised not to participate for safety reasons.

What should I bring?
A sun hat is recommended; dress comfortably for early morning temperatures, which can be cool before sunrise.

How does the weather affect the experience?
The activity is weather-dependent—flights may be canceled or rescheduled if conditions aren’t suitable. Flexibility is important.

What makes this experience stand out?
The private setting, stunning landscape views, and the peaceful, vertigo-free sensation make this a memorable adventure for those seeking tranquility and exclusivity.

Set out on a peaceful journey above Costa Brava with this private hot air balloon experience, perfect for celebrating special moments or simply enjoying nature from a new perspective.