Hot-Air Ballooning over the Valley
Napa Valley is the busiest hot-air balloon "flight corridor" in the world. Northern California's temperate weather allows for ballooning year-round, and on summer mornings in the valley, it's a rare day when you don't see at least one of the colorful airships floating above the vineyards.
Trips depart early in the morning, when the air is cooler and the balloons have better lift. (Note: When weather conditions aren't optimal, balloon companies often launch flights from locations up to an hour's drive outside the valley. You won't know until the morning of the flight, but you should be able to cancel on the spot if you desire.) Flight paths vary with the direction and speed of the changing breezes, so "chase" crews on the ground must follow the balloons to their undetermined destinations. Most flights last about an hour and end with a traditional champagne celebration and breakfast. Reservations are required and should be made far in advance. Prices run close to $200 per person for the basic package, which includes shuttle service from your hotel. Wedding, wine tasting, picnic, and lodging packages are also available. For more information or reservations, call Napa's Adventures Aloft (tel. 800/944-4408 or 707/944-4408; www.nvaloft.com) or Bonaventura Balloon Company (tel. 800/FLY-NAPA; www.bonaventuraballoons.com).
