Geelong & Bellarine: Hot Air Balloon Flight with Breakfast

Summary

Sunrise balloon ride above Geelong’s gardens, coast and peninsula

You’ll float quietly above Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula as morning light spills across gardens and coastline, with a local guide pointing out hidden corners below. After landing (and maybe a few laughs), you’ll share breakfast with fellow travelers before heading back into town — that feeling stays with you.

What’s the experience like?

We were already shivering in the field outside Geelong when our pilot, Mark, handed out coffee from a thermos — honestly, I was more nervous than cold. The balloon looked impossibly huge up close, all bright colors against the half-light. People chatted softly while they laid out the basket; someone joked about not dropping their phone over the Bellarine Peninsula. When we finally climbed in, my hands shook a bit (not just from the chill), but Mark grinned and said it’s always like this for first-timers.

The lift-off was weirdly gentle. Suddenly we were floating right above the Botanic Gardens — you could see neat rows of trees and tiny people walking below, which made me laugh for some reason. The coastline opened up on one side, all soft grey-blue water and little boats. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for the burner’s whoosh and a couple of magpies calling somewhere far off. I didn’t expect to feel so calm up there. Mark pointed out landmarks around Geelong and told stories about early flights — apparently he’s flown this route hundreds of times but still gets a kick out of it.

Landing was bumpier than I thought (my knee hit the basket edge — no big deal), but everyone cheered anyway. We piled into their van for the ride back, swapping photos and laughing about our awkward landings. Breakfast tasted better than usual — maybe because we’d been awake since before sunrise or maybe just because hot toast after flying feels special somehow. I still think about that view over the gardens when I close my eyes at night.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hot air balloon flight and views

• Take hot air balloon flight
• Enjoy views of Geelong
• See Bellarine Peninsula coastline

Top questions

How long is the hot air balloon flight in Geelong?

The flight lasts approximately one hour in the air.

Is transport to the launch site included?

Yes, transport to the launch field and back is included in your booking.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Can I take public transport to join the balloon flight?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Does this experience include breakfast?

Yes, breakfast is included after your flight lands.

Is insurance provided during the hot air balloon ride?

Yes, insurance is included as part of your booking.

Can I participate if I've been scuba diving recently?

No, you cannot join if you have been scuba diving within 24 hours before your flight.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?

The experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels except as noted in health restrictions.

What’s included

Your morning includes pickup in our vehicles to reach the launch field near Geelong, about an hour floating above city gardens and coastline with an experienced pilot guiding you, insurance throughout your journey, return transport after landing, plus breakfast shared with your group before heading back into town.