Soaring above the City of Four Queens
At the first light of dawn, as Provence takes on tones of ochre and lavender, you leave the ground for an aerial adventure over Forcalquier. In a silence that feels almost surreal, broken only by the occasional roar of the burners, the hot air balloon carries you into the skies of Haute-Provence.
Why choose this unique experience?
For over thirty years, France Montgolfières has turned sunrises into memorable moments. Certified by the DGAC (French Civil Aviation Authority) since 1997, this family-owned company has made the skies of Forcalquier its home turf. The launch site is no accident. Tucked between the montagne de Lure and the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon, this area provides ideal wind conditions and expansive views.
The region reveals itself from a new perspective. The hilltop villages look like they are floating on rounded hills, the lavender fields form purple waves, and the hidden vineyards trace geometric patterns. On clear days, your view stretches all the way to Mont Ventoux, the giant of Provence that stands guard over the region.
A morning outside of time
The meeting point is at dawn on the route de Niozelles. You head out in a 4x4 with the crew toward the launch site, which is chosen based on the day's wind patterns. Once there, the well-rehearsed preparation begins. The 300-kilogram fabric envelope is carefully laid out and slowly inflated. Watching this massive, brightly colored shape take form is a highlight of the trip.
After a safety briefing from your pilot, you step over the wicker basket rim. With a maximum of twelve passengers on board, the experience stays intimate. The burners roar one last time, and the takeoff is smooth and nearly imperceptible. You do not feel vertigo or motion sickness, as you are flying with the wind, not through it.
An hour suspended between heaven and earth
During the flight, the pilot shares insights about the landscape below. Forcalquier, the city of four queens, shows off its medieval history from above. The 13th-century Cathedral of Notre-Dame du Bourguet, the Couvent des Cordeliers (Franciscan friary), and the star-shaped alleys of the old town all take on a new dimension from the air. The Banon and Coulon valleys pass by, dotted with traditional stone farmhouses and lone cypress trees.
Altitude varies based on thermal currents, typically between 100 and 1000 meters. Higher up, you take in the vastness of Haute-Provence. Lower down, you can spot the details: a shepherd with his flock, a farmer in his field, and rural life waking up.
Landing and the aeronauts' ritual
The wind dictates your final destination. The pilot brings the balloon down with precision for a soft landing in a meadow. The ground crew, who has been tracking the balloon, arrives quickly to help pack it up. You are welcome to help with this final step, which is a social part of the experience.
Pro tip: Dress in layers. Contrary to what you might expect, it is not particularly cold in the balloon because you move with the wind, but the Provençal dawn can be chilly. Wear closed-toe, comfortable shoes to make climbing into the basket easier.
Next comes the aeronauts' toast, an ancient tradition dating back to the first flights. Over a glass of champagne, the pilot shares sky legends and presents each passenger with a personalized souvenir certificate. A vehicle then drives you back to the meeting point, with your head still in the clouds and memories of the flight.
Essential information before you fly
Flight conditions:
- Available from April to late October, mornings at sunrise only
- Flights depend on weather and may be rescheduled if conditions are poor
- Wind under 20 km/h (12 mph) is required for safety
- The pilot reserves the right to change the launch site based on conditions
Accessibility:
- Available for ages 6 and up, with an adult required for those under 12
- No specific physical fitness required
- You must be able to stand for about an hour and crouch for the landing
- Strictly forbidden for pregnant women
- If you have medical concerns, consult your doctor beforehand
Duration and validity:
- Full experience: 3 to 3.5 hours, including 1 hour of flight time
- Tickets are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase
- Free rescheduling if a flight is canceled due to weather
Opening hours
*Information subject to change