Hot Air Ballooning in Lake Bourget, Aix les Bains

To float above Lake Bourget, near Aix les Bains, is to experience the French Alps from a perspective reserved for the truly adventurous. Hot air ballooning here offers a rare blend of serenity and spectacle, revealing the largest natural lake in France in all its shifting moods. The gentle morning mist rising from the water, the sun glinting off the blue-green surface, and the dramatic backdrop of the Bauges and Chartreuse mountains create a living canvas that changes with every season. This region, nestled between Chambéry and Annecy, is celebrated for its pristine landscapes and outdoor spirit, making it an exceptional destination for those seeking both tranquillity and awe-inspiring views.

Taking to the skies in a hot air balloon above Lake Bourget is a sensory journey. As the burner’s flame flickers and the basket lifts, the world below transforms: the spa town of Aix les Bains, the wooded slopes of Mont Revard, and the distant peaks of the Alps unfold in silence. Flights typically last between one and two hours, tracing routes that follow the lake’s sinuous shoreline, drift over vineyards, or hover above the wild reed beds of the Hautecombe Abbey peninsula. The sensation is both exhilarating and peaceful, with the only sounds being the occasional whoosh of the burner and the calls of distant birds. The changing light, from the golden hues of sunrise to the soft pastels of early evening, adds another dimension to the experience, while the cool, crisp air heightens every sensation.

Local guides in Aix les Bains and around Lake Bourget are seasoned professionals, deeply connected to the region’s outdoor culture. Each flight is meticulously prepared, with modern, well-maintained equipment and comprehensive safety briefings. Passengers are provided with all necessary gear, including sturdy baskets and weather-appropriate clothing recommendations. The area’s ballooning instructors are licensed and insured, ensuring that every aspect of the adventure meets strict safety standards. Their knowledge of the local winds, microclimates, and terrain guarantees not only a safe journey but also the chance to discover hidden corners of Savoie from above. The logistics are seamless, with meeting points easily accessible from Aix les Bains, Chambéry, and the surrounding lakeside villages.

Hot air ballooning over Lake Bourget is accessible to most, including beginners and families, though a reasonable level of fitness is required to stand for the duration of the flight and to climb in and out of the basket. The best conditions are found from spring through autumn, when the weather is stable and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the calmest winds and the most striking light. While no prior experience is necessary, participants should be comfortable with heights and able to follow simple instructions from the guide. This activity attracts couples, groups of friends, and solo travellers alike, all drawn by the promise of a unique perspective on the Savoie region.

There are few experiences as memorable as drifting silently above Lake Bourget, with the Alps on the horizon and the world unfolding beneath you. Discover the magic of hot air ballooning in Aix les Bains and the surrounding region on Manawa, and let the spirit of the French Alps lift you to new heights.