Published on Aug, 2018
It was a lifetime dream come true. You save a long time for this, wondering "Will it be worth it after all?", and then it exceeds all expectations.
The communication before the day was excellent, Granada had wind problems on the day but we were advised the day before that they would pick us up and take us to Guadix for the flight. The staff were efficient and friendly, they involved the group in all stages of the preparations, from spreading out the gigantic balloon onto the square in the dark, to starting to inflate it, letting us even inside the massive dome as it was growing taller and wider. It was like being inside a colossal, multi-coloured cave, getting bigger and bigger. Then, the magic of the smooth lift-off, the ride itself, with breathtaking views, very quiet and even, and not frightening at all. The other people on the ride (8 of us in total plus the pilot) were extremely friendly and careful to swap places or allow everybody - children included - a proper view. The sunrise seen from the balloon is a dreamy experience, too beautiful to tell. We went up and down several times, to catch various currents, the pilot was expert and very kind in explaining anything we were wondering about. First-time fliers or apprehensive persons will have no problems. The landing - in a remote wheat field - was gentle and fun at the same time, with everybody getting busy to deflate the balloon and fold it up, as the pick up vans were navigating their way to the rescue. Breakfast in a nearby cafeteria was offered, generous and delicious, at about 10, followed by the ritual christening of the newbies with Cava (the pilot was careful to leave plenty for a final toast with the group) and a special certificate. We were then driven back to our respective locations. All in all, a really enjoyable and exciting experience, which we thoroughly recommend.
