Combining Ballooning with a Yarra Valley Wine Tour
Few experiences capture the spirit of the Yarra Valley like this one — floating above the vineyards at sunrise, then spending the rest of the day tasting the wines grown beneath you.
A hot air balloon flight and wine tour make the perfect pairing: peaceful adventure followed by pure indulgence. It’s the kind of day that blends nature, culture, and flavour into one unforgettable journey.
1. Sunrise in the Sky
Your day begins before dawn, when the valley is quiet and cool.
As the balloon rises, the first light spills over rolling vineyards, winding roads, and distant mountain ranges.
You’ll see the Yarra River glimmering in the mist, the Dandenong Ranges in the distance, and neat rows of vines glowing gold in the early sun.
It’s calm, serene, and completely breathtaking — a view that shows exactly why the Yarra Valley is one of Australia’s most beautiful wine regions.
After landing, celebrate the experience with an optional champagne breakfast, continuing a centuries-old ballooning tradition.
2. Transition from Sky to Cellar Door
By mid-morning, you’re perfectly positioned to begin your next adventure: wine tasting.
Most cellar doors open around 10:30 or 11 a.m., just as you’re finishing breakfast — seamless timing for a relaxed, scenic day.
Many guests choose to join an organised wine tour, which includes transport, tastings, and lunch, while others prefer to drive themselves and explore at their own pace.
3. Wineries Worth Visiting 🍷
The Yarra Valley is home to over 70 wineries, each with its own character.
Here are a few standouts for ballooning guests:
Yering Station
Victoria’s oldest vineyard, known for elegant Chardonnay and Shiraz. The estate’s stone cellar and sweeping lawns make it a must-visit.
Oakridge Wines
Modern architecture meets fine dining. Its restaurant offers seasonal dishes crafted from local produce — perfect for a long lunch.
Domaine Chandon
For sparkling wine lovers, this French-owned estate is heaven. Enjoy tastings, stunning views, and a glass of bubbly on the terrace.
Meletos & Stones of the Yarra Valley
Sister venues offering rustic charm, warm service, and beautiful courtyard dining. The perfect place to slow down and savour the afternoon.
4. Pairing Wine with Experience
After seeing the valley from above, wine tasting feels even more personal.
You’ve seen where the vines grow, how the light moves across the land, and how each hill shapes the flavour in your glass.
From crisp Chardonnay to bold Shiraz and sparkling Blanc de Blancs, every sip tells the story of the same landscape you floated over that morning.
5. Extend the Experience
Make it a full weekend:
Stay overnight in a vineyard cottage or boutique hotel.
Add a cheese or gin tasting at Four Pillars Distillery or Yarra Valley Dairy.
Visit a local market, art gallery, or wildlife sanctuary to round out your day.
It’s a journey that combines adventure, luxury, and local culture — all less than an hour from Melbourne.
6. Tips for Planning
Book early: Balloon flights and wine tours both fill quickly on weekends.
Start with the flight: The calm morning air makes for the best ballooning conditions.
Don’t rush: Allow plenty of time between landing, breakfast, and your first tasting.
Stay hydrated: You’ll want to fully enjoy the day — water between tastings helps.
Designate a driver or book a tour: Many companies offer convenient transfers directly from your breakfast venue.
A Day to Remember
From sunrise to sunset, this is a day built around beauty — the view from the sky, the taste of the vines, and the feeling of being completely present in the moment.
Ballooning and wine tasting share the same essence: both are slow, sensory, and unforgettable.
You rise, you taste, you celebrate — and you see the Yarra Valley from every angle.
✨ Ready to plan your perfect Yarra Valley day?
Book your Hot Air Balloon Flight and pair it with a wine tour or lunch among the vineyards for the ultimate Yarra Valley experience.