How to Get from Melbourne CBD to Balloon Launch Sites
Whether you’re joining a sunrise flight over the city or the Yarra Valley, one of the most common questions guests ask is:
“How do I get to the balloon launch site that early in the morning?”
Here’s everything you need to know — from meeting points and pickup options to travel tips for a smooth start to your day.
1. Understanding the Early Start ⏰
Hot-air-balloon flights take place at sunrise, when the air is calmest and safest for flying.
Meeting times are usually around 4:30–5:00 am in summer and 5:30–6:00 am in winter (depending on sunrise time).
It’s an early start, but watching the first light of day from the sky is absolutely worth it.
2. Melbourne CBD Flights
Meeting Point
For Melbourne city flights, the meeting point is at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins (Collins Street).
Guests staying in CBD, Docklands, or Southbank can request hotel pickup — our team can collect you directly from your accommodation and bring you to the Sofitel meeting point.
From there, the crew will transfer you to the launch site, located just outside the city (usually within 20–30 minutes’ drive, depending on wind direction and weather conditions).
After the Flight
You’ll land somewhere within Melbourne’s outer suburbs and be returned to the CBD after the flight — just in time for breakfast or sightseeing.
📍 Approximate travel time: 10–30 minutes from the CBD to the launch site, plus return transfer after landing.
3. Yarra Valley Flights
Meeting Point
For Yarra Valley flights, guests departing from the city meet at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins.
Please note that we do not provide individual hotel pickups for this service — all city-based guests meet directly at the Sofitel before traveling to the Yarra Valley together.
Guests who prefer to travel independently (or are already staying in the region) can go directly to Yarra Valley Lodge, which serves as the local meeting point for the balloon team.
Travel Time
The Yarra Valley is about 60 km east of Melbourne, and the drive takes roughly 60–75 minutes.
You’ll arrive just as the balloon crew prepares for launch in the calm, cool morning air.
Option 1: Shuttle Transfer (Add-On Service)
Guests staying in Melbourne can book a return shuttle transfer from the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins for an additional fee.
The bus departs early in the morning, takes you to the Yarra Valley, and brings you back after your flight and breakfast.
It’s the most comfortable and convenient option — especially if you plan to enjoy a glass of champagne or wine later in the day.
Option 2: Self-Drive
If you prefer flexibility, you can drive directly to Yarra Valley Lodge, where free parking is available and our team will meet you before the flight.
Please allow plenty of time and check your route the night before.
4. After the Flight – What’s Next
Flights finish mid-morning, leaving you the rest of the day to explore.
If you’ve flown over the city, enjoy brunch at one of Melbourne’s iconic cafés.
If you’re in the Yarra Valley, continue with a winery visit, distillery tasting, or a scenic drive through the vineyards.
5. Travel Tips for an Easy Morning
Check your confirmation email the night before for meeting time and location updates.
Set more than one alarm! Sunrise won’t wait.
Lay out your clothes and camera gear in advance.
Dress in layers: cool before sunrise, warmer after take-off.
If you’re tired after the flight, let our driver handle the return trip.
6. Making the Journey Part of the Experience
The quiet early-morning journey to your balloon flight adds to the anticipation.
The streets are still, the stars bright, and the air fresh with promise.
By the time you lift off and the horizon begins to glow, you’ll realise that even the journey there was part of the magic.
✨ Ready to plan your morning adventure?
Book your Hot Air Balloon Flight over Melbourne or the Yarra Valley, and choose the travel option that suits you best — whether it’s a relaxing (add-on) shuttle transfer or a scenic self-drive to Yarra Valley Lodge.