Explore Mallorca from the sky
I love a good adventure, but I must admit I was a bit nervous doing a balloon ride for the first time. It is very safe statistically, but I still could not help feeling the nerves.
We met at 7 AM at the Globodromo near Manacor (A special airport for balloons, off MA‑15 exit 44), along with half a dozen other early risers. Our pilot offered a quick safety briefing in English and Spanish. Within thirty minutes of preparations, the balloon stood tall and I was stepping aboard the basked.
As the burner lit and the balloon rose everyone got quiet. Below, olive groves, sunflower patches and orange orchards sprawled until we got our first view of the sea. At about 300–500 m above ground, we drifted across the rural heart of Mallorca. Sadly, this day was a bit to hazy to get a glimpse of the island of Menorca, but the sea views were stunning!
Floating silently—except for the occasional whoosh of the burner—felt like time had slowed. A cava in hand, the sky wore morning’s pastel palette: pinks, golds, and gentle blues folding over each layer of sky. On clear days, our pilot explained, you can see islands far beyond.
The flight lasted about an hour. Every few minutes, our pilot, Jordi adjusted altitude to catch the wind currents. We drifted toward Felanitx, skimming over green fields with tiny sheep and streets with miniature cars.
Then came the landing. We all had to hold steady and crouch down. We landed in a finca field.
Once the balloon was deflated, we shared a ritual flight “baptism”—champagne for us, a hearty handshake for Jordi—and earned our flight certificates. Some providers even include a breakfast of fruit, pastries, local treats, and coffee, though ours opted for cava.
The entire experience—from check‑in to return—spanned around three to four hours. It’s essential to arrive early (15 minutes before lift), wear layers and sneakers (no flip‑flops!), and prepare for sunrise weather that might still be brisk before that burner’s heat warms you up.
Of course, the wild card is weather. Mallorca’s skies can shift in a heartbeat—too windy or low-visibility, and flights are postponed. I personally had one rescheduled in January, but it only made the eventual sunrise all the sweeter.
All in all an amazing activity that was definitely worth waking up early for!