Lake Balaton looks different from above, especially if you're flying over it in a hot air balloon – which you can do with the team of Balaton Ballooning near Keszthely. Here’s what to expect from the experience.

Balaton Ballooning offers pleasure rides in hot air balloons, taking off near Keszthely. The tours start an hour before sunset, depending on the season, and are available on fixed days between April 1 and October 31. After meeting up at a service station near Hévíz, you’ll be transported to the take-off site. You can see how many free spots they have for the next flight on their website and book ahead: the one-hour ride, with transfer, tour guide and travel insurance, costs 42,000 forints per person, including a certificate and a glass of champagne or mineral water at the end of the tour. The price is 29,000 forints for under-12s, while under-6s aren’t allowed to fly. Discounts are sometimes offered, mostly before Christmas and in spring. Gift vouchers are also available.

If you have any doubts about flying in a balloon, rest assured. Pilots are all highly experienced and the equipment is of great quality. Your pilot will give you instructions, including what to do during landing, before taking off, making sure it’s all smooth sailing. The route always depends on the winds, which also means that there isn’t a fixed landing spot, but transportation back to Hévíz is included in the price, wherever the balloon may land. One thing is for sure: whichever route the balloon takes, the view will be spectacular. See all details here.