Chenonceau Hot Air Balloon Flight

Durée du séjour : ATTENTION ! La moyenne de poids ne peut pas excéder 240 kilos, soit une moyenne de 80 kilos par passager.
Durée du vol : env. 20-25 minutes
Flights April to October

Individual tickets

Cancellation options


Amount incl. VAT 289
helibox available
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Chenonceau airship flight - A unique experience in France

ATTENTION : La moyenne de poids ne peut pas excéder 240 kilos, soit une moyenne de 80 kilos par passager.

Embark on an airship flight over the Château de Chenonceau and enjoy a unique aerial experience in France. Under a 40-meter-long hot-air balloon, you'll be seated comfortably in a 3-passenger open gondola for a 20 to 25-minute flight over the Cher valley and the Château de Chenonceau.

Unlike a hot-air balloon, a hot-air balloon is motorized and steerable: it is equipped with a propeller and a rudder that allow your pilot to steer the flight and optimize the flight over Chenonceau. A rare, intimate and eco-responsible airship experience.

Course of your hot-air balloon flight

Rendezvous at Chenonceaux

The day before your Chenonceau airship flight, our team will confirm the exact meeting point by e-mail/SMS.

On site, you'll be taken care of by our team, where you'll discover the imposing hot-air blimp and witness its preparations.

Preparing and inflating the airship

Before takeoff, you'll watch the balloon being inflated: the structure unfolds on the ground, fills with hot air, then gradually rises above the gondola. This impressive moment is an integral part of the experience.

Your pilot will then brief you on safety, the flight schedule and the main viewpoints. You'll be seated in passenger seats, and fitted with headsets to communicate with him and your fellow passengers.

Take-off: 20 to 25 minutes above Chenonceau

The airship takes off smoothly, almost silently, and you gradually gain altitude. The very gradual take-off and landing allow us to welcome a wide public, including senior citizens and some people with reduced mobility (contact us beforehand to check feasibility).

Depending on where you take off and the wind conditions, your hot-air blimp flight will allow you to discover :

  • the Château de Chenonceau and its gallery spanning the Cher river,
  • the Cher valley, its islands and wooded banks,
  • the Loire landscape: villages, vineyards, private estates and the Touraine countryside.

Thanks to its propulsion system, the airship offers a more controlled trajectory than a hot-air balloon: your pilot can steer the flight to make the most of the most beautiful panoramas, when they are compatible with the weather and aviation regulations.

Smooth landing and return to the rendezvous point

After 20 to 25 minutes of flight, the airship gradually descends for a soft landing. You can then take your souvenir photos at the foot of the aircraft and chat with the pilot about airship technology, the landscapes overflown and the difference with hot-air balloon flights.

Our team will then drive you back to your original meeting point (Chenonceaux).

Chenonceau seen from an airship: a rare perspective

Château de Chenonceau, nicknamed the "Château des Dames", is one of the jewels of the Renaissance in the Loire Valley. Its famous two-storey gallery crossing the Cher, its gardens designed by Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Médicis, and its history marked by female figures make it an absolutely unique site.

From a hot-air blimp, you can enjoy an exceptional lateral and panoramic view of the entire site: the gallery over the water, the geometric gardens, the wooded banks and the course of the Cher River. This low-speed aerial perspective lets you savor every detail, and take photos and videos from an angle rarely offered to the general public.

Why choose Chenonceau airship flight?

  • A unique product in France: a modern, eco-responsible hot-air airship, operated by a company specializing in the Loire Valley.
  • An ultra-intimate experience: only 3 passengers on board, for a privileged moment with your partner, family or friends.
  • Steered, controlled flight: unlike a hot-air balloon, an airship is equipped with a propeller and a rudder, enabling the trajectory to be steered when conditions allow.
  • Superior comfort: leather seats, radio headphones, open gondola to enjoy the scenery without feeling confined.
  • A reasoned impact: hot-air inflated aircraft, designed with eco-responsibility in mind and integrated into Air Touraine's Green Flag CSR initiative.

Practical information - Chenonceau airship flight

  • Flight time: approx. 20-25 minutes (depending on weather and air traffic)
  • Period: flights from April to October
  • Meeting point : Chenonceaux (confirmed the day before the flight)
  • Number of passengers: maximum 3 on board the gondola
  • Public: activity open to all, subject to compatible physical conditions (contact us in case of doubt, pregnancy, recent surgery, particular pathology, etc.).
  • Accessibility: gradual take-off and landing, possibility to welcome senior citizens and, after prior discussion, certain people with reduced mobility.
  • Tickets: valid for 18 months from date of purchase
  • Cancellation options: you can take out a cancellation option (basic or first postponement) when you place your order.
  • Weather: in the event of strong winds, rain or unfavorable conditions, the flight may be postponed to guarantee the safety and quality of the experience.
  • Recommended attire: comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, light windbreaker if necessary.
  • Check-in: on arrival, present your boarding pass and ID to our pilot .

Air Touraine: a pioneer in light aviation and eco-responsible flights

Based in Touraine for over 45 years, Air Touraine is an airline specializing in tourist flights by helicopter, hot-air balloon and airship, as well as aerial work and tailor-made holidays.

We have numerous aeronautical approvals certificates, a guarantee of reliability and safety, including :

  • Helicopter air carrier: FR.AOC.0079
  • Hot-air balloon carrier: FR-O063
  • Operator specialized in high-risk aerial work: FR.DEC.0110
  • Flying school (helicopter / hot-air balloon) : FR.DTO.0284
  • Airworthiness Manager: FR.CAMO.0116

In addition to these aeronautical approvals, our tourism certifications (travel operator registration, financial guarantee, professional liability insurance) ensure a secure legal and financial framework for your bookings.

With our Green Flag CSR project, we are integrating environmental, social and economic considerations at the heart of our strategy: reducing our environmental footprint, supporting the regions we fly over, promoting sustainable tourism in the Loire Valley.

Who is the Chenonceau airship flight for?

This hot-air balloon flight is particularly suited to those seeking :

  • a rare and original experience above the Châteaux de la Loire,
  • an exceptional gift (birthday, anniversary, retirement, Christmas),
  • an intimate moment for couples or small groups (3 people maximum),
  • an alternative to hot-air ballooning, more directed and confidential,
  • a premium activity for a stay in the Loire Valley or a corporate event (VIP clients, incentives...).

Book your airship flight over Chenonceau

To book your Chenonceau airship flight:

  1. Choose your individual ticket, duo offer or child ticket directly on this page and validate your order online.
  2. Receive your ticket valid for 18 months (e-ticket or gift box) to give as a gift or use yourself.
  3. Then book your date via our online schedule or by using the "I've got my tickets, I'm booking" section .

Our team is at your disposal for any questions you may have or for custom projects:

Treat yourself to the magic of a hot-air balloon flight over Chenonceau and discover the Château des Dames, the Cher Valley and the Loire Valley landscapes as you've never seen them before: from the sky, in total comfort.

- The meeting point is in Chenonceaux or Tours (confirmed the day before the flight) where you will be taken care of by our team.

- Number of passengers on board: maximum 3

- Public: Thisactivity is open to all!

- Check-in: On arrival, present your boarding pass and ID to our pilot for check-in.

Château de Chenonceau, a Renaissance masterpiece in the Loire Valley, is distinguished by its famous two-storey gallery that harmoniously spans the Cher River. Known as the "Château des Dames", it owes its nickname and unique charm to the influence of its female owners, who have shaped and embellished the monument over the centuries. Built in 1513 by Katherine Briçonnet, it was subsequently enlarged by Diane de Poitiers, transformed and sumptuously decorated by Catherine de Médicis, becoming one of the most important sites of royal power in France.

Despite the vagaries of history, Chenonceau was spared during the French Revolution thanks to the intervention of Madame Dupin, who succeeded in preserving the integrity of this architectural gem. Today, her feminine imprint remains everywhere, from the layout of the gardens to the interior decor, testifying to a rare refinement and an atmosphere of tranquility.

This privately-owned monument is one of France's most visited sites, attracting travelers from all over the world thanks to its fascinating history, richly furnished rooms and exceptional location on the Cher River. The gardens, designed in the image of the great ladies who left their mark on the place, offer a peaceful setting for strolling, admiring the flower beds and enjoying superb panoramic views.

For an even more memorable experience, many visitors opt for a helicopter or hot-air balloon flight, contemplating the unparalleled perspective offered by the gallery that crosses the Cher, and the beauty of the region's wooded surroundings. This aerial view reveals the perfect harmony between Renaissance architecture, French gardens and the winding course of the river.

Close to other Châteaux de la Loire, such as Amboise and Villandry, Château de Chenonceau is a must-see when visiting Touraine. Its elegance, historical heritage and feminine aura make it a place charged with emotion, indissociable from the French art of living.

The Loire Valley is one of the world's heritage treasures, a veritable open-air history book stretching across miles of enchanting landscapes. Renowned for its emblematic châteaux - such as Chambord, Chenonceau, Blois and many others - this region offers a concentration of architectural masterpieces and cultural heritage. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Loire Valley boasts a variety of landscapes, from verdant vineyards and French gardens to picturesque villages and historic towns.

 

At the heart of this territory lies a rich artistic and historical heritage, where every monument, alleyway and bridge seems to tell a story. In addition to its famous châteaux, the Loire Valley is also home to religious sites, mills, ancestral homes and renowned wineries, bearing witness to centuries of cultural evolution and refinement. Lovers of architecture, history and gastronomy will find much to enjoy in exploring this living heritage, which also offers numerous cultural and leisure activities, such as guided tours, festivals, and excursions by bike or boat on the river.

Whether you're passionate about history, curious about architectural gems or simply looking for a change of scenery, the Loire Valley promises an unforgettable immersion in the French art of living, where tradition and modernity come together in perfect harmony.

  • Terms of payment :

Full payment is required at the time of order (via credit card, cheque or vacation vouchers, cash, bank transfer).
For your convenience, we offer the possibility of paying in 2 instalments free of charge by credit card via our secure online payment platform.

  • Extend the validity of your ticket:

If you wish to extend the validity of your ticket, opt for our extension option and getan extra year to enjoy your experience.

  • Cancellation option :

You can take out a cancellation option when you order or book a date, allowing you to postpone your flight or be reimbursed in the event of a definitive cancellation on your part.

(voir terms and conditions of sale)

Booking your flight: two options

  1. Ticket valid for 18 months: receive your gift box by post (postage 9€90) or collect it from Air Touraine Store, or opt for the ticket sent by e-mail. Plan your date at your convenience using our online schedule. As soon as your order is confirmed, we'll e-mail you a gift voucher, so you can choose the date that suits you best later.

  2. Choose your flight date (ticket valid for 18 months) directly when you order online, by consulting the proposed schedule. If you don't find the date you're looking for, don't hesitate to contact us by e-mail info@airtouraine.fr

New flight date [IF POSTPONED] :

If your flight is postponed due to weather conditions, you have the option of rescheduling your appointment using our "I have my tickets, I'm booking" section.. Simply enter the voucher code you received by e-mail with your initial booking to select a new date via our online calendar. If necessary, we can send you this code again. Simply send a request to the following address: info@airtouraine.fr

Our CSR commitments: GREEN FLAG project

Winds of change meet commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR).

Our sector cannot turn its back on its responsibility for the aviation of tomorrow, and that's why, as a pioneer in green aviation, we're committed to pushing back the boundaries of the airline industry by integrating CSR into every aspect of our business, whether in our helicopters, hot-air balloons or airships.

 

Our approach to CSR is based on three fundamental pillars:

The Environmental Component :

We are aware of the environmental impact of our flight operations. That's why we invest in cutting-edge technologies to reduce our carbon emissions, minimize our ecological footprint and preserve the fragile ecosystems we fly over. From reducing fuel consumption to adopting sustainable biofuels and protecting the biodiversity of our heliport, every flight is a step towards a cleaner, more environmentally-friendly aviation future.

 

The Societal Component :

We firmly believe that our success as an airline goes hand in hand with the well-being of the communities we serve. That's why we're committed to supporting local initiatives, promoting diversity and inclusion among our staff, and ensuring some of the highest standards of safety and well-being in the industry. From creating local jobs to promoting sustainable tourism, we work to be a driver of prosperity and social development wherever we operate.

 

The Economic Component :

Economic sustainability is at the heart of our business model. We are constantly looking for ways to increase operational efficiency, reduce costs and invest in fair and ethical business practices. By working with local partners and fostering inclusive economic growth, we help strengthen regional economies and promote a sustainable financial future for all.

 

 

Our Aeronautical Approvals

At Air Touraine, we're proud to hold the aeronautical industry's most prestigious certifications, testifying to our expertise, safety and professionalism. These certifications, obtained through strict controls and rigorous audits, attest to our compliance with the industry's most demanding standards.

Here is a list of our approvals:

Helicopter air carrier: FR.AOC.0079

Hot-air balloon carrier: FR-O063

Operator specialized in high-risk aerial work: FR.DEC.0110

Flying school (helicopter / hot-air balloon) : FR.DTO.0284

Airworthiness Manager: FR.CAMO.0116


Each code represents a specific recognition of our commitment to safety, the quality of our services and our ability to meet the requirements of the aeronautical sector. Thanks to these approvals, Air Touraine can guarantee its customers certified expertise and an optimum level of service.

By choosing Air Touraine, you're choosing trust and excellence, backed by high-level certifications that place safety and quality at the heart of our concerns. 

 

Our Tourism Approvals

 

Travel Agency Certifications: A Guarantee of Trust and Excellence

At Air Touraine, our commitment to quality, safety and transparency is reflected in the certifications we have earned in the travel industry. These labels attest to our seriousness and expertise, while guaranteeing our customers services that comply with the strictest standards.

Certifications that make all the difference

Our certifications are the fruit of rigorous work and a constant commitment to excellence. They illustrate our ability to offer tailor-made trips, with customer satisfaction and safety at the heart of our concerns. Thanks to these labels, we can assure you of transparent management, impeccable service quality and total compliance with the regulations in force in the tourism industry.

 

We are registered with the Registre des Operateurs de Voyage et de Séjours: IM03700003, enabling us to offer you holidays.

Financial Guarantee: ATRADIUS, 159 rue Anatole France-CS50118-92596 LEVALLOIS PERRET

Professional liability insurance: ALLIANZ IARD, 1 Cours Michelet-92076 PARIS LA DEFENSE.

Contract no. 086846 956

 

When you choose Air Touraine, you're opting for a certified travel agency that puts quality, safety and innovation at the heart of its services. Let us convince you of our proven expertise, and enjoy exceptional travel experiences with complete peace of mind.