1.Cappadocia, Turkey
Cappadocia (meaning the land of good-looking horses) was christened by the Persians due to rugged looking mountain ponies and striking green landscape of dramatic rocks and plunging canyons that appear even more magnificent from above. You’ll see incredible limestone pillars punctuated with churches and quirky dwellings. The view is gorgeous from down too no doubt, but it is elevated to a surreal experience when you catch glimpses of the region’s indescribable beauty from thousands of feet above. Cappadocia’s grandeur and magnificence of the region’s wilderness is best witnessed through a vantage point view of its surroundings on a hot air balloon ride.
2Loire Valley, France
Loire Valley is as French as it can get with its picturesque vineyards, quaint historic villages, splendid scenery and majestic-looking chateaus. Nestled in France’s southwestern region, the 175 mile stretch is dotted with stately manor homes and more than 800 stunning castles (the kind of which you’ll only find in story books now). Soar above the story book castles accompanied by massive and elegantly decorated gardens. Watch the Chateau de Chenonceau and the nearby river snake through verdant green landscapes – a sight your senses will register forever. Best time to visit –April to October, when its pleasant and castles are thrown open to the public.
3Yarra Valley, Australia
Yarra Valley is nothing short of drop dead gorgeous, with its varied wine ranges, unusual climate (terrifically pleasant, distinct topographical features and wine sprinkled rolling emerald hills. Diverse geographical conditions lead to the production of distinctly varied wines, each with its own unique flavor.
Fancy top notch sparkling wine such as Chardonnay or Pinot Noir? Fret no, it is here! Take a hot air balloon ride over the region to grab uninterrupted vistas of the Yarra River spanning through hills and seemingly endless vineyards. Spot a kangaroo hopping around the landscape or watch the sapphire hued peaks of Australia’s Great Divide call out to you.
Best time to visit – March to May when the grape leaves are at their resplendent fall best and you can participate in a plethora of harvest events. Cheers!
4Gstaad, Switzerland
Who doesn’t desire to witness the world famous Swiss Alps in a jewel blue sky backdrop? Float over the mountains to catch unbelievable views of charming, old-worldly Swiss chalets, quaint villages and other fantastic Berne region scenes. Come January, and the place transforms into a ballooner’s delight with the annual International Balloon Festivals. Hundreds of vivid balloons run across sky to fill Gstaad’s sky with an array of hues. Oh, and did we mention, land birds can enjoy skiing, hiking, biking and snowboarding, depending on the season.
