Up, up and away

There is something quite magical about a hot air balloon floating majestically across the sky. But they are always frustratingly far away, the opportunity to get up close to one of these silent giants is relatively rare. Unless you live close to the Rhine. In June and August residents of Bonn, Düsseldorf and Cologne will have the unique opportunity to see hot air balloons up close, on the ground, up in the air and even take a ride in one, for around €170. In Bonn the 2010 Ballonfest takes place from Friday 11th to Sunday 13th June. You can watch as the balloons inflate and take off, and in the evening see the gorgeous spectacle of over 40 hot air balloons lined along the banks of the Rhine. You can even climb in the basket and experience a once in a life time ride and see the city from a completely new perspective. If you can't get to Bonn you can experience the magic of hot air ballooning in Düsseldorf on the 18th-20th June or in Cologne on the 20th August.

Bonn Ballonfest
Düsseldorf Ballon Festival
Cologne Ballon Festival