Up, up and away
When I think about the perfect ways to explore Wales, there are several which spring to mind… I’d love to drive through the Brecon Beacons in a vintage convertible car. And I’d love to go sea-kayaking off the Pembrokeshire coast, discovering remote sandy beaches beside the rugged cliff faces. But one of my dreams is to take a hot air balloon ride over the mountains and valleys, soaring above villages, farms and dramatic scenery; probably with a glass or two of champagne!
This can be arranged with a company like Sky High Leisure (www.skyhighballoonflights.co.uk) to book a balloon flight over Wales as a special treat; they can launch balloon flights from Erddig Hall and Country Park in North Wales.
I also love the sound of the Hot Air Balloon Festival which takes place in Llangollen on September 5th and 6th this year. Around 25 hot air balloons will launch at the Royal International Pavilion arena, and the weekend will also include a craft fair, musical performances, falconry demonstrations and an indoor model balloon festival. Check out the website - www.hotairballoonfestival.co.uk – for more information. The festival’s nightglow looks like it will be particularly stunning with the balloons glowing in the night sky and a fireworks finale.
Here’s a video from previous shows: