If you’re considering a memorable way to start your day in the Brisbane area, a hot air balloon flight combined with a vineyard breakfast might just be the ticket. This tour offers a blend of stunning aerial vistas, expert-guided experiences, and a delightful breakfast with Champagne that’s hard to beat. While it’s not a cheap outing, it’s one that many travelers find worth every cent—if you’re into scenic adventures with a touch of luxury, this could be right up your alley.
What we particularly appreciate about this experience is how it manages to be relaxing and scenic at the same time. The 30-minute flight takes you over the lush forested valleys and vine-covered hills of Brisbane’s Scenic Rim, offering what many describe as breathtaking views. Plus, the fact that you get to help pack away the balloon upon landing adds a hands-on element that makes the whole event more engaging. However, keep in mind that the early start (4 am) might be a challenge if you’re not a morning person, and there’s no restroom on the balloon itself.
This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature, panoramic landscapes, and a bit of adventure, and it’s also well-suited for those wanting a romantic or special experience, like an anniversary or celebration. It’s especially perfect if you enjoy wine and good food, as the breakfast at a local vineyard paired with Champagne offers a satisfying way to cap off the flight. If heights aren’t your thing, you might want to weigh whether a 30-minute flight feels comfortable, but many reviews mention how surprisingly relaxing it is even for nervous flyers.
Key Points

- Stunning aerial views over Brisbane’s scenic landscape
- Hands-on experience helping with balloon packing
- Luxury breakfast with Champagne at a vineyard
- Comfortable round-trip transport from Nerang or Canungra
- Authentic winery visit with wine tasting included
- All fees and taxes covered, with digital photo pack and flight certificate
The Flight Experience: What to Expect
The adventure begins quite early, with pickup from Nerang or Canungra around 4:00 am. This might sound intense, but it’s necessary to catch the sunrise, which is often when the views are at their most spectacular. Once you’re on the bus, your guide—who is praised for their friendly and knowledgeable commentary—sets the tone for a relaxed yet exciting morning.
Upon arriving at the launch site, you’ll notice how the hot air balloon begins to take shape. The process of inflating the balloon is part of the fun, and many reviews highlight how engaging the crew is, making sure everyone feels involved. The actual 30-minute flight offers sweeping 360-degree views, with the landscape unfurling beneath you like a giant, living map. Many guests have described the experience as “relaxing” and “unforgettable,” often noting how peaceful and surreal it feels to float above the land.
Landing is smooth, and part of the charm is helping to pack away the balloon—an activity that keeps you connected to the flight rather than just a passive passenger. This hands-on element is a definite plus for those who like to get involved or want a sense of accomplishment afterward.
Planning more time in Gold Coast? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Vineyard Breakfast: A Delicious Finish

After tucking away the balloon, your guide will take you to the O’Reillys Canungra Valley Vineyards for a hot buffet breakfast paired with a glass of Champagne or bubbly. The breakfast is described as generous, with a continental buffet offering a variety of options to suit different tastes. This is a good chance to refuel after the early start and share stories with fellow travelers.
Many reviews, like one from Richardo S., praise this part of the experience as “relaxing” and “super friendly,” making it not just about the food but also the lovely atmosphere. The vineyard is a working one, so you get a glimpse of the wine-making process during the wine tasting included in the tour. With the wine tasting, you get to sample some local varieties, adding another layer of enjoyment to the morning.
The combination of the scenic flight and the vineyard breakfast creates a sense of indulgence that doesn’t feel over-the-top but just right for a special treat. It’s a solid value considering the included extras—digital photos, a commemorative certificate, and all taxes.
Transportation and Group Size

The tour provides comfortable, air-conditioned transport from Nerang or Canungra, eliminating the hassle of logistics. The group size is capped at 24 people, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. The limited group size helps ensure everyone gets attention and makes the experience feel more personal.
Pricing and Value

At around $355 per person, this experience isn’t inexpensive, but we think the value is fair given what’s included. You’re not only paying for the 30-minute flight, but also the breakfast, champagne, wine tasting, photos, and certificates—all of which add to the overall experience. Many guests find it a worthwhile splurge, especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want that once-in-a-lifetime feeling.
Practical Tips

- The early start means waking up at 4 am, so plan accordingly—getting a good night’s sleep beforehand helps.
- This tour is best suited for those who can safely get into the balloon basket unassisted.
- Children over 4 are permitted, but pregnant women cannot fly.
- There’s no restroom on the balloon, so use facilities beforehand.
- Weather can impact the flight; if canceled, you’ll get a different date or a full refund.
- Be prepared for a potentially cool morning, so dress in layers.
Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for couples, celebrating special occasions, or anyone looking to tick off a bucket list item. It’s also suitable for people who enjoy good food, wine, and beautiful scenery. If you’re nervous about heights, many reviews mention how surprisingly relaxing the ride can be, especially with expert pilots and a calm atmosphere. It’s less ideal if you dislike early mornings or have difficulty with physical activity (like climbing into the basket).
FAQ

How long is the hot air balloon flight?
The flight itself lasts about 30 minutes, offering plenty of time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the tour?
You get a hot air balloon flight, help with packing the balloon, a delicious hot buffet breakfast with Champagne, round-trip transport, wine tasting, a commemorative flight certificate, and a digital photo pack.
Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience. If you cancel earlier, you’ll get a full refund.
Is there an age limit?
Children aged 4 and over can participate, but they must be able to get into the balloon basket without assistance. Pregnant women are not permitted to fly.
What if the weather is poor?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins early in the morning at 4 am and ends back at your pickup point, after breakfast and wine tasting.
How large are the groups?
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal.
Is there a restroom on the balloon?
No—be sure to use facilities before the flight.
What’s the best way to prepare?
Dress in layers, be ready for an early start, and ensure you’re comfortable climbing into the basket.
Hot Air Balloon Flight Brisbane with Vineyard Breakfast
“It was all great. Robs commentary on the bus, the ride itself and even helping pack up. I'm nervous of heights but the balloon ride was one of th…”
Final Thoughts

This hot air balloon experience with vineyard breakfast offers a well-rounded blend of adventure, relaxation, and indulgence. If you’re after a chance to see Brisbane’s scenic landscape from above, enjoy a touch of luxury, and savor some local wine and food, it’s a solid choice. The consistently high reviews speak to how well-organized and memorable this tour tends to be, with many guests calling it “unforgettable” and a “highlight” of their trip.
While it’s not the cheapest option, the included extras—photos, wine tasting, breakfast—add significant value. It’s especially suitable for those celebrating something special or simply wanting to treat themselves to a truly memorable morning above the scenic rim. Just remember that the early start and weather dependency are factors to consider, but overall, this experience delivers on its promises.
Whether you’re flying solo, with a partner, or in a small group, this tour offers a beautiful perspective on Brisbane’s landscape with a satisfying breakfast to top it off. It’s a morning you’re unlikely to forget.
More Tour Reviews in Gold Coast
- Gold Coast: Snorkelling in Wave Break Island
- Gold Coast: Private Sunset Skippered Tour
- Gold Coast: Afternoon Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks
- Gold Coast: Tamborine Mountain Local Winery Tour with Lunch
- Surf Lesson on the Gold Coasts locals Favourite beach (Ages 14+)
- Gold Coast: 55-Minute Extreme Jet Boat Ride
More Gold Coast experiences we've covered
- Gold Coast: Private Sunset Skippered Tour
- Gold Coast: Afternoon Sailing Cruise incl food & drinks
- Gold Coast: Tamborine Mountain Local Winery Tour with Lunch
- Surf Lesson on the Gold Coasts locals Favourite beach (Ages 14+)
- Hot Air Balloon Flight Brisbane with Vineyard Breakfast
- Gold Coast: 55-Minute Extreme Jet Boat Ride
- Gold Coast and Wavebreak Island Cultural Small Group Cruise
- Gold Coast: Cook Island Marine Reserve Scuba Experience Dive
- Gold Coast Airport: Shared Transfer to Gold Coast Suburbs
- Coolangatta: Kids Group Surf Lesson Kirra, Gold Coast (-16)
- Astra Lumina Entry at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
- Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary General Entry Ticket
