Have you ever wanted to soar across the sky in a hot air balloon? Let us tell you it is an AMAZING experience! We were able to check this off of our bucket list with A Grape Escape in the Temecula Wine Country! Not only did we cheers to a new partner but they provided the best service and a lifetime experience. A Grape Escape is exclusive to Temecula, offering sunrise balloon rides in the beautiful Temecula Wine Country!
Imagine soaring in the beautiful blue sky as you experience peace and serenity while drifting over the vineyards as the sun rises over the mountains. Take flight with unparelleled views of lakes, citrus groves, wineries, and estate homes as you soar with the birds at the sight of a beautiful hot air balloon floating overhead.
A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure is a remarkable tour filled with beauty, excitement, serenity, and just pure adventure. They have been in business since 1991 and proudly fly ten colorful hot air balloons at two to fourteen passengers each based on a weight system. A Grape Escape Balloon Adventure is the official balloon ride operator for The Annual Temecula Valley Balloon and Wine Festival.
Our experience in the hot air balloon was incredible. When we first arrived, we were greeted at the Europa Village Winery. The grounds were beautiful. We were then taken to a shuttle to go to the launch site. At the launch site, we watched as they set up the balloon and prepared for flight. Upon entering the balloon, the staff took pictures of us and shared knowledge with us about the balloon. Our balloon we flew with was 210 cubic ft, and stood appoximately as high as a ten story building. Ricky explained to us that the reason they fly at sunrise and not later during the day is because the air is most cool, calm, and stable. Balloons fly based on the scientific principle that warm air rises in cool air. He also stated that when the balloon is inflated and the air is heated up, that is when the balloon will start to rise.
Our balloon then started rising up, and let us say, the views were breathtaking!
A Grape Escape has a perfect safety record and all pilots are FAA certified and hold a commercial pilot’s license. All balloons are wrapped with their company logo and they are licensed with the California PUC for transportaion of passengers.
Upon landing, we were shuttled back to Europa Winery where we toasted to champagne and given continental refreshments as well as a discount coupon to the winery for a two for one tasting.
 
We thought is was so kind of the company and beyond expectations to give a bottle of champagne to the couple sitting next to us that was celebrating their ten year anniversary as well as they made 3 birthday cakes and gave them to three different people that were celebrating their birthdays. The customer service with this company is top notch and it is an incredible experience!
The full tour includes the following:
- 60-75 minute morning scenic flight
- After flight celebration
- Chilled champagne and sparkling cider
- Light casual continental refreshments such as fruit and pastries
- Souvenir certificate of flight
- Discount card on wine tasting at Europa Village Winery
Know Before You Go:
Check in time for flight is at 6am!
Casual Dress- Ladies this means no high heels! Everyone is required to wear athletic shoes and long pants. Shorts are not allowed and no open-toed shoes.
Wearing white is not recommended and clothes and shoes may get dirty.
Cameras and video cameras are welcomed.
Cheers to a wonderful new partnership and thank you A Grape Escape for an amazing lifetime experience!
