For a majestic, less physically demanding way to see Israel, from above try a hot air balloon. From 500 meters far above the land, standing in a basket, the romanticism of flying in a hot air balloon is uniquely infectious. Hot air balloons in Israel are increasingly popular with Israelis and tourists alike and take place in both the Galilee and Negev regions, with some of the most breathtaking rides taking you high above the Galilee hills in the Mount Gilboa area.

Image via Flickr user ronni and shai

Hot air ballooning is a beautiful and peaceful experience, drifiting calmly along with the winds, and ascending almost naturally in a machine which appears almost to defy the laws of gravity. Balloons tend to be controlled largely by the wind, with the pilot controlling the altitude and floating the balloon in a direction in which it will pick up the right air current.

In the north of Israel hot air balloons provide breathtaking views across the green land, the hills and valleys, the pretty little villages, moshavim and kibbutzim which adorn the land, and the sites of history, the Bible, and modern activity.

Image via Flickr user niralon

Hot air balloon flights can last anywhere between 45 minutes and 90 minutes and the length is largely dependent on the wind conditions. Flights cost in the region of 1,000-1,200 NIS per person, although different operators have different packages, and some include the champagne landings that have become characteristic of this unique pursuit, or other meals after landing in the price.

Hot Air Balloon Operators

• Rize, which flies in the North, call 077-450-0282 or surf to www.rize.co.il.
• Overisrael, flies in the South, call 057-290-0007, or visit www.overisrael.co.il.
• Touch the Sky flies in the North and the South: 054-476-1704, www.hotairballoon.co.il.