Hot Air Balloons Over Rocamadour | A Magical Spectacle in the Lot

Hot Air Balloons Over Rocamadour: A Magical Spectacle in the Sky of the Lot

Every year, on the last weekend of September, the sky over Rocamadour is filled with dazzling colors as hot air balloons take flight. This extraordinary event brings together dozens of balloons from all over Europe, offering spectators a magical aerial ballet above one of the most beautiful villages in France.

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, a hot air balloon flight is the perfect opportunity to admire Rocamadour from a whole new perspective, floating peacefully at sunrise or sunset.

A Must-See Event in the Lot

📍 Best Spots to Watch the Hot Air Balloons in Rocamadour

✔ The castle viewpoint – A panoramic view of the balloons in flight.
✔ The Alzou Valley – Ideal for watching the balloons take off.
✔ The sanctuary forecourt – A magical setting to admire the spectacle.

The Montgolfiades have been held annually since 1986, attracting an ever-growing audience—whether aviation enthusiasts, photographers, or simply amazed visitors.

The setting of Rocamadour, this medieval city perched on a cliff, makes it one of the most spectacular places to watch hot air balloons in flight.

The event typically lasts two days, with several flight sessions:

Early in the morning, when the warm air gently rises with the wind, and the golden light enhances the landscapes.
In the late afternoon, when the sky glows with orange hues, creating a stunning contrast with the colorful balloons.

💡 Good to know: The spectacle is completely free for visitors, and several viewpoints allow you to fully enjoy this aerial ballet.

Why is Rocamadour the Perfect Location for This Event?

Rocamadour is one of the gems of the Lot region, classified among the Grands Sites of Occitanie and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Saint James' Way pilgrimage route.

With its picturesque alleys, sanctuaries clinging to the cliffside, and an impressive castle overlooking the valley, it provides the perfect setting for such a majestic spectacle.

🌄 The hot air balloons take off from the Alzou Valley, offering breathtaking views of unspoiled nature and the rolling landscapes of the Lot.

It’s a magical experience! Watching these colorful balloons float above Rocamadour at sunrise is an unforgettable moment.

Experience the Magic of a Hot Air Balloon Flight

Watching the spectacle from the ground is already a magical experience, but boarding a hot air balloon and soaring over the valley is truly unforgettable.

Several local companies offer hot air balloon flights, departing from various locations in the Lot region. Flights generally last between 45 minutes and 1.5 hours, allowing you to admire the Dordogne Valley, the cliffs of Quercy, and sometimes even the foothills of the Massif Central.

What to Expect During a Flight?

🎈 Careful Preparation: Before takeoff, the pilots and crew prepare the hot air balloon—a fascinating moment where you can watch the envelope inflate before ascending.

🎈 A Smooth Takeoff: Unlike other forms of air travel, a hot air balloon rises gradually, offering a sensation of lightness and absolute calm.

🎈 A Moment Suspended in Time: Once in the air, you’ll enjoy silence, broken only by the occasional sound of the burner, and a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding nature.

🎈 A Gentle Landing: Since the balloon's direction is dictated by the wind, landings usually take place in an open field, where a ground crew arrives to pick up the passengers.

It was incredible! Floating above the valleys and seeing the sunrise from such a height is an indescribable sensation.

And What About Camping Le Séquoia?

Camping Le Séquoia is open until September 14th, just before the Montgolfiades. But no worries! 🎈 If you wish to experience a hot air balloon flight during your stay, flights are available all year round in various locations across the Lot and Dordogne.

Where to Take a Hot Air Balloon Flight in Summer?

📍 The Loire Valley – Fly over the famous Châteaux of the Loire.
📍 The Marais Poitevin – Unique landscapes of canals and lush greenery.
📍 The Luberon – An unforgettable excursion over the mountains and vineyards.
📍 The Pyrenees – A breathtaking flight over snow-capped peaks.

If you stay at Camping Le Séquoia, we will be happy to help you organize this unique experience by recommending trusted local providers.

Practical Tips for Attending the Montgolfiades

If you plan to attend the Montgolfiades of Rocamadour, here are some tips to make the most of the event:

✔ Arrive early: Morning flights offer the most beautiful light, and the best viewing spots fill up quickly.
✔ Dress warmly: Even in September, mornings can be chilly.
✔ Bring binoculars and a camera 📸: To capture every magical moment.
✔ Check the weather forecast: Hot air balloon flights depend on weather conditions. Strong winds or unexpected rain may cause last-minute cancellations.
✔ Book your flight in advance: Demand is high, especially during peak season!

📩 How to book a flight?
You can book directly with local companies or ask for advice at the Camping Le Séquoia reception. We will be happy to direct you to our trusted partners.

An Unforgettable Experience from the Sky

Whether it’s your first hot air balloon flight over Périgord Noir, a balloon ride in the Natural Park of the Causses du Quercy, or a flight over the gorges and valleys of the Lot, this adventure promises unforgettable memories.

From the basket, let yourself be carried by this majestic ascent and admire breathtaking landscapes seen from the sky: lakes, vineyards, and even the volcanoes of Auvergne. At sunrise or sunset, the view is simply magical.

But Rocamadour and Quercy offer one of the most spectacular settings for a hot air balloon flight. Floating above this medieval town perched on a cliff, admiring its ancient sanctuary and the surrounding valleys is a unique experience, blending heritage and outdoor adventure. In the morning, mist drifting through the Alzou Valley adds a touch of mystery, while in the evening, the setting sun ignites the golden stone cliffs.

During the flight, carried by the warm air of the burners, you will feel a unique sense of freedom, with no engine noise, only the rhythm of the wind and the balloon. If you’re worried about heights, don’t be: the ascent is gradual and incredibly smooth.

Whether you choose a flight over an estuary, the wilderness, or the seaside, every destination offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Depending on the weather conditions, the balloon pilot will select the best route to ensure you have an extraordinary moment.

If you’re visiting the Lot region in September, don’t miss the Montgolfiades of Rocamadour! And if you dream of a flight over Quercy, several local companies offer hot air balloon rides all year round, allowing you to discover these landscapes from the sky.

A hot air balloon ride is also a perfect gift idea for a birthday, a surprise for Valentine’s Day, or simply to share a magical moment at high altitude. Why not extend the experience with a stay in a charming bed and breakfast, nestled in a natural haven, just a stone’s throw from the departure airfield?