Guests of Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort already enjoy a full range of outdoor activities on the grounds of the estate, and starting March 1, 2010 when the hotel launches regular hot air balloon flights they can also experience the beauty of Adare Manor and South Ireland from the air.
The flights, which take-off directly from the grounds of Adare Manor, will be the only balloon flights to travel this far south in Ireland floating over the 840-acre Adare estate for aerial views of its French formal gardens, expansive grounds, and River Maigue. Where the balloon goes next is dependent on the wind direction that day and only known by the pilot, adding a decidedly exciting aspect to the adventure. The slow and steady speed of the flights allow for superb picture taking opportunities and breathtaking panoramic views of south Ireland’s lush green landscapes. The flights will usually land in a field up to 20 miles away from the take off point, where a bus will be waiting to transport passengers back to Adare Manor for the traditional champagne toast associated with hot air ballooning that dates back to the first flights. This truly unique perspective from above is an unforgettable way for couples, families, corporate groups, and wedding parties to experience Ireland.
The flights which last approximately one hour are priced at €240.00 per person and operated by Irish Balloon Flights, a company that’s been offering balloon flights throughout Ireland for over 20 years. The flights from Adare Manor will be offered one weekend per month, with two balloons operating simultaneously. The schedule includes two flights on Friday and Saturday evenings, three hours before sunset; and two flights on Saturday and Sunday mornings at dawn. Each hot air balloon can accommodate up to 12 passengers. The full schedule of flights will be published in March detailing the times and available spaces.
For passenger flights, the balloons we operate can take from 2 to 14 passengers, plus pilot. We can cater for groups of up to 30 passengers at a time.
Flights vouchers can either be purchased directly through Irish Balloon Flights on www.balloons.ie or o the telephone +353 46 948 3436. Once the booking has been made, a flight voucher pack will be posted to the purchaser. Alternatively we can post the voucher pack directly to the recipient along with a greeting card bearing your message. We will post the payment receipt to your address. E-vouchers, if requested, will be sent out the same day. Next day postal delivery (Swiftpost extra €10-00) also available - please specify. Vouchers can also be collected from Dublin and Trim, Co. Meath. Vouchers purchased for Northern Ireland can also be used in the South. All vouchers are valid for 12 months and will be extended Free of Charge into another season should the passenger have three flights postponed by us during the validity period of the voucher.
We always endeavour to fly passengers on their preferred date, but this can sometimes be difficult to achieve if the weather is not suitable on the day. Launch sites may be changed at short notice or on the day if wind direction dictates - this is always at the pilots' discretion. Balloon flights typically last for around an hour, but guests should allow 3 to 4 hours for the whole experience. After the balloon flight, a glass of celebratory champagne is provided. Passengers can then be driven back in our luxurious 4 wheel drive mini buses to the original meeting point, if required.
For full details on the flights, booking information and Terms & Conditions please visit www.balloons.ie or Telephone +353 46 948 3436
