Map coordinates: 43.1508,11.6526
We fly from an enchanted valley hidden below rural Montisi in Southern Tuscany; this is the real old Tuscany, a Tuscany as yet almost untouched by tourism with forests, vineyards and historical towns. From many years of experience we now know that the region around Montisi, with its access to both Le Crete di Senesi and La Val d’Orcia regions, truly offers the most spectacular balloon flights. This is our most popular site and also our main base.
- 62 reviews of Ballooning in Tuscany in Montisi
Directions to the launch site
Our Montisi launch site is located along the road between Montisi and Castelmuzio. It’s just below Montisi at the bottom of the valley before a small rusty bridge. Please note that the sign and the crew might not be on site until 15 minutes before the scheduled meeting time so if you are early, don’t panic, you are probably at the correct location waiting for us to arrive.
Backup Location
It is very unusual to have to use a backup site from Montisi but if we do, we will always meet in the usual place and provide transport to the backup site. After the flight we will bring everyone back to our meeting point in Montisi.
Toilets
Our launch site does not have toilet facilities; however, there is a public toilet in the centre of Montisi if you require it. Please ensure you have enough time before your flight. The toilet can be found by a small car park just off the main street (Via Umberto 1) in Montisi. It is easiest to find if approaching from the north (the road from Trequanda). Follow signs to the centre of the village and about 250 metres on the right, before a small café and almost opposite La Romita hotel & restaurant, you will find the car park. The toilet is around to the right.
Late Arrival
As with any commercial flight, if you miss your flight no refund will be due and if you think you are going to be late there is unfortunately no way to contact the pilot in the morning. The mobile phone signal is not good at the launch site in the Montisi valley and after the balloon is inflated, about 20-30 minutes after the meeting time, it will not be possible to delay the launch. If you miss your flight we would try to fit you in to a flight one of the following mornings, subject to available spaces.
Accommodation & Additional Activities
If you are travelling a long distance we would recommend arranging to stay in the Montisi area to make things easier. We would recommend La Romita hotel and restaurant in the centre of Montisi and you can also find other places to stay and things to do at the Montisi website www.montisi.com . Please mention Ballooning in Tuscany when you book.
Private Tours
You can also combine your balloon ride in Tuscany with a private tour organised by Antonella Piredda a licensed local guide for Siena and its province. Antonella offers a range of guided tours designed to perfectly follow your morning balloon flight including visits to nearby towns such as Pienza, Montalcino or Montepulciano or other fascinating places of interest such as the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, the Abbey of Sant’Antimo or Sant’Anna in Camprena where the movie The English Patient was filmed. Wine tasting, cheese tasting or olive oil tasting can also be included. Tours last 3 or 5 hours and include Antonella as your guide (English, Italian & Spanish speaking) and transportation.
Visit Antonella’s website www.antonellapiredda.com for more information or call her on +39 0577 845142 or +39 347 4565150.
