You start a Wednesday like any other: you have your morning coffee or tea, head off to work, go for a workout, and carry on with your usual routine. But there is something special about that day. It feels different. There is a certain sense of anticipation in the air.

And no wonder.

That Wednesday, August 12, will mark a historic event for Spaniards, residents, and all those visitors travelling to our country to witness it: the 2026 total solar eclipse.

It is a phenomenon Spain has been waiting decades to experience. The last total eclipse visible from Spanish territory took place on October 2, 1959, in Gran Canaria and, if we are talking about mainland Spain, we have to go even further back: to August 30, 1905, when the path of totality crossed Burgos and other surrounding areas.

But if anyone was especially excited for the arrival of that day, it was the Boreal family.

Javier Tarno and Fermín Peluffo, balloon pilots, were not going to settle for watching the sky from the ground. They were going to experience it, quite literally, from above.

“Feet, what do I need you for when I have a balloon to fly?”
— inspired by Frida Kahlo

From the 2019 Solar Eclipse in Argentina to the 2026 Eclipse in Segovia

And this is where the story gets even more interesting.

Fermín, who comes from Argentina, already knows what it is like to experience an eclipse surrounded by hot air balloons. In 2019, he was there for the total solar eclipse that darkened parts of the Pacific Ocean, Chile, and Argentina as the sun was setting.

He often tells us the story of how he was part of the chase crew — what we call the ground crew in the ballooning world — during the Argentina Eclipse Balloon Experience.

The event reached its highlight in Villa de Merlo, San Luis, where 25 balloons from different parts of the world came together to experience that very special moment.

On that occasion, Fermín watched the eclipse with his feet firmly on the ground.

This time, seven years later, the story was going to be different.

“Seeing it from the sky this time was a dream come true. In a way, it felt like a second chance after what I experienced seven years ago,” Fermín tells us.

When Day Turned into Night

Photo taken from the hot air balloon. 2026 Solar Eclipse.

As the afternoon arrives, preparations begin. And there was Javier Tarno, the boss — although by now we could almost call him the patriarch of the Boreal family. Now retired and 70 years old, but make no mistake: after a lifetime spent around balloons, there is no keeping him out of one, and he certainly wasn’t going to miss a moment like this.

At around 7:00 p.m., we arrived at our usual launch site in Segovia. Some spectators had already gathered there to witness the eclipse, while many others were finding their own spot around the city: the City Walls, the Cathedral, the Alcázar and countless other corners of Segovia became impromptu viewpoints towards the sky.

At around 8:00 p.m., we took off alongside another balloon. Little by little, we climbed until we reached 1,200 metres, as the light began to change and the moment we had all been waiting for drew closer.

And then it happened.

During totality, the temperature dropped slightly, a gentle breeze could be felt and, for a few moments, everything seemed to stand still. Silence fell.

While thousands of eyes across Segovia were turned towards the sky, Javier and Fermín watched from the basket of a hot air balloon as day turned into night and the Moon’s shadow swept across the landscape.

And, by the way, while all of this was happening in Segovia, a few kilometres further north, another member of the family was up in the air.

As a curious side note, Daniel Tarno also witnessed the phenomenon from a balloon over León, where he had been hired to fly that day by the Catalan ballooning company Kontiki. After all, in a family of balloon pilots, perhaps the unusual thing would have been to find both of them on the ground.

“It was a great privilege to experience it, not only from the air, but also to share it with everyone watching from the ground. After all, it is a universal phenomenon, something that transcends us all. For a few moments, it felt like a pause the universe had given us from the constant rush of everyday life,” the team tells us.

Once Is Not Enough: Upcoming Solar Eclipses in Spain

They say that when you give people the chance to experience something extraordinary, they inevitably want more.

And moments like this seem to have exactly that effect.

That day had barely come to an end when we were already coming across articles, calendars and questions about when the next solar eclipse in Spain will take place.

And the interesting thing is, we won’t have to wait too long.

After the total eclipse on August 12, 2026, Spain will once again become a privileged location for astronomical observation with the solar eclipse on August 2, 2027, which will also be total and will be especially visible from the south of the country. And one year later, on January 26, 2028, another eclipse will be visible from Spain — this time, an annular eclipse.

It seems the sky still has a few more dates in store for us.

In the meantime, we are left with the memories, the stories and, fortunately, the images from that day. Some were taken from our basket, while others were sent to us by people who experienced it from the ground.

And among them is one of those photographs that looks as though it had been carefully planned, but could only happen once: the silhouette of a hot air balloon crossing in front of the eclipse.

And although we came back down to earth that day, part of that moment stayed up there. Because some flights end when you land, while others, somehow, stay with you.

Photograph by pedro_mad23: ver aquí

At Globos Boreal, we’re fortunate to fly almost all year round thanks to the area’s favourable weather conditions. Even so, there’s something special about the summer months. The city comes alive with visitors, the longer days invite you outdoors, and more and more people start searching for things to do in Segovia during their holidays.

Among all those experiences, one never goes unnoticed: a hot air balloon flight.

When we talk to our passengers, many tell us they found us after searching for “things to do in Segovia” or “hot air balloon ride in Segovia.” And honestly, we’re not surprised. Few experiences allow you to discover a UNESCO World Heritage city from such a unique perspective.

Sunrise over Segovia during the 2021 Hot Air Balloon Festival

Summer is the perfect season for new experiences.

Every morning, before the city is fully awake, our launch field begins to come to life.

Passengers arrive excited, dressed comfortably (and often in their favourite outfits), cameras in hand and ready for the adventure ahead. Some travel from abroad, while others come from different parts of Spain. But they all have one thing in common: the excitement of watching a giant balloon slowly come to life right in front of them.

And yes… you’ll have to wake up early. We won’t pretend otherwise. But we can tell you this: we’ve never met anyone who, after landing, wished they’d stayed in bed. Sunrise is the safest and most beautiful time to fly, and when you see the first rays of sunlight lighting up the Aqueduct, the Cathedral and the Alcázar, you’ll understand why the early start is so worth it.

Watching the balloon being inflated is part of the experience itself. As the colours begin to fill the sky and the sun slowly rises over the city, there’s a moment that simply has to be experienced to be understood.

Then comes the silence. Only the sound of the burner breaks the calm as Segovia stretches out beneath your feet.

It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

The Segovia Hot Air Balloon Festival: Three Days When the Sky Fills with Colour

If there’s one date that hot air balloon enthusiasts look forward to every year, it’s the Segovia Hot Air Balloon Festival. Held every July, it transforms the city into one of the most spectacular ballooning destinations in Spain.

For three days, dozens of balloons take off at sunrise from the same launch field, while pilots from different countries compete in a variety of ballooning challenges and competitions.

But the festival is much more than the morning flights. Visitors can also enjoy family-friendly activities, afternoon competitions, live music, and a lively atmosphere that fills Segovia with balloon lovers and visitors from all over.

This year, the festival will take place on 17, 18 and 19 July, offering the perfect opportunity to experience Segovia from the sky, or simply enjoy the spectacle from the ground.

Passenger with the hot air balloons before takeoff.

For us, every weekend feels like a festival.

Although the Segovia Hot Air Balloon Festival only lasts a few days, at Globos Boreal we like to say that every weekend feels like a little festival.

Throughout the season, our balloons take off at sunrise, offering the same sense of freedom that captures the hearts of first-time passengers. You don’t have to wait until July to see a sky filled with colourful balloons. Any weekend, you can experience the excitement of takeoff, enjoy breathtaking views over Segovia, and create memories that will stay with you for years to come.

If you’ve already pictured yourself up there while reading this, maybe it’s time to start planning your flight. The Segovia Hot Air Balloon Festival is one of the busiest weekends of the year, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your place.

Once your flight is booked, we’ll take care of everything else. Before your experience, we’ll send you all the information you need so that all you have to do is relax and enjoy the adventure.

⭐ Book your hot air balloon flight in Segovia here: Hot Air Balloon Ride in Segovia⭐

See you in the sky!

The Segovia Hot Air Balloon Festival only lasts a few days, but the joy of flying stays with us throughout the entire season.

Every sunrise is different. The light changes, the colours of the landscape change, and so do the people who step into the basket. But one thing always remains the same: the smiles after landing and the feeling of having experienced a morning unlike any other.

We hope this summer you’ll be the one discovering Segovia from the sky.

We can’t wait to welcome you on board!

View of Segovia’s Alcázar and Cathedral during the Hot Air Balloon Festival. Photo by Jaime Ollero.

Hot Air Balloon Flights in Segovia: A Unique Experience from the Air

Riding in a hot air balloon is unlike any other kind of flight. The takeoff is smooth and gradual, and within minutes you find yourself observing the landscape from a completely new perspective, in silence and moving with the rhythm of the wind. Every flight is different, and what begins as a one-time experience can open the door to a much wider world: training, competitions, or even a new passion.

For many, it remains a unique memory. But others feel the curiosity to go one step further.

That’s where Globos Boreal comes in as a hot air balloon pilot school, guiding those who decide to turn that first experience into something more.

That was the case for Manuel, from Seville, who took his first flight in July 2022 in Aznalcóllar (Seville) as a passenger… and ended up taking the leap into training and piloting.

And also Fermín, who came from Argentina with the same curiosity: to discover what lies beyond the experience and learn to fly on his own.

From Passenger to Pilot: Real Stories That Begin in the Air

Each student arrives by a different path. Some discover the world of hot air balloons almost by chance. Others spend years searching for it. And there are also those who have it in their blood, as part of their environment or family tradition. But they all share something in common: that moment when they decide they don’t want to remain just passengers.

Manuel: when one experience sparks an idea

Manuel had no previous experience in the world of balloons. His story began like many others: with a single flight.

It was in July 2022, in Aznalcóllar (Seville). A one-time experience that, unexpectedly, changed the way he saw things.

“I loved the experience, and spontaneously the idea came to me that maybe I could pilot a balloon like that one…”

What started as simple curiosity began to take shape. Manuel started researching, looking for options… until he found Globos Boreal.

“I was searching online for hot air balloon pilot schools, and Boreal’s website was the one that caught my attention the most and gave me the most confidence.”

From the outside, it may seem easy, but he is clear about it:

“Yes, it’s difficult. You not only have to acquire technical knowledge, but also develop flight skills and take on the responsibility that comes with it.”

Even so, something outweighs the difficulty:

“I love the experience of flying in a balloon, and it offers me a professional opportunity that I personally value.”

Fermín: Crossing an Ocean to Fulfill a Dream

Fermín’s story begins in 2018, in Merlo (Argentina), when he took his first hot air balloon flight as part of the “Flying High for Kids” project, an initiative that traveled around the world and, during its visit to the country, introduced him to this way of flying.

But for him, it was more than just a one-time experience.

“The connection with nature, the calm, teamwork, freedom… these are some of the perfect ingredients for happiness, and hot air ballooning undoubtedly brings them all together.”

That feeling marked a turning point. Over time, he decided to take the next step and train as a pilot, starting a journey that would take him far from home.

His connection with Globos Boreal came through a French pilot, a mutual friend, who encouraged him to make the leap.

“Today, Boreal is my ballooning family.”

For Fermín, becoming a pilot goes far beyond the technical side:

“More than ‘difficult,’ it’s a decision. It’s a constant learning process to develop composure and confidence in decision-making.”

He even describes it as a philosophy:

“It’s a way of life where it’s important to live fully in the present, remember what has been done in the past, and anticipate what will happen in the future.”

His motivation is clear and deeply personal:

“To fulfill my lifelong dream: to fly when I’m not drawing.”

Two different stories, two very different paths.
But one thing in common: taking the step.

Because becoming a hot air balloon pilot doesn’t begin in the air… it begins with a decision.

What Training Is Like: What You Need and How Long It Takes

Drawing of a hot air balloon basket by Fermín Peluffo, Globos Boreal student and illustrator.

Taking the step from passenger to pilot is not as far off as many people imagine. Becoming a hot air balloon pilot is an accessible process, but it requires commitment, consistency, and, above all, a passion for flying.

At Globos Boreal, as a hot air balloon pilot school, we guide each student along that path, adapting the training to their pace and previous experience.

In Spain, the training is regulated and combines two fundamental parts: theory and practice.

On the one hand, there is the theoretical part, where students acquire the knowledge needed to fly safely:

• Meteorology (essential for understanding the wind and making decisions)
• Air navigation
• Regulations and aviation law
• Balloon operation and maintenance

But where the real magic begins is in the practical side.

The training includes real flight hours, where students actively take part in the entire process: from assembling the balloon to takeoff, navigation, and landing. It’s not just about flying, but about learning to interpret the environment at every moment.

As for the time required, there is no single fixed answer. It depends on each person’s availability and pace, but typically the process is completed over several months, combining progressive training with real flight experience.

Many students start with no previous experience at all. The only thing truly needed is the desire to learn and respect the environment in which you fly.

And it’s during this process that something interesting happens: what begins as curiosity gradually turns into knowledge… and knowledge into confidence.

Take the Step: Your First Flight Starts Here

All stories have one thing in common: a first flight.

Sometimes it’s a gift, other times a long-awaited experience, or simply something that happens without much planning. But in many cases, that moment marks the beginning of something bigger.

Because flying in a hot air balloon is not just an activity. It’s a different way of understanding time, your surroundings, and yourself.

Some keep it as a memory.
Others, like Manuel or Fermín, decide to go further.

And, interestingly, there are even those who take the step without ever having flown before.

When that happens and people ask us, we always recommend the same: come and fly first, experience it from the inside, and if you decide to continue, that flight will be deducted from the training course.

If you’ve ever felt that curiosity, if you’ve wondered what it would be like to be on the other side, to make decisions in the air or to be part of a flight team… this might be your moment.

No previous experience is needed. Just the desire to learn, to live something different, and to let yourself be carried —at first— by the wind.

The rest can be learned.

And if you’re ready to take that first step, we’ll be happy to guide you along the way.

]]> https://globosboreal.com/en/corporate-events-in-spain-unique-hot-air-balloon-experiences-for-companies Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:13:15 +0000 https://globosboreal.com/?p=8467 Last Tuesday, March 17, the skies over Segovia offered a sight that surprised many: 13 hot air balloons flying over the city at the same time, moving together in a colorful aerial choreography across the landscape.

Behind this scene was a corporate event organized by Globos Boreal, with more than 150 people from the same company taking part. The goal was clear: to step away from the routine of traditional business meetings and share a truly memorable experience.

The day began at sunrise at the launch field. Upon arrival, participants were welcomed with a coffee service while they watched the balloons gradually inflate. Little by little, a sense of anticipation filled the atmosphere, conversations among colleagues, photos of the process, and groups being organized before boarding.

It’s a moment that always amazes: watching the massive envelopes rise from the ground until they become fully formed balloons ready to fly. In this case, with thirteen aircraft preparing at the same time, the scene felt even more special.

Original Corporate Events: How to Transform a Meeting into an Experience

More and more companies are looking for different ways to bring their teams together. While traditional meetings are still necessary, many organizations want these gatherings to also inspire, connect, and be remembered.

In this context, hot air balloon flights have become an increasingly popular choice for original corporate events. Not only because of how spectacular it is to see multiple balloons flying over the landscape, but also because it completely transforms the way a corporate event is experienced.

Although it may seem like a novel idea, this type of experience has been part of corporate programs for years. Globos Boreal has organized flights for large groups and companies such as Aquarius, who have trusted this activity to offer something out of the ordinary.

Globos Boreal, 2012

One of the key elements is the setting. Everything takes place outdoors, in a wide open space that encourages people to disconnect from the usual pace of work.

In addition, a hot air balloon flight offers something quite unique: it is both exciting and relaxing at the same time. It conveys a strong sense of safety thanks to careful planning, experienced pilots, and seamless team coordination, especially important for corporate events with large groups.

But perhaps the greatest value lies in what happens afterward. Unlike many corporate activities, a hot air balloon flight becomes a shared memory, an experience that teams continue to talk about and relive long after landing.

Benefits of Hot Air Balloon Flights for Companies: Emotional Impact and Exclusivity

There are activities that work well within a corporate program, and others that leave a lasting impression. A hot air balloon flight for companies clearly belongs to the latter.

Part of its strength lies in the emotional impact it creates. From the moment participants see the balloons being prepared to the instant the basket gently lifts off the ground, the experience sparks a sense of surprise, admiration, and excitement. It’s not just an activity, but a way to break away from routine and create shared memories within the team.

Added to this is the element of exclusivity. It’s not an everyday experience, nor something most people have done many times. That’s precisely why, when a company organizes an event like this, it is offering something truly special.

Moreover, when several balloons take off at the same time, the visual impact is multiplied. Seeing an entire group flying simultaneously creates a powerful image that conveys coordination and a sense of a unique, one of a kind event.

Hot Air Balloon Event Planning: Logistics, Safety, and Coordination

Behind an experience like this is a team that takes care of every detail. It involves days of planning, adapting the experience to reflect what each company aims to convey.

Pilots continuously monitor weather conditions to ensure the best possible flying environment. At the same time, the ground crew coordinates all logistics: support vehicles, passenger organization, balloon preparation, and assistance throughout the event.

The result is a carefully designed experience where participants can simply focus on enjoying a safe and well-organized hot air balloon event.

It allows teams to step away from routine, encourages connection among colleagues, and offers a different perspective, both literally and symbolically. Its exclusive nature and careful organization ensure a unique, safe corporate experience tailored to the group’s objectives.

That’s why companies from a wide range of industries trust this type of team building activity: because a hot air balloon experience goes far beyond a simple meeting, strengthening team cohesion and leaving a lasting impression long after landing.

If you are looking to organize a corporate event anywhere in Spain or offer your team a truly original experience, a hot air balloon flight is an option that combines impact, emotion, and professional execution.
Get in touch with our team and we will design a tailored experience for your company.

The story of Globos Boreal began long before the first flight. It started in 1975, when two travelers, Javier Tarno and Paloma Trapero, crossed paths at exactly the right moment. From the very beginning, what united them was their shared love of traveling and discovering the world.

They had barely known each other when they decided to set off on their first adventure together, hitchhiking to England through Holland, taking whatever jobs they could find, washing dishes, learning English, surviving on very little, for several months.

It wasn’t tourism. It was exploration.

Between 1978 and 1980, they embarked on two major journeys to India and Southeast Asia, each lasting six months.

The first time, they traveled overland along the legendary hippie trail from Madrid to India. Forty days crossing countries by train and local buses, sleeping wherever they could, learning as they went.

At that time, almost no one around them was doing anything like that.
Their friends were amazed.
Their families were worried.

But that way of traveling — slow, authentic, and bold — would later define the way they would create experiences.

FROM TRAVELERS TO PIONEERS OF THE SKY

Becoming a hot air balloon pilot was only the beginning. The real challenge came afterward.

The hardest part was not learning how to fly. It was finding the money to buy their own balloon. Without a balloon, there were no flights. And without flights, there was no project.

In July 1982, the same year Javier earned his pilot’s license, Spain hosted the FIFA World Cup. Javier and Paloma worked in the event’s organization. It was an intense but strategic opportunity: they managed to save the first capital needed to start building something of their own.

Their first professional job came in August 1982. The Aurrezki Kutxa Municipala hired them for an advertising campaign in Donostia, thanks to the contact of José Antonio Cantalapiedra, a balloon pilot who had previously worked with the agency responsible for the campaign.

For 40 days, they flew almost daily. They took off from emblematic locations such as La Concha beach and the Alderdi Eder gardens, and also carried out flights in different towns across Guipúzcoa, including Eibar, Andoain, and Vergara. These were not tourist flights, but aerial advertising operations, and they became their true professional training ground: logistics, team management, client relations, and constant adaptability.

After the advertising campaign ended, they took the decisive step. With the savings they had accumulated and a small additional loan, they purchased that same balloon. They also bought a second-hand car, essential for transporting the equipment.

Throughout the 1980s, Javier flew as an independent pilot, building experience and reputation within the industry. Until in 1990, they decided to formalize everything that had been growing for years.

That year, Globos Boreal was officially founded. They rented a small office in what had once been the former doorman’s lodge of the building where they lived, in La Prospe. From that modest space, a company began to take shape — one built step by step: first as an adventure, then as a profession, and finally as a business project.

FOUR DECADES LATER: A CONVERSATION WITH THE FOUNDERS

More than forty years have passed since that first professional flight, and although they have flown thousands of kilometers since then, Javier and Paloma still remember every takeoff as if it were the first: the nerves, the laughter, the close calls, and the excitement of discovering that the sky could also become a workplace.

Today, between memories and anecdotes, we asked them a few questions to find out what they would do the same way… and what would make them say, “I can’t believe we did that!” if they could go back to those early days.

Did you ever imagine the project would last this long?

“This year marks 44 years since our first professional job, and back then we couldn’t imagine the project would last this long. In between, we had two children, and we had to balance raising them with office work and flights, in an activity that is a bit like life on the road — no free weekends, no conventional holidays.

We didn’t know if we would be able to ‘live off the air.’ We took the risk… and here we are, with our children continuing the family tradition.”

If you compare that first job with today’s flights, what has changed?

“If we compare our first job with today’s flights, almost everything has changed — mostly for the better.

In terms of flying, there is now a huge amount of accessible weather information, which makes operations much safer and easier to manage.

In an activity where you never know exactly where you will land, having good recovery vehicles makes a big difference.

In our early flights, communication was very limited. We didn’t carry mobile phones or radios. We had to trust the intuition of the chase crew or find a phone to call our rescue contact. Later, we started using 2-meter radios, but most of the time we would lose signal due to traffic, mountains, and other obstacles… and we would once again have to look for a phone to call that famous rescue number.

Despite all those limitations, the experience we gained became an invaluable learning process, which we later passed on to the next generation of pilots in our School — many of whom are still flying today, especially in central Spain.

At the same time, we began repairing our own balloons and eventually created a maintenance workshop.

As for office work, in the early days everything was analog: typewriter, landline phone, fax. Then came the mobile phone, the computer, and the internet with the creation of our first website. Later, fully entering the digital era and social media made management, flight organization, and administrative processes much more efficient — especially when dealing with authorities.”

What would you say to your younger selves back then?

“How young we were 😂😂”

Flying Today with Globos Boreal: A Spirit That Remains Intact

Thirty years after those first hot air balloon flights, Globos Boreal continues to fly with the same passion and enthusiasm that Javier and Paloma poured into their very first balloon. The experience has evolved: greater safety, improved equipment, and carefully designed routes to enjoy every moment.

Yet some things have not changed: the thrill of takeoff, the feeling of freedom while floating above Segovia — our most recommended area and main base of operations — and that spirit of adventure born from early travels, first professional flights, and every lesson learned along the way.

Every hot air balloon flight is a story, and every passenger becomes part of it. At Globos Boreal, you don’t simply fly: you live a hot air balloon experience that combines years of expertise, professionalism, and a genuine passion for flying.

Feeling afraid when we’re about to try something new isn’t unusual; it’s very common. We accept fear as part of being alive. So no, you’re not overreacting if you’re afraid of flying in a hot air balloon.
In fact, many times we’re not afraid of the height, but of the unknown.

When we talk to our passengers, whether at the time of booking or just before the flight, we always tell them the same thing: ballooning is one of the calmest activities you can do in the air.
Don’t imagine something like skydiving or getting into a small airplane. Flying in a balloon is something else. It’s a moment to admire, to feel the silence, to enjoy and simply… float.

“But I have vertigo”

This is usually the first concern we hear from many future passengers. And here’s something important: vertigo happens when you are connected to the ground — on a tall building, a cliff, or a bridge.
In a hot air balloon, that sensation disappears.

In fact, sometimes we think you could take off with your eyes closed and not even notice you’re already flying. Have you ever taken off in an airplane and felt that strange drop in your stomach? In a balloon, that sensation simply doesn’t exist.
So if we start with the takeoff, you can relax.

And if you still board with a bit of fear, that’s okay. Because as soon as the first panoramic views appear — especially in places like Segovia, where we fly — fear stops having room. A simple trick: don’t look down, look toward the horizon. When so much beauty comes in, fear stays below.

Want to hear a secret?
One of our pilots suffers from vertigo. He can’t walk across the bridge in Cuenca… and yet there he is, flying every day wherever the wind takes him. 🤭

“THE BURNER IS VERY NOISY”

Another trigger we’ve noticed is the sound of the burner. If someone ever invents completely silent burners, we’ll be the first to buy them. 😉

We know it can feel a bit intrusive, but we believe that flame is precisely what gives this activity its magic — and its physics. Can you imagine the amazement of the first people who discovered that heat could lift such large objects?

Speaking of physics, so you never go to bed without learning something new, here’s a simple explanation.

It all starts with a principle discovered by Archimedes more than two thousand years ago: an object floats when it weighs less than the medium surrounding it.
In the case of a hot air balloon, that medium is air.

When we heat the air inside the balloon, it becomes lighter than the cold air outside. And the colder, heavier air pushes the warm air upward. That’s how, without engines or sudden acceleration, the balloon rises smoothly and naturally.

In fact, this same idea was what inspired the Montgolfier brothers in 1783 when they observed that smoke always rises. Thanks to that simple observation, the first hot air balloon was born — and with it, one of the calmest and most poetic ways of flying that exists.

WHEN FEAR GETS INTO THE BASKET (AND STAYS ON THE GROUND AT TAKEOFF)

Over these 44 years of flying, we’ve shared our basket with thousands of people. And yes, sometimes we’ve met passengers who, once there, suddenly feel like backing out.

I especially remember one passenger who came to fly with her son. They were visiting from Mexico on holiday, with that lovely attitude of wanting to make the most of everything. When I welcomed them, she was very excited: we took some photos, she asked constant questions… where we would land, how long the flight would last, what this was, what that was. She had curiosity, enthusiasm, and a smile that said it all.

But when the moment came to board, I counted the passengers… and one was missing. It was her.

I saw she was nervous. Every time the burner sounded, she stepped back. She looked at me and said:
— I’m scared of the burner.

I approached her calmly, in a friendly way, and said:
— You can’t do this to us, we’re counting on you. If you stay on the ground while your son flies, you’ll regret not sharing it together — especially being right at the door of the experience.

Between my words and the encouragement of the other passengers, she decided to get in. I tried to place her as far from the burner as possible, and we took off.

When the flight ended, I approached her and asked:
— How was it?

With a huge smile she replied:
— It was beautiful. I loved it.

All I could say was:
— I told you it would be worth it.

“Do it, and if you’re afraid, do it afraid.”

There’s a saying: “Do it, and if you’re afraid, do it afraid.” And maybe that’s a good philosophy for life. Not staying stuck with regret. Daring. Understanding that we’re not here to control everything, but to experience, to live, and then to tell the story.

And many times, just on the other side of fear, that’s where the memories that truly matter begin.

DON’T LET FEAR STOP YOU — LET IT PUSH YOU TO FLY

Not everyone flies without fear. And that’s okay.
Fear doesn’t always disappear before stepping into the basket; sometimes it fades once you’re already in the air, when the landscape opens up, when silence takes its place and you realise nothing bad is happening… except something beautiful.

At Globos Boreal, we don’t promise the absence of fear. We promise to accompany you. To listen. To give you your time. And to show you, from above, that often the unknown is just a door you haven’t crossed yet.

And if one day you decide to do it, with fear or without it, we’ll be here.
Because some experiences can’t fully be explained. They have to be lived.

]]> https://globosboreal.com/en/2025-a-year-to-remember Wed, 04 Feb 2026 11:27:24 +0000 https://globosboreal.com/?p=8361 There are years that fly by, and others that linger in memory, like a balloon floating in the early morning light. We can say that 2025 has undoubtedly been one of those unforgettable years. A year of shared skies, of emotional silences a thousand meters above the ground, and of many stories that began—or were transformed—during a balloon flight.

From the first sunrises in Segovia, our home and point of departure, to the green, mystical landscapes of the Ribeira Sacra in Galicia, passing through the historic power of Toledo, this year Globos Boreal has flown higher than ever before. Not only in kilometers traveled, but in emotions experienced.

Segovia is the main setting for many of our flights. Watching the sun wake up the Alcázar, seeing the fog slowly lift from the fields, and noticing how passengers fall silent during the first minutes of flight remain some of those truly unforgettable moments.

In 2025, hundreds of people experienced their first hot-air balloon flight in Segovia with us. Some arrived feeling nervous; others, simply curious. But one thing is certain: everyone landed with the same feeling — that they had lived something special. Because flying in a hot-air balloon is not just about flying; it’s about pausing time, seeing the world differently, and letting yourself drift.

Galicia, Toledo, Valladolid, León: other skies we’ve flown through

The Ribeira Sacra welcomed us in summer with its winding rivers, dramatic vineyards, and a sense of calm that is hard to put into words. Flying there felt almost like an exercise in contemplation: nature in its purest form, deep silence, and a very special connection with the surroundings.

Toledo, on the other hand, gifted us flights filled with history. Flying over a city that has long been a crossroads of cultures, observing its layout from the air, and hearing passengers’ reactions as they recognized monuments from the sky was, for the entire team, deeply moving.

Valladolid, León, Zaragoza… we also had the chance to fly over their skies. Each place taught us something new and reinforced an idea that has been with us from the very beginning: no two flights are the same, because no two landscapes—and no two people—are alike.

2025 was also a year to celebrate ballooning as both an event and a meeting point. Part of the Globos Boreal team had the privilege of taking part in several balloon festivals, including the Ibiza Balloon Festival, in its very first edition. Another important event was the Guadix festival, followed by Segovia—an absolute classic—and finally Valladolid. Our pilot Daniel Tarno once again competed in the Spanish Championship in Haro (La Rioja). A very special occasion, filled with excitement, where the balloon stopped being just an individual experience and became a collective spectacle.

Sharing the sky with other pilots and feeling the excitement of the public was an unforgettable experience, one that strengthens our bond with the ballooning community and with the promotion of this truly unique sport.

2025 has also been a year of meetings. Passengers from all over Spain have flown with Globos Boreal, as well as international travelers who included a hot-air balloon flight as part of their tourist experience in our country. People who might not have shared a language, but shared the same excitement for flying.

Seeing someone who has traveled halfway across the world choose to fly with us is both a huge responsibility… and a source of pride. Each flight becomes a showcase of our landscapes and of the way we approach the experience: personal, attentive, and deeply human.

This year has been marked by corporate flights and large groups, where the balloon became a unique space for connection. No screens, no hierarchies, no rush. Just people sharing something out of the ordinary.

And, of course, 2025 has given us unforgettable moments: marriage proposals mid-flight, anniversaries, intimate celebrations, and private flights planned down to the last detail. Moments when the world seemed to shrink to a single question, a glance, or a “yes” spoken in the air.

In addition, we carried out numerous tethered flights in various parts of the country, bringing the world of ballooning closer to all kinds of audiences. Murcia, La Rioja, Madrid, and Seville were some of the settings where people of all ages could feel, even for a few minutes, the magic of rising off the ground and seeing their surroundings from a whole new perspective.

If anything defines 2025, it is gratitude. For every passenger who trusted Globos Boreal. For every clear sunrise. For every smooth landing. For every story that stayed with us as we folded the balloon.

We fly balloons, yes. But above all, we accompany important moments in people’s lives. And that is not measured in hours of flight, but in memories.

We close this year with full hearts and our eyes on the sky, ready to keep flying, dreaming, and sharing. Because if 2025 has taught us anything, it’s that the best memories sometimes begin floating.

Athletics Football Field (Parque Central), Igualada, Barcelona.

You already know that we’re the kind of people who will go anywhere to fly in a hot-air balloon — Austria, for example. This time, though, we’re coming back home to talk about one of the most iconic events in the ballooning world: the European Balloon Festival.

Considered one of the most important balloon festivals in Europe—and the largest in Spain—it takes place every summer during the first half of July in Igualada, a town located just 60 km from Barcelona. For several days, more than 50 hot-air balloons from all over the world fill the sky with color, turning the city into a must-visit meeting point for pilots, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers alike.

The festival is organized by the Igualada City Council and Ultramagic Balloons, one of the most internationally renowned hot-air balloon manufacturers, headquartered in the same town. Beyond offering a truly spectacular visual experience, the event also acts as a genuine hub for the ballooning community, giving local operators the opportunity to showcase their work, connect with the public, and share their passion for flying.

A MEETING POINT FOR PILOTS

The presence of Globos Boreal pilots in Igualada

Although Globos Boreal does not operate commercial flights during the festival, its pilots have been —and continue to be— very present in Igualada, taking part for pleasure, out of tradition, and in many cases, in competition.

WHAT TO DO ONCE YOU ARE THERE?

Night Glow: A nighttime balloon spectacle.

The European Balloon Festival is a very complete event, ideal to enjoy with family, friends, or even on your own if what you’re looking for is to be surprised.

For the general public, there are cultural and recreational activities such as the “wind igloos,” structures created from recycled balloon fabric. These spaces host concerts, workshops, and artistic proposals throughout the festival days, strengthening the connection between sustainability, culture, and ballooning.

In addition, there is the chance to fly on truly special days, when the sky fills with balloons and the landscape turns into pure magic.
A photography contest is also organized, open to both beginners and professionals, where participants can showcase their vision of the festival and compete for excellent prizes.

On the more technical and ballooning side, flights take place in the morning and in the afternoon, taking advantage of the best weather conditions. And, of course, one of the most anticipated moments is the Night Glow: a nighttime show in which the balloons, tethered to the ground, light up to the rhythm of the music, creating a hypnotic spectacle that brings together thousands of people.

YOU CAN EXPERIENCE THIS TOO

]]> https://globosboreal.com/en/when-hot-air-balloons-carry-you-belong-your-imagination Mon, 26 Jan 2026 11:43:09 +0000 https://globosboreal.com/?p=8277 We’ve all seen hot air balloons illustrated on birthday cards. Small, colorful, symbolic. But few people know that, far beyond paper, those very same balloons fill skies all over the world. Hot air balloons fly every day in different corners of the planet, carrying real people into real experiences. And today, we want to show you that this paper illustration has far more to do with real life than you might imagine.

This will be the first article in a series we’ll be publishing regularly, showing you where you can enjoy the wonderful experience of flying in a hot air balloon.

And hey—if some people collect Funko figures, coins, or trading cards… why not collect ballooning experiences and write your own journey around the world?😉

A WINTER FESTIVAL: THE BEGINNING OF AN ADVENTURE

Manfred, our second pilot at Globos Boreal, is from Austria. And in his home country, between January and February, something truly spectacular takes place: the Winter Balloon Festival. It is held in several Alpine valleys—Mauterndorf, Gosau, Filzmoos, Toblach, and Kaiserwinkel—and is jointly organized by local municipalities and hot air balloon companies.

Winter is the ideal season for this type of flight: the air is stable, there are no strong thermal currents, and weather conditions allow balloons to reach great altitudes safely. The result? Snow-covered mountains and balloons bringing the sky to life.

ACROSS EUROPE BY ROAD: SEVEN FRIENDS, ONE VAN, ONE DESTINATION

So, what does all this have to do with us? Seven friends, one van, 24 hours on the road, two countries crossed, and a single destination marked the beginning of this adventure towards the Austrian Alps… This is how a journey was born—one that is now part of the story of Globos Boreal.

We decided to travel by road. It was the most cost-effective option and, without a doubt, the most adventurous one.
We set off on January 5th, 2024, at 3 a.m., spirits high and curiosity running wild.

We took turns driving, stopped for coffee, food, and rest… making the most of every kilometer of scenery. The French highways seemed endless, but each stop brought us a little closer to our destination.

After 19 hours of travel, we reached Germany and stopped for the night. The outbound journey was a rush of excitement… we’ll save the return trip for another day.

OUR DESTINATION: AUSTRIA

We left Germany behind and, after five more hours on the road, we were finally there!

We rented a beautiful house with views of completely snow-covered mountains. Everyone to their own room and straight to rest—the important part would begin the next day.

In the morning, the pilots’ briefing took place, where safety procedures, altitude limitations, weather conditions, and the festival’s flight planning were reviewed.

FLYING OVER THE AUSTRIAN ALPS: A TRUE GEM

During the festival, four flights took place. But two of them were truly special.
The first: a journey of over two hours across the Austrian Alps. Snow-covered mountains, a sea of clouds beneath our feet, and complete silence. Flying with friends in such a setting is, without a doubt, one of the most magical experiences we’ve ever had.

We reached over 4,000 meters in altitude. From a certain height, for safety reasons, the crew uses oxygen bottles. Even if no symptoms are felt, the pilot uses oxygen to maintain full concentration and optimal safety. From that flight, we brought back memories… and photographs that speak for themselves.

The second major flight was scheduled to take off from the Mauntendorf airfield and land across the border in Italy; however, it had to be canceled due to weather conditions.
But Manfred, ever the gracious host, didn’t want the trip to feel incomplete. So we moved to Feldkirchen, where the weather was more favorable. From there, we crossed Lake Wörthersee and landed in St. Jakob im Rosental, very close to the Slovenian border. Another unexpected route. Another unforgettable memory.

WANT TO LIVE THIS EXPERIENCE?

If you’re in Austria and want to experience a hot air balloon flight, our recommended company is A–Z Balloonfahrten Kindermann-Schön, which offers everything from scenic rides over regions like Styria, Upper Austria, or Salzburg to pilot training, balloon maintenance, and personalized special events.

The best flights in this region take place during the colder months, from December to mid-March, when conditions are more stable and safe. It’s a season that turns the Austrian landscapes into a magical spectacle from above. Planning ahead and adapting to weather conditions ensures that every ballooning experience is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.

So, if you dream of an adventure like this, now you know where to start. And if you’d rather have your first balloon experience in Spain… Segovia and Globos Boreal are waiting for you.

Oh, snow-covered Segovia! Nothing feels closer to a fairy tale. The Alcázar of Segovia watching over the city, the lady of cathedrals dressed in her shimmering mantle, untouched snow-covered fields, rooftops dripping and forming small sculptures of ice.

Every detail—ephemeral and perfect—astonished both lucky visitors and locals last weekend.

A unique panorama that, lately, has been seen only on rare occasions. But these days, the storm decided to linger a little longer and gift us its most wintry version.

On January 18th, 2026, Segovia awoke beneath a snowfall as intense as it was unusual. A white blanket completely transformed the city, offering us a scene difficult to forget. Faced with such an opportunity, we didn’t hesitate: we decided to take to the skies so that our team and friends could enjoy this unique landscape from the air.

ARE WE GOING OR NOT?

Curiosity can also fly

Javier y Daniel, hot air balloon pilots

A BALLOON IN THE SNOW

We met early—very early. 8:15 in the morning, –7 degrees. We wrapped up warm, clipped in… and off we went.

We took off from Nueva Segovia, letting the wind carry us over the city. And what a choice that was.

The Guadarrama Mountains, which seemed (with a bit of imagination) to spill or slide their snow over every street, gave us exactly what we had come for: Segovia dressed in white, its rooftops, the city walls, the Alcázar and the cathedral shining like jewels in the snow. Thin threads of smoke rising from the chimneys painted signs of life in the cold, while everything around felt suspended in a perfect moment. Because if it was already magical from the ground, from the air it was simply indescribable.

An hour later, we touched down again amid laughter, shining eyes, and applause that brought the flight to a close the way memorable moments always end.

From that day, we’re left with the photos, the story… and the desire to repeat many more flights like this.

WE ALL ENJOYED IT, FROM START TO FINISH

And wherever you looked, everything was a spectacle. Our colorful balloon, the white blanket below, and of course, the beautiful sight of Segovia. No one remained indifferent. Even our friend Vera, experiencing snow for the first time, enjoyed it to the fullest. The lovely “polar puppy” (as our teammate Sara nicknamed her) kept watching us during takeoff and ascent, though the snowy blanket kept her happily busy.

Without a doubt, it is a true luxury to be able to carry out winter flights like this—experiences that don’t happen every year and that remind us just how extraordinary flying can be when nature decides to dress in white.

Where will this balloon go?