Semnoz and the Bornes are the Alpine peaks and massifs that rim Lake Annecy — wooded ridges and open summits that frame many days here. From valley roads you see one ridge or col at a time. From a hot air balloon the hills may appear as a wider mountain belt when the wind carries you that way. On the Annecy hub, Semnoz and the Bornes are wind-dependent views on the shared Alps ride, never a promised summit tour from the air.
The Annecy Alps Hot Air Balloon Ride covers that honesty. Plan on about three hours for the full experience, with about an hour in the air, from €375 per person. You meet at the Annecy-region meeting point shown on your confirmation, then transfer to the take-off field for that day’s aerology. After welcome and balloon preparation, the float begins. The route follows the wind, so lakes, Alpine peaks and Mont Blanc are views you may see rather than a fixed overflight. You may see Lake Annecy, village country toward Annecy Old Town, or a distant Mont Blanc vista when the air is clear — or a mix that changes with the morning or evening slot.
Keep the story soft. Named ranges are useful geography for guests who know the local map; they are not route markers the pilot must hit. Some flights never label Semnoz or the Bornes clearly underfoot. Other flights open neighbouring Alpine ridges in plain view as the light rises or softens. Peaks are orientation — not stops.
The full outing wraps with a friendly drink and a flight diploma after landing, then return transport to the meeting point. Includes welcome at the meeting point, transport to the take-off field, a chance to help prepare the balloon, the shared flight (about an hour), landing, a friendly drink and flight diploma, and return to the meeting point, as listed when you book. Hotel transfer to the meet is not included — make your own way.
Make your own way to the Annecy-region meeting point shown on your booking confirmation. Hotel transfer is not included. From there the crew transfers you to that day’s weather-chosen take-off field and brings you back after landing. Exact start time follows your booked slot and voucher — no fixed clock. Sunrise or late-day / sunset options are sold on the live calendar, weather permitting — follow your confirmation. Shared hot air balloon. Basket group size is not published as a hard limit on the booking page. The experience is offered in French and English. Not suitable for children under 7. Children under 7 cannot take this flight. An individual weight limit is not stated on the booking page. Not suitable for pregnant guests or people with mobility impairments. Expect a short outdoor walk, boarding, standing in the basket, and a gentle landing. Wear closed-toe shoes; high heels are not allowed.
Free cancellation up to 3 days before for a full refund. Flights depend on wind and weather; the take-off field is chosen for conditions. Lake and Mont Blanc views are visibility-dependent. If conditions are not suitable, you can usually rebook or claim a refund under the free-cancellation policy on your booking. To look for Semnoz and Bornes country on a shared Alps balloon, book the Annecy Alps hot air balloon ride on the Annecy hub. Live prices are shown when you book.
Se Semnoz & the Bornes från luften: Annecy · Annecy Alps Hot Air Balloon Ride.