One of Victoria’s most scenic sky-high experiences is making a spectacular return, with Global Ballooning Australia launching rare winter afternoon hot air balloon flights over Mansfield and Victoria’s High Country.
Operating from May to September, the new season will offer both sunrise and golden-hour afternoon flights - a rare dual-flight experience almost unheard of in Australian ballooning due to weather conditions.
Set against snow-dusted alpine landscapes, rolling farmland and crisp winter skies, the return of ballooning to Mansfield marks a major tourism moment for the region, giving visitors a new way to experience one of Victoria’s premier winter destinations.
Global Ballooning founder, Kiff Saunders, first flew over Mansfield in 1992, helping establish the region as one of the state’s most iconic ballooning destinations.
More than three decades later, the family-operated business is returning to where it all began.
“Flying over Mansfield in winter is unlike anywhere else in Australia,” said Eddie Saunders of Global Ballooning Australia.
“The light is softer, the valleys fill with mist, and on clear days you can see all the way to the alpine peaks.
"Adding afternoon flights means visitors can now experience the High Country in two completely different and equally spectacular ways.”
The introduction of afternoon flights is expected to boost visitation across the cooler months, encouraging travellers to extend their stay and experience the region’s wineries, breweries, farm gates, luxury accommodation and nearby alpine villages.
“Winter in Mansfield already offers so much - from snow trips and fireside dining to cycling, wineries and mountain adventures,” said Mr Saunders.
“Ballooning adds another unforgettable layer to the High Country experience.
"There’s something incredibly peaceful about floating above the valleys as the sun drops behind the mountains.”
The 2026 season also reflects the next generation of the Saunders family, with Eddie, Paterson and Scarlett Saunders all now involved in operations, alongside Mansfield local pilot-in-training Bevan Fistr.
Flights are now available to book via Global Ballooning Australia.