HI there. I have read on the internet about the tethered balloon installed above Villa Borghese in 2003 which gives wonderful views of Rome. Does anyone know please, is the balloon still there and if so is it possible to reserve a place on it? I am vistinhg Rome next month for a special anniversary. Thank you Very Much for your help with this.

LInda Grant

The balloon was there in June, although we didn't get to go up in it.

You may be able to call to find out about it. It has indeed been tethered there for quite some time.

Galoppatoio di Villa Borghese. Info 0632111511
Looking out over Rome from a balloon
Enjoy a breathtaking view of Rome, 150 metres off the ground and 360°... now it's possible! Part of the Celebrations for the Centennial of Villa Borghese, set up in the Galoppatoio, the balloon anchored to a fixed base, with a diameter of 22 metres and a height of 35, is the largest fixed hot-air balloon in the world. Every 15-20 minutes, from 9:30am to sunset, a group of 30 people can take off towards a spectacular and never seen before Rome. Prices: Holidays €18, reduced €12. Woking days €15, reduced €11. Children €3 or €6

Bringing your question back up "to the top" - - since you are new here; how did I know that? Click on your own name. It's a valuable tip that Fodors fails to provide to you when they send you that initial e-mail confirming your registration.

Best wishes,

Rex

In the context of http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34665936 ...

... I will e-mail this thread to the OP.

Hi Linda,

I am going to take a ride in the balloon when I am there in October.Here is their website:
www.aerophile.it/eng/roma.htm.

Tom

My daughter and I rode it last month. It's actually raised by an electric motor, no flames are used. Reservations weren't neccessary, and although it can accommodate up to 30 people, it was more like 15 per "flight". My guess is reservations may not be taken due to the weather factor.

sounds great...adding it to my list of things to do while in Rome

Anne