It was the most amazing and beautiful experience ever. DO IT!
Although it was a bit of a challenge to start very early in the morning, it was worth it. There were very clear directions and signage to get to the winery, our gathering point. A welcoming staff registering each passenger and providing light refreshments was nice. With 75 to 80 people going in 5 to 6 balloons was quite a well orchestrated effort by a helpful staff. Each person was pre assigned to a set of vans to be transported to a field / golf course where we watched the balloons being filled with helium gas and readied for takeoff. Once inside the balloon it was very exciting yet calming experience to fly. Watching the beautiful Napa and surrounding valleys and watching other balloons in the sky was a sight to behold. The pilot was very knowledgeable about Napa's history and experienced in flying. He made the flight enjoyable for the most part until towards the end as the winds were slower, landing got a bit scary and challenging. However, the pilot skillfully maneuvered the balloon into safe landing area. After being driven back to the starting winery point, a delicious brunch was served. Each balloons' pilot mingled with their group of people and answered further questions. All in all a wonderful experience!
This is a wonderful experience. It isn't at all scary, just beautiful and very serene. I would recommend the hot air balloon ride to everyone.