Hot air balloon rides at dawn are one of the Hunter Valley's signature experiences. Several operators run daily flights (weather permitting) from launch sites around Pokolbin, with flights lasting roughly an hour and typically followed by a champagne breakfast. The view over the vineyard landscape — rows of vines, the Brokenback Range in the background, the early light — is genuinely beautiful.
Flights are not cheap, but they are popular enough that bookings should be made well in advance for weekend visits. The experience works well for a special occasion; it also works well as a standalone reason to stay overnight in the valley rather than doing a day trip from Sydney. Flights depart very early — typically around 6am or earlier — which means an overnight stay is strongly recommended.