Hot air balloons fill the sky over Krems

Numerous hot air balloons are turning the sky above Krems into a colourful spectacle from Thursday to Sunday, ORF reported. The Krems Balloon Days are running from August 13 to 16, and members of the public can also join a flight.

The event began as a small gathering organised by the Union Sportfliegerclub Krems an der Donau. It has since become a popular meeting point for balloon pilots from Austria, Switzerland, Germany and the United Kingdom, who travel to the region around August 15 to fly together.

Mass launches are scheduled daily at about 6.30am, depending on weather conditions. The balloons rise in the cool morning air, but whether and how many can take off is ultimately determined by the weather. The air inside the balloon envelope must be significantly warmer than the outside air for the balloon to fly.

Visitors who want to experience the view from above can take part in a balloon flight. A ride costs 300 euros.

The terrace of the sport flying club also offers spectators a good vantage point for watching the launches and following the colourful balloons as they travel across the Krems region. The Krems Langenlois Balloon Days continue until Sunday, August 16.