Hot air balloons, concerts and nature in Riom-ès-Montagnes
In the heart of the Pays Gentiane, in the highlands of Cantal, the Festival Entre Ciel et Terre has been offering a unique experience since 2011, combining aerial shows and discovery of natural heritage. Riom-ès-Montagnes, a small town of character perched at over 800 meters above sea level, offers an exceptional setting for this event which combines the poetry of hot air ballooning with the richness of human encounters.
The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the hot air balloon flights, which allow participants to discover the breathtaking landscapes of volcanic Cantal from the air. The colorful balloons rise above the valleys and plateaus, offering an unforgettable panorama of the Cantal mountains, Puy Mary, and the vast expanses of the Planèze. These flights are offered subject to favorable weather conditions and are a moment of grace appreciated by festival-goers.
Beyond the flights, the festival offers a rich and varied program. Concerts liven up the evenings, blending traditional and contemporary music in a warm atmosphere. The first edition in 2011 notably hosted the Breton band Tri Yann for a memorable concert. Conferences and meetings with personalities committed to the environment and the discovery of the world complete the program. The first edition featured two exhibitions by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, a nature outing, and a conference by Nicolas Vanier.
The festival takes place in a territory of exceptional natural richness. The Pays Gentiane, named after the emblematic flower that carpets the high-altitude pastures, is a major center of Auvergne biodiversity. The festival's activities invite you to discover this heritage through nature outings, hikes, and environmental awareness workshops. On-site camping and catering allow you to extend the festival experience in the heart of this preserved nature.
The festival thus contributes to the renown of Riom-ès-Montagnes and Haut-Cantal as a tourist destination combining culture, nature, and wonder.
The Festival Entre Ciel et Terre returns from July 3 to 6, 2026 in Riom-ès-Montagnes for a new edition. Hot air balloon flights, concerts, conferences, and activities will make up the program of this unmissable summer event in Haut-Cantal.
Riom-ès-Montagnes is located in the north of the Cantal department, about 60 km from Aurillac and 90 km from Clermont-Ferrand.
Camping possible on the festival site. Hotels, gîtes, and bed and breakfasts are available in Riom-ès-Montagnes and the surrounding area. Tourist Office of Pays Gentiane: 04 71 78 07 37.
Bar and catering on site during the festival.
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Centre-ville de Riom-ès-Montagnes
1 Avenue Fernand Brun, 15400 Riom-ès-Montagnes