Montgolfiades de Givet

An aerial show over the fortress

The Montgolfiades de Givet offer a unique spectacle: that of dozens of colorful hot air balloons rising into the sky from the esplanade of the Fort de Charlemont, a historic fortress built by Charles V in 1555 and reinforced by Vauban. Overlooking the town of Givet and the Meuse valley from its ramparts, the fort provides an exceptional launch site that allows balloons to fly over a spectacular panorama combining military heritage, the meanders of the Meuse, and the wooded hills of the Ardennes.

Witness the inflation and launch

The heart of the show lies in the preparation and launch of the hot air balloons. Visitors can observe all the stages up close: spreading the envelope on the ground, cold inflation by the fan, heating by the burner which gradually makes the immense balloon stand up, then the majestic launch. Each ascent is a moment of grace that fascinates both children and adults. The bright colors of the envelopes stand out against the blue of the Ardennes sky, creating a living and ephemeral tableau of great beauty.

Hot air balloon flights over the Ardennes

For the more adventurous, the Montgolfiades offer hot air balloon flights departing from the Fort de Charlemont. Morning flights, with a meeting at 5:45 AM and launch from 6:15 AM, allow you to enjoy the low morning light and the quiet of the early hours. Evening flights, departing from 6:30 PM, offer the golden hues of the sunset over the Ardennes. From the top of the basket, passengers discover the Charlemont fortifications, the rooftops of Givet, the loops of the Meuse, and endless forests.

Activities for the whole family

Beyond the flights, the Montgolfiades offer activities for the whole family on the fort's esplanade. Children can participate in "teddy bear baptisms" in mini hot air balloons, an original activity where plush toys rise in small tethered balloons. Food and drink stands are set up on site, allowing you to fully enjoy the day in this exceptional historic setting. Access to the launch spectacle is completely free.

The Fort de Charlemont, a heritage gem

The Fort de Charlemont is one of the jewels of the Ardennes military heritage. Built in 1555 on the orders of Charles V to protect the northern border of the Empire, it was significantly reinforced by Vauban in the 17th century. Perched 200 meters above the Meuse, it offers a 360-degree panorama of the town of Givet, the valley, and the Belgian border. Today a tourist and cultural site, Charlemont hosts events throughout the year, with the Montgolfiades being one of the summer highlights.