Magic Over the Alps: Château-d’Œx Balloon Festival 🇨🇭Switzerland скачать в хорошем качестве

Magic Over the Alps: Château-d’Œx Balloon Festival 🇨🇭Switzerland

🎈 International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Château-d’Œx (Switzerland) The International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Château-d’Œx is one of the most famous winter balloon festivals in the world. It takes place every year in the Swiss Alps, usually from late January to early February, and lasts about 9 days. Château-d’Œx is a small alpine village in the canton of Vaud, known as the ballooning capital of Switzerland thanks to its ideal weather and mountain conditions. ⸻ 🌍 What makes this festival special • The festival started in 1979, making it one of the oldest balloon festivals in Europe • Around 60–80 hot air balloons participate each year • Pilots come from 15–20 different countries • The event attracts tens of thousands of visitors The sight of colorful balloons floating above snow-covered mountains is what makes this festival truly magical. ⸻ 🎉 What happens during the festival 🎈 Balloon launches • Most flights happen early in the morning, when weather conditions are best • Balloons take off from the valley and drift over the alpine landscape • Weather dependent — some days flights may be canceled for safety 🏆 Pilot competitions • Professional pilots take part in navigation and precision challenges • These competitions are part of international ballooning sport 🚀 Passenger flights Visitors can book a hot air balloon ride: • Flight time: 40–90 minutes • Total experience: about 3 hours • Incredible views of the Alps • Prices are usually CHF 300–400 per adult 👨‍👩‍👧 Family & cultural activities • Children’s activities and tethered balloon rides • Food stalls with Swiss specialties • Music, exhibitions, and aviation-related events • Souvenir shops and festival market ⸻ 🌟 Famous moments & history • In 1999, the legendary Breitling Orbiter 3 began its historic non-stop flight around the world from Château-d’Œx • The village has also hosted World and European Ballooning Championships This gives the festival strong historical importance in aviation. ⸻ 🎟️ Tickets & access • Weekdays: usually free entry • Weekends: small entrance fee • A festival badge allows access for all days • Balloon flights must be booked in advance ⸻ ❄️ Why people love this festival ✔️ Spectacular alpine scenery ✔️ Unique winter atmosphere ✔️ World-class ballooning event ✔️ Suitable for families, couples, and photographers ✔️ Rare chance to fly in a hot air balloon over the Alps