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

Описание: 🎈 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.

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🌍 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.

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🎉 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

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🌟 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.

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🎟️ 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

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❄️ 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