At 08:05 GMT on the morning of 1 March 1999, Château-d’Oex was written into the history books. Because that was the moment when Bertrand Piccard (CH) and Brian Jones (GB) launched the Breitling Orbiter 3 on what was to become the first successful uninterrupted circumnavigation of the ...
At 08:05 GMT on the morning of 1 March 1999, Château-d’Oex was written into the history books. Because that was the moment when Bertrand Piccard (CH) and Brian Jones (GB) launched the Breitling Orbiter 3 on what was to become the first successful uninterrupted circumnavigation of the world on board a balloon.
International Balloon Festival
It’s no surprise that Château-d’Oex was picked for this historic launch. For over 40 years the town has welcomed ballooning enthusiasts for over a week of competitions, passenger flights and tether flights in the International Balloon Festival. (Mark your calendars for 20–28 January 2024.)
It’s an enthusiastic celebration of this recreational and competitive sport. There are dozens of what I’ll call ’traditional looking’ balloons jostling for airspace with the most fabulous array of designs including lions, clowns, chickens and a Scotsman in a kilt playing the bagpipes. Yes, really.
A highlight of the event is Night Glow, a night-time sound and light show. Featuring hot air balloons, paragliders, members of the Swiss Ski School and pyrotechnicians this is not-tobe-missed event. I remember the year we watched from up on the hill by the Temple de Château-d’Oex. Seeing the paragliders descend was like being in a James Bond film with the baddies swooping down to do their worst. Only without the guns.
Spectator Sport
Ordinarily you’re most likely to spot a balloon flight on a crisp early morning. There’s something majestic about the way they seem to hang lazily in the air, though I vividly recall the day a balloon came so low over our chalet we thought it was going to land in the neighbouring field. But a few bursts of flame later and it was off down the valley towards Saanen.
Have I ever been tempted up? I remember the days when balloons were launched from the centre of Gstaad opposite the old Hotel Christiania and my husband would wonder aloud about taking a trip. But I’m not what you’d call an adventurer. So despite a friend waxing lyrical on the marvellous time she had floating high above the Saanenland, I’m happy to take her word for it and keep my feet on the ground.
Balloon Museum
But there are other ways to get involved. If you’re keen to get a taste of Château-d’Oex’s ballooning heritage then a visit to the ’Espace Ballon’ museum is a must. You’ll spot it easily by virtue of the Breitling Orbiter gondola in the street. Constructed from Kevlar and carbon fibre, to me it looks more like a flying submarine and is a far cry from the traditional woven baskets of wicker. But step inside the museum and there’s much more to see and learn. You’ll enjoy interactive exhibits and there’s real equipment on display that you can touch. It’s a fantastic place for children and a top attraction on rainy days. I’ve also heard tell that a hot air balloon simulator is coming soon, so watch this space.
Last But Not Least
If you have no time for any of that, don’t fear! You can still admire the massive hot air balloon decoration on the roundabout at the entrance to Château-d’Oex. An authentic and apt way to celebrate the sport that has put the town on the map.
ANNA CHARLES
