Dozens of hot-air balloons have been taking to the skies over Switzerland in one of the largest festivals of its kind in the world.

The event celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Swiss International Hot-Air Balloon Festival.

Balloonists from 30 countries are taking part

Balloons of a variety of weird and wonderful shapes took to the air over Chateau-d'Oex providing a spectacular sight.

Some 100 balloonists from 30 countries are taking part in the festival, watched by thousands of spectators.

The festival was opened by the Swiss balloonist Bertrand Piccard.

Thousands turned out to watch

"It is very important for me," he said.

"I came each year since 1979 and it is in Chateau-d'Oex that I entered the world of ballooning and each time I come here it is like a pilgrimage."

Belgian pilot Wim Verstraeten and British engineer Andrew Elson hope to become the first balloonists to fly non-stop around the world after taking off from Chateau-d'Oex in their Breitling Orbiter 2 this week.

The Chateau-d'Oex area has an exceptional micro-climate especially suited to ballooning, as well as offering exceptional views of the Alps.
 

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