The Alps in winter have always appealed to hot-air balloonists. Ascending high above the snowy peaks and enjoying the majestic alpine panorama in all its glory is only possible in a hot-air balloon. But ballooning in the alps is no picnic. Craggy peaks, mountain lakes, forests, power lines and villages divide the landscape below into a fragmented puzzle. Landing places are rare and emergency landings almost inevitable. At international hot-air balloon jamborees, the skies are filled with a multitude of brilliant, multi-coloured balloons, and at night, illuminated balloons create a fabulous light spectacle.