GenevaLunch

Le Matin, Fre - Two women fell when a cornice collapsed under them as they trekked on skins up the north face of La Para, also known as La Tornette, near Chateau d'Oex in the Diableret region. One woman died and the other was taken by helicopter to the hospital (CHUV) in Lausanne in serious condition. No details have been given about the group of six; the other four were safe.

Several other Alpine accidents occurred over the weekend, including the death of a skier in Zermatt and two near Valloire, France, reports the Houston Chronicle. (continue reading)→

Visit flyingB's photos on flickr to see the large version and other regional photos.

24 Heures, Fre and Chateau d'Oex tourism, Fre - The Chateau d'Oex hot air balloon festival, a popular annual event, had perfect weather Sunday, with 25,000 spectators - half of all visitors during the nine-day festival. Weather hampered the event early in the week but Friday and Saturday some 90 balloons lifted off each day. Nocturnal ballooning Friday night, with a light show and music, pulled in a crowd of 10,000. The event drew 147 pilots from 27 countries, including a group of Russians who drove 8,000 km to participate. (continue reading)→