The annual large-scale events in Gstaad attract a mass of tourists to the mountainous area. The town fills with the buzz of visiting vacationers at the start of January's Balloon Festival, in which around a hundred balloons from 15 countries take part. It's also an attraction because of the exciting Snowgames/SAAB Salomon Crossmax ski cross at the end of February.
Gstaad has a regular snowboarding competition, with international boardercross competitions taking place in early February.
When it comes to entertainment in Gstaad, there is a myriad of it. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, everyone can take part in heli-skiing or freeride skiing.
It is possible to go on a skitouring trip. A day of guiding in this case costs about 520 CHF. Anyone wishing to fly over the valley can take a tandem paragliding flight for CHF 190. Sledding is a favorite and highly respected local pastime. There are also four ice rinks in the region, two of which are completely free.
