Alister Bignell
International Mountain Leader
The outdoors and especially the mountains have been a way of life for me for as long as I can remember, starting with a career as an outdoor instructor in the UK and then a permanent move out to the Alps in 2006. As well as running lots, I like to go climbing in the summer and winter with friends, exploring new corners of the Alps and trying to improve my languages. The constant through all of this is plenty of fresh coffee and local cakes!
An avid racer of both short and long distances on road and trail, I’m as much motivated by the training required as the actual competition.
Sharing the Alpine trails with people and seeing them inspired by this amazing landscape is what motivates me as a guide. It’s also a constant reminder to see familiar landscapes through fresh eyes, as there is always something new to be learned from guests!
Run the Alps Senior Guide Alister Bignell serves up the first course at Les Mottets, on the Tour du Mont-Blanc.
There’s just a little bit of snow this winter, in the Alps! (Photo by Doug Mayer.)
Every Trail Runner’s Biggest Fear: Keeping Up With the Group
I’m not sure I can run up those hills. What if I’m the slowest? How do I know which trip is right for me?
Trail Run with The Mirnavator in Switzerland!
Mirna Valerio, aka “The Mirnavator,” is back again this summer, and we could not be happier! This time, we’re headed to Switzerland’s Bernese Oberland, home of the iconic Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau.
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel
A few years ago, we started looking for the perfect bag for our clients to move their belongings from inn to inn, when they’re trail running the Tour du Mont-Blanc. This is it! The 55-liter size has enough room for a few sets of town clothes and personal effects.