
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.)
The EU’s New Entry/Exit System (EES): What Travelers Need to Know

The Entry/Exit System will replace passport stamping for visitors arriving from outside the EU. Here’s how it affects your trip.
Run the Alps Film Festival 2026

Our film festival is a celebration of trail running in the Alps, showcasing inspiring stories and breathtaking landscapes.
Guest Runners

Run the Alps is fortunate to be tapped into a world of adventurous trail runners with a wide range of experiences, knowledge and insights who share our inclusive, supportive philosophy. Let’s run together.