Forging New Paths

Alpine quest

Coming Up Summer 2026

Alpine Quest 2

After the success of the first Alpine Quest expedition, a new chapter is on the horizon.

Alpine Quest 2 will once again bring together athletes, scientists, and artists to explore the heart of the Alps where glaciers, rivers, and communities reveal the changing story of water.

Through adventure, research, and storytelling, this second journey aims to raise awareness about the future of Alpine glaciers and inspire collective action to protect one of Earth’s most vital resources.

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March – May 2025

From Vienna to Monaco: A Women’s Alpine Challenge

March to May 2025, Ironman World Champion Loubna Freih and mountain guide Mélanie Corthay traversed the Alps from Vienna to Monaco, combining cycling, ski mountaineering, and trail running. This all-female adventure marked the International Year of Glacier Preservation, spotlighting glacier retreat and water resource issues, while celebrating women’s connection to nature through sport. Powered by the Alpine Quest International Foundation, it was a call to protect our environment.

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Alpine Quest Expedition Route

The itinerary

The Alpine Quest expedition took Loubna and her team from Vienna to Monaco, where they navigated iconic peaks and remote trails while combining cycling, ski mountaineering, and running. The map below retraces their expedition across the Alps.

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Bikepacking Essentials

Meet the Team

Loubna Freih

Meet Loubna, expedition leader, 2024 Ironman World Champion, and elite athlete living in Verbier, Switzerland. A podium finisher in legendary ski mountaineering races like the Patrouille des Glaciers, Loubna is the embodiment of passion for the mountains and the relentless pursuit of pushing boundaries.

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Field Team

Loubna didn’t tackle this challenge alone. Throughout the journey, she was accompanied by her friend and mountain guide Mélanie, who ensured safety and support in the toughest terrains. They were also joined at key moments by Sophie for logistical coordination, Saskia for research insights, and Aurélie for content creation, forming a dynamic team united by a shared passion for adventure and discovery.

Mélanie Corthay

Mountain Guide
First female guide from Val de Bagnes, is an accomplished athlete. Since 2018, she has formed a daring trio with Loubna and Sophie, united by their passion for high-altitude adventures.

Sophie Pelka

Team Manager
Team manager and passionate ski mountaineer, is the co-founder of Give it Forward Trust and vice president of GivingWomen, working for women’s empowerment.

Saskia Gindraux

Glaciologist
Glaciology expert based in Sion, studied alpine and polar environments before joining CREALP. She is skilled in measurement and imaging technologies to analyse frozen environments.

Aurélie Gonin

Film Director
Film director, photographer and founder of Alpine Media House, creates mountain adventure films with a journalistic approach. She splits her time between Chamonix and Colorado.

A Women’s Relay of Strength

Athletes on the Adventure

Throughout the journey, a lineup of women joined the Alpine Quest at different stages. From elite multi-sport athletes and Olympians to world champions and inspiring adventurers of all ages, these remarkable individuals brought their unique strength and stories to this epic crossing.