In an extraordinary display of endurance and skill, ultra-trail runner Kilian Jornet has conquered the Alps, completing a monumental journey that saw him link 82 of the region’s 4,000-metre peaks in just 19 days. The 36-year-old Spanish athlete embarked on a breathtaking adventure that took him through Switzerland, France, and Italy, covering a staggering 1,207 km and climbing a total elevation of 75,344m.
Kilian Jornet and the Alpine Connections
Jornet’s project, dubbed “Alpine Connections,” was a testament to his unparalleled athletic prowess, combining running, mountaineering, climbing, and cycling across 16 gruelling stages. Each day, on average, Jornet spent 17 hours pushing his limits, with 87% of the journey completed on foot and the remaining 13% by bike, as he navigated through some of the most challenging terrains in the world.
This feat not only solidifies Jornet’s status as one of the greatest endurance athletes of our time but also sets a new benchmark, surpassing the previous record held by Swiss climber Ueli Steck, who completed a similar challenge in 62 days in 2015.
Jornet’s odyssey began on August 13 in Switzerland, where he scaled the majestic Piz Bernina and Weissmies. He then tackled the technical peaks of the Valais region, including the formidable Weisshorn and Dom des Mischabels. The final stages of his journey were in Italy and France, where he summited some of the highest peaks in the Mont Blanc massif, including the iconic Mont Blanc itself and the Grandes Jorasses.
The Gran Paradiso National Park in Italy and the Parc National des Ecrins in France were also part of his epic route, with Jornet cycling between these stunning locations to continue his quest.
5 hours of sleep
Throughout the 19 days, Jornet averaged 16 hours of daily activity, with only about five hours of sleep, supported by a dedicated team that managed logistics, food, equipment, and content creation. The project was the result of over six months of meticulous planning.
“This project has been incredible; I think it’s one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done, both physically and technically, as well as mentally,” Jornet reflected. “Having to stay in a state of total concentration for 20 days requires a lot of energy, but it has been amazing. I remember all the sunrises and sunsets and all the friends who accompanied me in the mountains. I am very happy and proud of what we have achieved in the last three weeks. Now it’s time to rest and process everything that has happened, because I think it will take me some time to fully appreciate it.”
Jornet’s latest achievement adds to his already impressive resume, which includes holding the record for the fastest ascent and descent of the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, as well as victories in numerous long-distance trail running races, such as the Western States 100-mile event and the Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc.