Hello Mélanie! To begin, can you introduce yourself?
Hi! I'm Mélanie Grünwald, 31 years old, a mountaineer, climber, paraglider, and storyteller about the outdoor world. Born and raised in the Austrian Alps, I've practically always lived with hiking boots or skis on my feet. After a long 5-year break due to injury and chronic pain, I've finally made it back to the mountains and I'm fully enjoying everything the Alps have to offer.
What sport do you play? And for how long?
My world revolves around mountaineering, paragliding (mainly Hike & Fly), ski touring, trail running, and all forms of climbing—sport, trad, mixed, it doesn't matter. I'm on the move almost every day of the week, in one way or another. Mountaineering and skiing have been a part of my life since childhood, and in recent years, I've added aerial sports to the list.
Aside from sports, what motivates you?
Good food and spending time with my friends and loved ones. Cooking or sharing a meal together and enjoying each other's company is very important to me. It creates unique memories and gives a deep sense of belonging and community in an increasingly digital world.
Can you share with us some highlights from your sporting career?
Soaring up Mont Blanc from the valley floor to fly with my paraglider at dawn, or solo traversing the Matterhorn, are clearly defining days for me in the mountains. But my greatest victory has been returning to outdoor sports after a period when "walking" was no longer even possible.
©David Herzig
What is your best performance or your most memorable sporting moment?
Being alone at the summit of the Matterhorn after my five-year break. I had tears in my eyes. It was the mountain I had always dreamed of climbing since I was little, and it became the symbol of my return.
What is the most wonderful encounter that sport has offered you?
Sport – especially outdoor sports – can be everything to you. If you need a challenge, it offers a space to push your limits and discover what you're capable of. If you're seeking peace, it brings you the serenity to simply "be." And of course, it's the best playground for having fun.
…And your best day?
A solo sunrise, up there, completely alone, no wind, with the gentle crunch of crampons on the snow. Bonus if I can fly back down.
Or… honestly? A relaxing afternoon swimming in a lake after a long week in the mountains, with an ice cream and a good book. It's all about balance.
Why did you agree to join the COOKNRUN team?
Because it felt authentic. It's a brand created by people who actually go outside, who live in wild spaces, and who care about what they put in their bodies. That's rare.
And frankly, these are simply the best energy bars I've ever tasted. (Actually, I'd already been sneaking my partner's for a while 😊) The choice was easy.
What do you like about COOKNRUN?
The taste! Finally, something that doesn't taste like cardboard or chemicals. And I love that it's natural—no weird stuff, just real food that fuels real effort. Plus, it feels good to support a brand built on values, not empty marketing.
Do you have a favorite product in the range? Why that one?
Yes — the peanut and chocolate bar . It's the perfect sweet and salty mix, it doesn't melt in my bag, and it gives me that little "come on, you can do it" boost in the middle of a climb. Basically, it's my soulmate snack for summits.
How would you describe your partnership with COOKNRUN in a few words?
“It’s all about the right fuel.”
What are your next goals or projects?
I have in mind a few alpine routes, more Hike & Fly missions, and exploring new mountain ranges beyond the Alps – perhaps the Himalayas. Always searching for that feeling where effort meets freedom!
What can we wish for you in the future?
Strong legs, light packs, beautiful weather and plenty of happy summits… Because snacks are already sorted 🥰
