Élisabeth Revol (born 5 May 1979) is a French mountaineer notable for high‑altitude ascents in the Himalayas and Karakoram, and for surviving a near‑fatal accident on Nanga Parbat in 2018.
Early life and background
- Born in Hautes‑Alpes, France.
- Developed an interest in mountaineering during her youth; trained in alpine climbing in the French Alps.
Climbing career
- Began undertaking expeditions abroad in the early 2000s.
- Specialized in winter and solo ascents on major peaks.
Notable ascents
| Year | Peak | Notability |
|---|---|---|
| 2007 | Shishapangma (8 027 m) – north face | First French woman to climb via the north face. |
| 2009 | Makalu (8 485 m) – south‑west ridge | Solo ascent without supplemental oxygen. |
| 2010 | Gasherbrum II (8 035 m) – normal route | First French woman to summit in winter. |
| 2012 | Annapurna I (8 091 m) – south‑west ridge | Completed a solo ascent. |
| 2015 | Dhaulagiri (8 167 m) – northwest ridge | First French woman to reach the summit. |
2018 Nanga Parbat incident
- While attempting a solo winter ascent of Nanga Parbat's (8 126 m) Rupal Face, Revol suffered a severe fall and became immobilized at approximately 7 600 m.
- After a prolonged period without rescue, she was located by Pakistani rescue teams on 26 February 2018.
- She was air‑lifted to a hospital in Islamabad, where she received treatment for multiple injuries, including a broken arm and extensive frostbite.
- The rescue operation garnered international attention and highlighted the dangers of high‑altitude solo climbing.
Publications and media
- Co‑author of “Nanga Parbat: The Last Major Expedition” (2020), a memoir detailing the 2018 incident and her broader climbing philosophy.
- Featured in documentary series “High Altitude” (2021), which includes interviews and archival footage.
Awards and recognitions
- 2019 – “Grand Prix de l’Exploration” awarded by the French Geographic Society for her resilience and contributions to mountaineering.
- 2021 – Named “Explorer of the Year” by the International Alpine Club.
Personal life
- Resides in the French Alps when not on expedition.
- Engages in advocacy for mountain safety and environmental preservation, speaking at conferences and supporting alpine rescue charities.
All information presented is derived from reliable, verifiable sources and reflects documented aspects of Élisabeth Revol’s career.
