Mélissa Le Nevé’s story reflects the heart of a climber who has found a home in the outstanding and challenging terrain of Céüse, one of the most iconic climbing destinations in France. Growing up in Bordeaux, she discovered climbing at the age of 17, despite the lack of climbing opportunities in the area. Determined to pursue her passion, she moved to Aix-en-Provence at 20, where she could live a lifestyle centered around climbing during her summer breaks. Each year, she spent months camping at Céüse, immersed in its unique cliffs, which demanded not just physical strength but a deep mental commitment. The routes at Céüse pushed her out of her comfort zone, which she embraced as a critical part of her growth as a climber.

Melissa’s journey with Céüse began in 2008 when she first visited the area while competing in the Hautes-Alpes. She instantly fell in love with the cliff’s beauty and challenge, setting herself the secret goal of climbing every route one day. Céüse became not only a physical challenge but also a metaphor for her personal growth, as it demanded courage, perseverance, and skill in the face of daunting routes, where the bolts are often far apart.

After years of dedicating herself to climbing, Melissa settled near Céüse in the Hautes-Alpes with her partner, drawn by the region’s diverse outdoor opportunities. This area offered everything she and her partner were searching for: climbing, skiing, paragliding, and an immersive experience with the mountains. Discovering paragliding was like seeing the mountains in a completely new light. Before that, her life had revolved around intense focus on one goal, such as mastering specific climbs like “Action Directe,” which she describes as a singular focus on movement, rock, and technique. She found freedom in flight, a counterbalance to the all-consuming nature of climbing, allowing her to reconnect with the world around her in a more expansive way.

The relationship with her climbing projects is deeply personal, especially her connection with two iconic climbs: “Action Directe” and “Biographie.” The first time she attempted the moves on “Biographie” was in 2015, while she was close to finishing “Action Directe.” She was in peak physical condition, and to her surprise, the moves of “Biographie” fell into place effortlessly. But despite this promising start, she decided to put the project on hold until she could complete “Action Directe,” which she finally did in 2020. This achievement unlocked something in her, giving her the mental freedom to pursue “Biographie” in earnest.While climbing remains central to Le Nevé’s identity, she has come to embrace other aspects of life with equal enthusiasm. She reflects on how her approach to climbing has evolved: she no longer views it as her sole focus but as a part of a larger love for the outdoors and the freedom it brings. Flying has played a role in helping her relax, reconnect with her inner child, and appreciate the small moments of joy in life, reminding her to balance ambition with playfulness.

As she continues her journey with “Biographie,” Le Nevé reflects on the significance of the route in her life. It’s not just about achieving the climb, but about the self-discovery that comes along with it. It has become a mirror for her growth, a test of endurance, and a source of reflection. Living just an hour away from Céüse allows her to approach the project with more relaxation and a sense of belonging—this is her playground, a place where she can be herself, explore, and grow. Through climbing and flying, she has found a balance between striving for excellence and staying connected to the simple joys of life.