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Isola 2000
Isola 2000
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Isola 2000 is a ski resort in the southern French Alps. It is located on the territory of the commune of Isola, Alpes-Maritimes. It is one of the Stations du Mercantour, along with Auron and St. Dalmas, and is operated by the council of the Alpes-Maritimes. It is located next to the Mercantour National Park, and is about 90 km from Nice, France.

Key Information

History

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Origins

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The area used to be part of the County of Nice in the Kingdom of Piedmont Sardinia. In 1861, with Italy's unification, it became part of the Province of Cuneo. In 1947 following the treaty of Paris the area was given to France.

The idea of a ski resort near the small town of Isola first came from a British Army ex-officer, and Olympic skier, Peter Boumphrey, in the late 1960s, after he discovered a basin in the southern French Alps on a map. The local village of Isola owned the land he wanted to build the resort on – a small town located at an altitude of 900m, with poor prospects for development as citizens were migrating to the cities. As a result of this, the local mayor was happy to allow Boumphrey, and the London-based contractors he persuaded to help him, to build a ski resort above Isola, as the land required was of little value as farmland.[1]

The regional government was concerned not too much about the resort itself, but about the road that was required to access it. Before the resort existed there was a small dirt road up the resort's location, and avalanches were constantly blocking this in the winter, as well as rockslides in the summer. Therefore, the government was interested in building a slightly longer, but safer road to the resort, that could serve Isola 2000, and also another proposed resort, called Azur 2000, that was never built. However, the mayor of Isola was adamant that the road pass through his town, and the British contractors did not want the resort to be any further from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, a key aspect of the location, so the new route was scrapped, and the old road was upgraded.[2]

In the summer of 1971 the resort officially finished, and had a capacity to sleep 6,000 people. It opened in December that year.

Recent developments

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Over the resort's history, many new lifts have been added and upgraded, such as new 6 seater and 4 seater chair lifts, as well as a new gondola, added in 2006. More accommodation has been built around the original 70s structure, and many bars, restaurants and shops have been established.

The access road to the Mediterranean coast has also been constantly improved by removing corners and adding bridges and tunnels. It is now very possible to make the drive in less than an hour and a half from the nearest city of Nice. There is also a regular bus service from many surrounding areas, with ticket prices very low, at around €1.00, making day trips amongst locals attractive and commonplace.

The 1993 Tour de France and 2024 Tour de France used Isola 2000 as a stage finish,[3] and the 2008 Tour de France also passed through the resort.

On 23 March 2008, Isola hosted various slalom stages for the Championnats de France de Ski 2008 (the 2008 French ski championships).[4]

Ski facilities

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Lifts

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Isola 2000 currently has 2 gondola lifts, 9 chairlifts, 10 button lifts and 1 funicular, with a total capacity of about 20,000 pph.[5]

Piste

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The resort has over 120 km of piste, consisting of two main ski areas. There are 7 green runs, 21 blue runs, 11 red runs, and 4 black runs. The resort is considered by ski guides to be well suited for families, beginner and intermediate level skiers.[6]

At 2000m, the resort is one of the highest in the Alps. This, with a favourable micro-climate, ensures fairly reliable snow cover, and in December 2007, Isola 2000 was the resort with the most snow cover in France. However, when required, there are over 210 snow cannons to guarantee skiable conditions.[6]

The resort also has a snow park, including jumps and rails, 3 km of cross-country ski piste and downhill racing facilities.

The resort

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Architecture

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The buildings in the resort are mainly clustered around the original purpose-built structure from the early seventies. This complex incorporates much concrete in its design, and is considered by most visitors as an ugly building. However, there have been many smaller structures built around it, which are more akin to traditional wooden chalet style. As the resort is very high compared to other resorts, there are very few trees at the station altitude and above.

Dining and nightlife

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The resort has a handful of bars and restaurants. It has been noted by some guides that the resort has limited night life.[6]

See also

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  • Auron, Isola 2000's neighbour ski resort, part of the Stations du Mercantour group

References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Isola 2000 is a purpose-built in the southern , located in the department within the commune of Isola, at the end of the Tinée Valley near the Italian border and the Col de la Lombarde pass. Situated between 1,800 and 2,603 meters elevation, it features 120 kilometers of slopes across three sectors, with 20 lifts providing access to a mix of 75 kilometers of easy terrain, 35 kilometers of intermediate runs, and 10 kilometers of difficult pistes, including a dedicated snowpark at 2,300 meters for and . The resort, which operates from early December to late April, benefits from a high-altitude location ensuring reliable snow cover and panoramic views extending to the , while also serving as a summer destination for and . Developed in the late 1960s and early 1970s as one of the southernmost ski areas in , Isola 2000 originated from a 1965 initiative by British investor Peter Boumphrey, who identified the site—formerly Italian royal hunting grounds ceded to France after —as ideal for a new resort. Unlike nearby traditional villages, it was constructed from scratch on 168 hectares of purchased land, funded by the Investment Trust, with initial studies completed by 1967 and full development accelerating through the 1970s to create a modern, self-contained village at around 2,000 meters. This rapid build positioned it as a family-oriented hub in the region, earning the Famille Plus label for its child-friendly amenities, including ski schools, equipment rentals, and events. Beyond like , , and snowshoeing, the supports year-round activities with a bike park, fitness center, and access to the larger "Mercantour" ski area encompassing 255 kilometers of pistes when linked with neighboring stations like Auron. Its southern exposure provides abundant sunshine—up to 300 days annually—contrasting the typical Alpine chill, while the base village of Isola at 870 meters offers historical charm with medieval cobblestone streets and the 14th-century Saint-Pierre church featuring ancient frescoes. Night skiing is available on select slopes, and the resort emphasizes through natural snow preservation and controlled development within the protected Mercantour area.

Geography and Location

Site and Elevation

Isola 2000 is situated in the commune of Isola within the department of southeastern , positioned in the southern at the edge of the and in close proximity to the Italian border. This high-altitude setting places the resort amid rugged alpine terrain, where it serves as a gateway to diverse natural landscapes, including forested valleys and glacial peaks characteristic of the region. The resort's base sits at approximately 1,800 meters (5,906 ft) above , with the skiable terrain extending up to a of 2,610 meters (8,563 ft) at its highest point. This provides a vertical drop of 810 meters (2,657 ft), enabling a range of experiences across varied altitudes that benefit from the area's reliable cover due to its elevated position. As the highest ski area in the department, Isola 2000 capitalizes on this topography to offer consistent winter conditions, distinguishing it from lower resorts in the vicinity. From the upper reaches of the resort, visitors are afforded panoramic views encompassing the distant Écrins massif to the north and extending southward to the , with additional vistas of the and Argentera massifs framing the horizon. Approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) from , the resort's location facilitates accessible travel from the coastal region while immersing skiers in an elevated alpine environment far removed from Mediterranean lowlands.

Access and Surroundings

Isola 2000 is primarily accessible by road from Nice, approximately 70 kilometers away, via the A8 motorway exiting at Saint-Isidore, followed by the D6202 and D2205 roads, with a drive time of 1.5 to 2 hours depending on conditions. Ample parking is available at the resort base for visitors arriving by car. There is no direct rail service to the resort, but travelers can take a train to Nice-Ville station and connect via regional buses such as Line 92 or the seasonal 100% Neige shuttle from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, which takes about 2 hours and costs around €2–€14 round-trip. Private transfers or taxis from the airport offer a quicker 1.5-hour journey for groups. In winter, the D2205 may require and can face temporary closures due to heavy snowfall or risks, particularly on higher passes like Col de la Lombarde. Summer access is generally straightforward and scenic, integrating into the , a renowned itinerary through the southern that passes near the resort without the winter hazards. The resort benefits from a Mediterranean-influenced typical of the , characterized by milder conditions than northern regions, with over 300 sunny days annually and abundant clear skies enhancing the experience. Winter temperatures average between -5°C and 5°C, supporting reliable snow cover from to . Seasonal snowfall at the resort averages 3 to 4 meters naturally, supplemented by extensive to ensure consistent conditions. Situated in the buffer zone of the , Isola 2000 is surrounded by a protected natural environment featuring diverse alpine flora such as meadows and coniferous forests, alongside fauna including , marmots, and . The resort emphasizes sustainable practices, aligning with the park's Esprit Parc National to promote eco-friendly , , and preservation. Nearby, the village of Isola at 870 meters provides a contrasting lower-altitude setting with medieval heritage sites, including narrow stone lanes, historic churches, and traditional architecture, offering visitors cultural excursions just 17 kilometers below the resort.

History

Origins and Construction

The development of Isola 2000 was initiated in the mid-1960s as a response to the economic challenges facing the Isola valley, where traditional agriculture was declining and rural depopulation was accelerating due to migration to urban areas. In 1964, the site at approximately 2,000 meters was selected by the French government's Interministerial Commission for the Development of Mountain Regions (CIAM) from among potential locations in the Mercantour , chosen for its optimal conditions, reliable snowfall, and proximity to the Mediterranean coast. British Olympian Peter Boumphrey, who had identified the area's potential during , led early studies in collaboration with CIAM over two years, culminating in a development plan presented to the Investment Trust (BSIT). The Société pour l'Aménagement et la Promotion de la Station Isola (SAPSI) was subsequently formed by BSIT to oversee the project, with 168 hectares of former pastureland acquired for 3.5 million French francs (about 2.20 francs per square meter), a fraction of its perceived value for . Funding came primarily from governmental sources through CIAM, alongside private investment from BSIT, reflecting France's broader "Snow Plan" to expand alpine tourism infrastructure during the late and . The resort was designed by architects Gérald Hanning and Béri as an integrated station, emphasizing functionality with a base village featuring 330 residential units (including studios, apartments, and bedrooms), three hotels, shops, restaurants, a commercial gallery, , cinema, , and two swimming pools. Construction prioritized practical, compact layouts suited to the harsh alpine environment, drawing on the modernist trends of the era in resorts, where concrete structures were commonly used for durability and rapid assembly over aesthetic elaboration. The first lifts opened in 1971, marking Isola 2000 as one of France's youngest purpose-built resorts at the time, with initial infrastructure including and chairlifts serving early pistes that expanded to around 50 kilometers by the mid-1970s. The resort's creation had an immediate economic impact in the department, generating construction and operational jobs while shifting the local economy from pastoral agriculture to winter , with agreements providing the Isola commune a share of lift pass revenues, a new stable for 80 cows, and community facilities like a and tourist office. This transition helped stem rural exodus and positioned the area as a viable alternative to larger northern destinations, attracting visitors with its sunny microclimate and accessibility from . Later expansions in the built on this foundation to enhance capacity and amenities.

Modern Era and Expansions

Following its opening in the early , Isola 2000 underwent significant expansions starting in the 1980s, driven by growing demand for in the southern . The resort capitalized on national enthusiasm for by developing more luxurious accommodations and enhancing infrastructure to attract a broader clientele, including Olympic athletes who trained there due to its reliable snow conditions. By the , facilities evolved to include amenities, such as the Back to Back Club, while the emphasized family-oriented features and constant development of specialized zones like the snowpark and boardercross tracks at elevations around 2,300 meters. Snowmaking capabilities were progressively expanded during this period to ensure season reliability, with systems now comprising 430 cannons covering 75% of the 120 kilometers of pistes. A key addition was the Méné 4-person fixed-grip , constructed in 2011 to improve access to intermediate terrain between 1,830 and 2,328 meters. In recent years, Isola 2000 has focused on modernization to enhance accessibility and . The 2023 installation of the Kit covered people mover, a short 50-meter link at 1,990 meters with a capacity of 1,000 passengers per hour, facilitates easier movement within the base area, reducing congestion for skiers and families. Looking ahead, the resort plans to replace the existing Pelevos lift with a new 6-person high-speed by the 2027 season, aimed at boosting uphill capacity and integrating better with surrounding terrain. Isola 2000 has earned recognition for its contemporary initiatives, particularly in services. In May 2024, it received the Famille Plus national label, certifying its infrastructure, ski arrangements, and activities tailored for families, including dedicated childcare and events. The resort also hosted the FIS Junior World Championships for from April 10 to 13, 2025, showcasing its boardercross facilities on an international stage and drawing young athletes from around the world. Sustainability remains integral to Isola 2000's operations, given its location within the , a spanning over 2,000 square kilometers that emphasizes conservation. The resort aligns with park guidelines through eco-responsible practices, including secured power supplies via energy flexibility measures from Enedis and a commitment to minimizing environmental impact in lift operations and trail maintenance. Economically, Isola 2000 supports the local community with approximately 326,000 skier visits per season, predominantly from French visitors (73%), fostering employment in tourism and related services in the region. The resort gained additional visibility in 2024 as the finish line for Stage 19 of the , a 144.6-kilometer route from Embrun that highlighted its high-altitude climbs and drew global cycling audiences.

Winter Sports Facilities

Lifts and Snowmaking

Isola 2000 features a comprehensive lift system comprising 20 installations designed to facilitate access across its ski terrain. These include 2 gondola lifts, 7 chairlifts (among them 2 detachable high-speed 6-person models), 10 surface lifts such as J-bars and people movers, and 1 36-person , providing efficient vertical transport from the base at 1,800 meters to higher elevations. The overall system boasts a total transport capacity of approximately 22,917 passengers per hour, with a combined length of 19.2 kilometers, enabling smooth progression for skiers and snowboarders even during peak periods. Notable among these is the Front de Neige 2 , installed in 2023, which spans 190 meters and handles 1,300 passengers per hour to support beginner areas at the base. The Pelevos , a 4-person monocable circulating ropeway built in 1971 by , has a length of 1,034 meters and a vertical rise of 298 meters (from 2,006 m to 2,304 m) with a capacity of 800 passengers per hour. The Pelevos is planned for replacement by a high-speed 6-person in 2027. Complementing the natural snowfall, Isola 2000's snowmaking infrastructure includes 430 snow cannons that cover 75% of the resort's slopes, ensuring reliable conditions for early-season openings in and late-season extensions into . This system supports approximately 90 kilometers of groomed terrain, prioritizing valley runs and key interconnecting paths to maintain accessibility throughout the operational window. All lifts operate daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the winter season, spanning roughly December to mid-April, with adjustments for weather and maintenance to optimize safety and efficiency.

Pistes and Terrain Features

Isola 2000's ski terrain encompasses 120 km of pistes distributed across three main sectors: Front de Neige, Belvédère, and Saint-Sauveur, providing diverse skiing opportunities within the . These sectors connect seamlessly to form a cohesive domain suited for all skill levels, with elevations ranging from 1,800 m to 2,610 m. The pistes are categorized by difficulty to accommodate through experts, totaling 120 km in across 45 runs. There are 7 green runs for novice skiers, 22 blue runs for early intermediates, 13 red runs for advanced participants, and 3 black runs for experts seeking challenging descents. This breakdown ensures progressive progression, with gentler slopes concentrated in the lower Front de Neige sector and steeper terrain higher up in Belvédère and Saint-Sauveur. A key highlight is Tony's Snowland snowpark, situated at 2,300 m in the Marmottes area, which spans 23,000 m² and caters to freestyle enthusiasts with dedicated zones for lines featuring jumps and rails, a boardercross course with banked turns and obstacles, a for aerial maneuvers, and family-friendly beginner areas for introductory tricks. The park is daily groomed and hosts regular competitions, making it a central draw for snowboarders and skiers alike. Complementing this are additional freeride areas offering ungroomed descents for those venturing beyond marked trails. The terrain's variety is enhanced by its sun-exposed southern slopes, which provide warm, dry conditions ideal for extended days, alongside off-piste options in the expansive for experienced adventurers equipped with proper gear. Dedicated trails weave through forested and alpine paths, allowing non-skiers to explore the high-altitude landscape. The winter season generally operates from early December to late April, benefiting from approximately 5 m of natural snowfall that blankets the slopes, further enhanced by daily grooming to maintain optimal surface conditions. Lift access facilitates quick transitions between sectors and specific runs, ensuring efficient coverage of the terrain.

Resort Characteristics

Architecture and Layout

Isola 2000 is a purpose-built village constructed primarily in the , featuring a compact and pedestrian-friendly layout centered around the main at an of 2,000 meters. The emphasizes convenience and accessibility, with buildings interconnected via covered galleries and streets to facilitate easy movement without reliance on vehicles, creating an integrated environment reminiscent of a cruise liner. The architectural style draws from modernist influences, including elements inspired by , incorporating functional structures made of wood and local stone, often in the form of and apartment blocks clustered together for efficiency and protection against alpine winds. This approach prioritizes ski-in/ski-out access over traditional aesthetics, resulting in a modern village that contrasts with the rustic, historic lower village of Isola at 870 meters, while the elevated positioning helps preserve the surrounding lower pastures and natural landscape. Key areas include the central Galerie Marchande, a main building serving as a hub for shops, services, and social spaces, connected by a to the upper Hameau for seamless pedestrian flow. The layout evolved from its initial development around 1971, with significant expansions in the 1980s that added more accommodations and infrastructure, enhancing the resort's capacity while maintaining a contained .

Accommodations and Services

Isola 2000 offers a variety of options, including over a dozen hotels and numerous residences and chalets, many of which provide ski-in/ski-out access directly to the slopes. Notable examples include the 3-star SOWELL HOTELS Le Pas du Loup, which features 299 beds and direct slope access, and the 4-star Chalet Marano Restaurant & Spa, emphasizing luxury amenities in a central location. Residences such as Les Terrasses d'Isola and Chalet Harrod's accommodate families in self-catering ranging from studios to multi-bedroom units, with options for 4 to 10 guests per unit. The resort emphasizes family-friendly accommodations, holding the Famille Plus label awarded in April 2024 and current as of 2025, which certifies infrastructure and services tailored for families with children from 18 months onward, including kids' clubs and accessible facilities. Childcare options include the Piou-Piou club for ages 3 to 6, focusing on beginner skiing in a safe environment, and the Les Pitchouns multi-care center for infants from 3 months to 6 years, with a capacity of 31 children and extended hours from November to April and June to September. Babysitting services are available through select accommodations, while collective housing like Le Foehn in nearby Isola village provides dormitory-style options for groups up to 144 guests, with 144 beds across two buildings. Essential services support visitor needs, with multiple equipment rental shops at the base, such as (three locations offering , , and accessories) and Skiset (three shops with boot fitting and depots), enabling convenient slope access. Ski schools like the École du Ski Français (ESF) and International Ski School (ESI) cater to all levels, from beginners in dedicated areas to advanced snowboard lessons, with group and private options year-round. Free internal electric shuttles operate within the resort from December to April, connecting accommodations, lifts, and facilities on weekdays and weekends during peak periods. Peak season rates typically range from €100 to €300 per night for standard rooms, favoring self-catering apartments for budget-conscious travelers. Accessibility features include wheelchair-friendly paths in key areas and adaptive programs through Handiski, providing specialized wheelchairs and guided sessions for those with reduced mobility.

Dining and Après-Ski

Isola 2000 features around 15 restaurants and eateries catering to a range of tastes, from casual pizzerias and crêperies to spots specializing in mountain specialties such as and . Venues like La Raclette offer traditional Alpine dishes, while Il Rifugio provides Italian options, and Crêperie La Sarrazine serves savory and sweet crêpes in a setting. Slope-side restaurants, including Le Petit and Belvédère, allow skiers to enjoy lunch without leaving the pistes, with menus featuring Provençal-Alpine fusion cuisine that highlights local ingredients from the nearby . For self-catering, the resort includes a well-stocked supermarket and excellent bakeries offering fresh breads and pastries. The après-ski scene at Isola 2000 emphasizes relaxed, family-oriented leisure rather than high-energy , with bars and lounges providing cozy atmospheres for unwinding. Popular spots include Le Refuge, which hosts daily live DJ sets starting at 3:00 p.m. and happy hours, and La Marmotte, a sunny terrace that transitions into a late-night . Other venues like Le Bar et Vous offer laid-back drinks with panoramic views, while Dos Hermanos features occasional concerts and brewery selections, including alcohol-free options suitable for families. Seasonal events enhance the social vibe, such as the on December 21, 2025, and the Snow Duo Trail on December 6, 2025, tying into the resort's focus on accessible winter festivities. Many restaurants and bars accommodate vegetarian and vegan adaptations using regional produce, ensuring inclusive dining experiences.

Summer Recreation

Hiking and Trails

Isola 2000 serves as a gateway to extensive summer opportunities within the , offering a diverse network of marked paths that cater to various skill levels. The surrounding area features over 600 kilometers of trails across the park, with local routes from Isola 2000 spanning easy village loops starting at 870 meters elevation to challenging high-altitude paths reaching up to 2,600 meters. Among the key hikes, the route to Col de la Lombarde provides panoramic views extending into , covering 5.1 kilometers as an easy out-and-back with 350 meters of elevation gain, suitable for hikers seeking scenic border crossings. Another family-friendly option is the trail to Lacs de Terre Rouge, alpine lakes accessible via an approximately 8-kilometer round-trip path that emphasizes gentle terrain and natural beauty. Hiking services include guided tours led by certified professionals such as mountain leader Richard Petitjean, who focuses on and observations, and the Guides Tinée Mercantour group; multi-activity passes incorporating lift access for trailheads typically range from €20 to €30 per day. Trail maps and advice are available at the local tourist office, with the season running from to when snow has melted and paths are fully accessible. Environmental highlights along these trails emphasize the region's rich biodiversity, including opportunities for viewing alpine flora such as edelweiss and spotting wildlife like , mouflons, and amid forests and meadows; paths are rated for difficulty from 1 to 5 based on elevation gain and terrain. Some routes overlap briefly with trails, allowing for combined multi-use exploration. The area hosts themed nature education weeks during summer, attracting hikers interested in guided interpretive experiences within the protected park boundaries.

Cycling and Other Activities

Isola 2000 features a dedicated bike park offering 21.5 kilometers of downhill mountain bike trails, accessible via lifts and suitable for various skill levels, including enduro and VTTAE (electric mountain bike) enthusiasts. The trails, which include green, blue, red, and black routes, descend from the resort to Isola Village with a vertical drop of 1,200 meters along the Chastillon and Guerche rivers, converging on features like the North Shore trail with bridges and jumps. Rentals for mountain bikes, e-bikes, and ATVs are available on-site, along with guided tours, introductory courses, and repair services provided by operators such as Intersport and VTT 2000. Beyond cycling, the resort supports events, including the annual Mountain Duo Trail in the Mercantour area, which features duo or solo races over distances like 9 kilometers with 500 meters of elevation gain (as of 2025). ATV tours allow exploration of the surrounding terrain, with options for discovery days and downhill descents integrated into the bike park infrastructure. launches are available from high points near the Pelevos area, offering tandem flights for breathtaking views of the , while climbs provide equipped routes for intermediate to advanced adventurers in the vicinity. Family-oriented activities include a multi-activity pass granting access to mini-golf, archery stations, and pony rides, alongside summer camps such as Pony Camp for ages 4-12 and Little Trappers Camp focused on outdoor skills (as of summer 2025). These options emphasize accessible, low-adrenaline pursuits to complement the high-energy offerings. Two lifts, including the Combe Grosse and a , operate for biking access from late through early , with pre- and post-season weekends extending availability. Unique cycling routes extend toward the Italian border, such as paths leading to Col de la Lombarde, supported by e-bike rentals to enhance accessibility for a broader range of riders.

References

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