Isola 2000

Elevation

Top: 2610 m
Vertical Drop: 810 m
Bottom: 1800 m

Longest Run: 5 km
Skiable Terrain: 49 hectares

One of the most southerly resorts in Europe and certainly in France, Isola was established in 1971 by English investors. Located on the Italian border, at the edge of the Mercantour Park, most of the original station is one long snaking building, making it possible to access most accommodation, shops, eateries and other facilities without going outside. The name Isola means both 'island' sloping land in two language derivations, whilst 2000 is the usually snowsure height in metres at this latitude.

Isola also benefits from Mediterranean climate and a relaxed Italian attitude to life. The resort is a popular weekend destination for residents of the Cote d'Azur who fill the narrow, winding roads up on Friday evenings and Saturday mornings and back on Sunday evenings - best avoided if possible.

The Chastillon plateau where Isola is located was a key strategic point in World War II and there are many military remains lying under the snow there today. The modern border which put Isola on the French side was established at the end of the war.

An Englishman P Boumphrey had the idea of establishing the ski resort there in the late 1960s as many other third generation French ski stations were being built. He got the support of the local community, particularly the area's mayor who was looking for ways to stop the exodus of local people with the declining availability of work on the land.
.