Isola

Discover Isola, a hilltop village and famous mountain resort

90 km from Nice and 20 km from the Italian border, Isola is a medieval village perched at an altitude of 870 m, nestled at the confluence of the Tinée and Guerche rivers.

Higher up, 17 km away, is Isola 2000, a renowned ski resort in the Southern Alps, open in both summer and winter. This dual identity—authentic village and modern resort—makes Isola a popular destination for its unspoiled landscapes, heritage, and outdoor activities, just a stone's throw from the Mercantour National Park.

An alpine setting combining heritage and nature

Founded in the Middle Ages, Isola developed around its Saint-Pierre church, with its 14th-century frescoes. The village, with its cobbled streets and stone houses, retains its mountain charm.

A local anecdote tells that Isola was once a crossing point for smugglers between France and Italy, who took advantage of the steep paths that are now popular with hikers.

A stroll through the village

The route starts in the central square, lined with cafes and houses with slate roofs. You will soon reach the church of Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, then the chapel of Saint-Roch, nestled at the entrance to the village.

As you stroll around, you will discover ancient fountains, vaulted passageways, and facades decorated with sundials. Below, the Tinée river provides a soothing backdrop, especially in spring when the melting snow increases its flow.

Must-see places

Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Church

Listed as a historic monument, remarkable for its medieval frescoes and bulbous bell tower.

Saint-Roch Chapel

A building that protects the village, traditionally linked to epidemics and pilgrimages.

Heritage Museum

Housed in an old house, retracing the mountain life of yesteryear.

The Isola 2000 resort

Located 17 km from Isola Village, Isola 2000 is a famous resort at an altitude of 2,000 m to 2,938 m (Resort) in Malinvern, in the Mercantour massif. With Mediterranean sunshine and exceptional snow cover, the Isola 2000 resort, built in the early 1970s, has become a paradise for fans of trendy snow sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and freeriding!

A 120 km ski area, 45 slopes for beginners and experienced skiers, 22 ski lifts, 160 snow cannons, 1 snow park (with half-pipe). Ski & Surf School (110 instructors). Heliskiing, ice driving, ice rink, walks, snowmobiles, snowshoes, heated swimming pool (Isola Village), Aquavallée (Isola Village). Tourism is now also active in summer: tree climbing, hiking, climbing and many summer attractions for your vacation.

VLocal life and events

• Market: every Thursday morning, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., local products and crafts.

• Patron Saint's Day of Saint-Pierre: festivities at the end of June, with mass, procession, and dance.

• Colmiane-Isola Trail: nature race connecting two alpine resorts.

• Summer cultural events: concerts, night markets, village festivals.