Nice Côte d'Azur Mountain Press Kit

Isabelle Billey-Quéré

+33 (0)4 92 14 46 15

presse@nicecotedazurtourisme.com

Head of the Press Office

Fanny Mazza

+33 (0)4 92 14 46 55

Fanny.mazza@nicecotedazurtourisme.com

Press relations assistant

Caterina Prochilo

+33 (0)4 92 14 46 17

caterina.prochilo@nicecotedazurtourisme.com

International Press Relations Officer

Anne Berthelot

+33 (0)4 92 14 46 42

anne.berthelot@nicecotedazurtourisme.com

International Press Relations Officer

explorenicecotedazur.com

info@nicecotedazurtourisme.com

Skiing down the slopes with a breathtaking view of the Mediterranean, going on a snowshoe trip in the morning and paddle boarding in the afternoon, dream becomes reality in the Nice Côte d´Azur Metropolitan area. Here, the pure mountain air is only one hour and a half away from the sea air. The proximity of the resorts to the coast offers a large variety of combinations of activities. It is almost unique in France and it is on the Nice Côte d'Azur territory.

Both in terms of fauna and flora, the high country is just as remarkable as its coastal area. Its protected areas such as the Mercantour National Park offer exceptional landscapes. Perched and fortified villages, mountain dwellings, painted chapels, baroque churches complete the richness of this mountain territory.

The 7 ski resorts in the Nice Côte d’Azur region complement each other. Each is unique and offers its own way of experiencing the mountains. Whether the preference is for a sporting, relaxing, discovery or family holiday, everything is possible thanks to the diversity of the offer available. There is something for all tastes and all levels.

The resorts of Isola 2000 and Auron are real training grounds. This is where budding champions push their limits before making the international podiums. In addition to the kilometers of slopes, these resorts have many activities for an active holiday.

For thrills, you will have to go to La ColmianeValdeblore. In addition to its ski area and its yesteryear’s villages, the resort has the longest zip line in France. A unique experience in an exceptional setting.

Holidays are also about taking a break in the fresh air and relaxing. Snowshoeing, medieval villages, hiking, climbing or even a gourmet meal at the top of the ski slopes with a sea view, in the resorts of Boréon, Saint Dalmas-le-Selvage, (for Nordic skiing) Roubion-les-Buisses and TuriniCamp d'Argent, the possibilities are endless! (for beginners / families)

Summertime also offers multiple possibilities to discover the mountains. Here, hiking is the order of the day. Cycling in all forms : road, TT, gravel or electric. Of course, many other sporting and cultural activities are added to the program and form the combination of a successful stay.

Nice Côte d'Azur, Between sea & moutains

At the doorstep of all the European capitals thanks to its international airport, the Nice Côte d'Azur destination offers a spectacular open-air territory between sea and mountains. The breathtaking scenery starts along the Mediterranean and ends at an altitude of over 3000 metres.

From Cagnes-sur-mer to Cap d'ail, passing through Villefranche-sur-mer, Saint-JeanCap-Ferrat and of course Nissa La Bella, the sea will become a favourite playground. The hilltop villages with their atypical alleyways will offer you a change of scenery: Gilette and its historic town or Vence and its cultural heritage... Continue your journey in the high land, an ideal place to recharge your batteries in the Vésubie Valley or in the heart of the Mercantour National Park.

Here, the natural splendours of the coast combine with the riches of its heritage...

From lively towns... to unspoiled coves, fields perfumed with thyme and rosemary... to charming hilltop villages, hiking trails... to majestic snow-capped peaks... from the shores of the Mediterranean to the summits of Mercantour, this territory offers an incomparable quality of life.

With 300 days of sunshine per year, an international airport, prestigous hotels, Nice Côte d'Azur, with 200 years of tourism history, has become legendary and famous throughout the world.

News

Isola 2000

 The snow front has been completely renovated and modernised, with a new tunnel/double-band carpet to facilitate access to the beginners' slopes and provide better circulation for all skiers.

 The ESF snow garden (kids garden) has been moved, redesigned and fitted with two carpets ( one of them a tunnel/carpet) to create a safe and comfortable beginners' area. A new, safer and more comfortable sledge run has also been relocated.

 For powder lovers, there is a new secure and signposted free ride area in the Saint-Sauveur sector.

 A yurt will be set up in the village square: this new living space will host après-ski activities (yoga sessions, wellbeing sessions, evening entertainment, storytelling evenings...).

Auron

 For cross-country skiers, a new groomed route has been designed at the top of the Blainon. Situated at an altitude of 2200m, this itinerary offers a majestic panoramic view.

 The Résidence Prestige Odalys Le Mont d'Auron is a brand new and modern residence open from 9 December 2023.

 The AURON HOCKEY CLUB was recently created and affiliated to the French Ice Hockey Federation. Competitions and introductions open to the public will be organised from this winter season onwards.

The Mountains, differently...

 The new slow tourism trend could have been invented for Nice Côte d'Azur. Getting off the beaten track, trying out smaller, family-friendly resorts with fewer visitors.

The resorts of Roubion-les-Buisses, Saint-Dalmas-le-Selvage, Turini-Camp d'Argent and Le Boréon are perfect places to take a break. They offer a different mountain experience, with less skiing and more sightseeing, hiking and relaxation, so you can enjoy the surrounding nature in immersive mode.

Agenda

Winter

 1st October > La Transhumance – Roubion

Every year at the beginning of October, Roubion revives its pastoral traditions by celebrating the Fête de la Transhumance, with the herds from the Vignols mountain pastures returning to the valley for a well-deserved winter rest. Nearly 2,000 sheep pass through the village...

 2 December > Snow Duo Trail® MERCANTOUR – Isola 2000

An atypical duo race for shared pleasure!

 From 9 December > Christmas market - Saint-Martin-Vésubie

Set up in the village square, the artisans offer their creations as well as delicious local products (soaps, nougats, jams, beers, foie gras, etc.).

 16 & 17 December > "Le Paradis des enfants" Family Week-End - Isola 2000 et Auron

Numerous free offers, preferential rates and activities for children (free ski passes, ski lessons at 10 euros, equipment hire, accommodation and catering). The event supports the cause of Assocation Adrien, giving sick children the chance to ski and do a range of activities in the snow.

 12 & 13 January > 35e e-Trophée Andros – Isola 2000

The e-Trophée Andros, formerly the Trophée Andros, is the French ralycross ice racing championship that has been contested since 1990. The resort is hosting the 3rd stage of the championship.

 24 to 29 January > 12e Les Chefs au sommet - Auron

For the 12th year running, this high-altitude culinary event in Auron celebrates gastronomy with the Côte d'Azur's top chefs.

 February > "Faites de la Montagne" – Saint Dalmas Le Selvage

Two whole days dedicated to discovering and practising outdoor sports under the supervision of mountain professionals, the Mercantour Guides, in complete safety and with respect for the natural environment.

 13 & 14 February > Xspeedskitour Isola – Isola 2000

Initiation followed by a speed skiing tournament open to the public (from 6 years old and at least 3rd star), free of charge and without registration.

 23 & 24 March > DJ Festival - Auron

7 ski resorts in the Nice Côte d’Azur territory

4 major labels

Snow & skiing in the Nice Côte d’Azur area Nice Côte d’Azur

Snow & skiing in the Nice Côte d’Azur area

If the mountains represent 80% of the Alpes-Maritimes territory, its coastal area is very close to ski resorts. This proximity is ideal for exceptional experiences.

In addition to this asset, the Nice Côte d’Azur resorts are have something for all types of clients thanks to an extensive and very varied ski area. In addition to skiing, many options are offered to holidaymakers who can enjoy an unusual stay between the sea and the mountains. All this territory is easily accessible thanks to the work of the communities who have worked for years to open up the valleys and improve their infrastructure.

To take advantage of this incredible offer, distance is not an issue. Very accessible, these ski resorts are less than two hours by plane from major European cities. They are linked to Nice Côte d’Azur airport by numerous bus services. The ski slopes are therefore close by.

GUARANTEED SNOW:

Thanks to the investments made over many years by local authorities, the ski resorts of the Nice Côte d'Azur metropolitan area now benefit from quality and guaranteed snow in almost all of their ski areas: 80% in the Isola 2000 ski area, 60% in Auron, 80% in La Colmiane.

1H30 FROM NICE 700KM OF SLOPES

300D OF SUN

7 SKI RESORTS IN THE NICE CÔTE D’AZUR METROPOLITAN AREA

 Isola 2000

• All ski resort

• Land of champions

 Auron

• Chic and authentic.

• Label green Station.

• Family Plus Label.

 La Colmiane–Valdeblore

• Sports and sensations

• France's largest zip line

 Saint Dalmas-le-Selvage :

• Natural and authentic Nordic resort in the heart of the Mercantour National Park

 Roubion-les-Buisses

• Nature skiing and village resort

• Unforgettable panoramas

 Saint-Martin-Vésubie :

• Nature in the heart of the Vésubie

• Nordic resort

 Turini-Camp d’Argent

• Proximity and family

• Incomparable sea/mountain views

Access

Short transport times:

 1 hour 20 minutes by plane between Paris and Nice. Nice International Airport, the second largest airport in France after Paris Airport. It connects the main European cities in 2 hours.

 1 hour 30 minutes (by car or bus) from the coastal area to the ski resorts. Everything is done to give easy access to the ski areas of the Alpes-Maritimes resorts, through the development and maintenance of the roads in the valleys of the department.

Ligne d'Azur bus

The bus is the ideal way to get to all the resort villages and, more generally, to get around the whole area. There are regular bus routes with fares of €1.50. More info: https://www.lignesdazur.com/fr/

More exceptional, the helicopter option also exists.

https://www.nice.aeroport.fr/vols/ helicopteres

Did you know?

It is possible to see the sea from the top of the slopes! On a clear day, skiers can see the sea from three resorts: Isola 2000 (at the highest point of the resort), Roubion les Buisses and Turini-Camp d'Argent (from the Col de Turini). A curiosity which offers exceptional landscapes.

A land of champions

In the area, Isola 2000 and Auron are real training grounds. The former is popular with the sporting elite, with many champions and national teams taking up residence here in various disciplines such as skiing, snowboarding and cycling. Its sports club is 6th in the country!

Auron, on the other hand, hosts the training sessions of the Sports Club and the Inter Club of Nice. The neighbouring village of Saint Etienne de Tinée is home to the Alpes-Maritimes ski and mountain section in its college.

Resort champions

Julia PEREIRA, Snowboard Cross

Mathieu FAIVRE, Giant Slalom

Maxime MONTAGGIONI, Para-Snowboard Cross, banked slalom.

Ken VUAGNOUX, Snowboard Cross

Christophe FERRIER, Ice driving

Germain GRANGIER, Trail

Katie SCHIDE, Trail

Also: Tony RAMOIN, Nastasia NOENS, Olivier GITTLER, Marion PEREZ, Margot BAILET, Bruce RULFO, Marion BERTRAND, Karen SMADJA.

The next generation: Norick POLCHI, Valentin EMERIC, Justine TONSO.

Not to be missed on the way: National Sport Museum in Nice

The National Sports Museum is a must on the road to the resorts. It is certified “Museum of France” since 2014.

Located in the heart of the Allianz Riviera Stadium since 2013, it is THE French museum devoted to sports and has one of the most important collections in this field. More than 50 years after is creation – it was in Paris before Nice-, the only national museum dedicated to sports in France has a background thanks to its large collection of 45 000 pieces and 400 000 documents.

In addition, it devotes showcases to skiing and winter sports. Amongst other things, you can discover skis that belonged to the great French skiing champions, bobsleigh, ice skating… as well as competition equipment.

A little History

In 1889, the Chevalier de Cessole, a humanist from Nice, a bibliophile and a passionate photographer, discovered the Maralpine mountains and was dazzled by the Madone des Fenestre. He never stopped trying to help the gentry of the time discover this little-known wealth.

Thus, hiking, skiing, sledging, ice skating are many excuses to share his wonder with his friends. His stories and photographs remain, and today they constitute an incredible collection.

In the 20th century, winter sports developed and the Alpes-Maritimes followed with a certain craze.

In 1937, the 3rd cable car in France was intalled in Auron.

In 1938, the French Ski Championships, with international athletes, were held for alpine skiing in Auron, ski jumping in Beuil and crosscountry skiing in Valberg.

Even, today, the 2022 French Ski Championships were held in Auron and Isola 2000.

Note: the complementary and uniqueness of "sea/mountain" has long been prized. In 1933/34, the "Altari Trophy" combined skiing in the morning in Beuil and swimming in the afternoon in Nice.

Four major labels

FAMILLE PLUS

 Auron/Saint-Etienne-de-Tinée already holds this this reference label since 2019 in the Mountain category

“Famille Plus” is the one and only national tourist label, qualifying the welcome and services offered to families with children in French tourist towns. It is recognised by the Ministry of Tourism. It aims to provide the best possible response to the expectations of families with children aged 18 months and over staying in mountain resorts, by improving the resorts' services and facilities while making it easier to identify the offer made to families.

 Several resorts are in the running

 Saint-Martin-Vésubie is a "Family +" holder in the Nature category and respects the same commitment to welcoming families.

 More info and booking: familleplus.fr/

HANDI SKI 06

HANDI SKI 06

The ski system allows disabled people to practice this sport in optimal conditions of safety and comfort.

Several tandem skis have been acquired and distributed in the resorts of Auron, Isola 2000 to be made available free of charge to disabled people. The same applies to the resort La Colmiane, with a dual ski and two kart skis.

 Information and reservations: : handiski06.com

STATION VERTE

France's 1st eco-tourism label

Saint Etienne de Tinée-Auron : This label highlights the resort's eco-responsible approach. It offers a welcome that resonates with the area and activities in harmony with the environment.

Dans ce label, il existe la distinction Village de Neige. Elle a été attribuée à Saint Martin Vésubie et La Colmiane-Valdeblore. Ce sont des petites stations authentiques qui offrent au moins 3 activités montagne.

 More info and booking: stationverte.com

THE VILLAGE RESORTS OF THE SOUTHERN ALPS

The concept of the Southern Alps Resort Villages is unique: the conviviality of a year-round village life, a southern character, a human and family dimension and a notion of simplicity and diversity in the activities offered, combining the essentials of winter holidays in the mountains, rich in emotions and encounters.

The criteria for membership of the charter are as follows: historic village, less than 2000 inhabitants, actions to raise awareness of environmental protection, reasonable facilities for skiing, some accommodation, restaurants and shops, and a tourist organisation.

 It concerns following villages: La ColmianeValdeblore, Roubion-Les-Buisses, St-DalmasLe-Selvage, Saint Martin Vésubie - Le Boréon

GUIDE ASSOCIATION TINÉE MERCANTOUR

All the guides are state-qualified and invite you to share their passion for the mountains, to get to know them better, to respect them and to practice them more safely. In addition to the more traditional outings to discover natural areas, they offer:

 winter sylvotherapy outings: introspectionlooking inward

 nature with the little ones from 2 to 5 years old: games and discovery of nature in the snow

 night trapper outings for older children

 evening snowshoeing/raclette outings in the day shelters

 weekend snowshoeing/raclette in the barn at Pra Gazé

NEW IN AURON:

Crossing to the hamlet of Roya from Auron either by ski touring or snowshoeing in partnership with the Roya gîte which will welcome hikers for lunch.

https://guidestineemercantour.com/

Good deals

AURON ISOLA 2000 SAINT DALMAS-LE-SELVAGE

For a ski vacation: For Day Skiing:

 Family pack

10% discount on packages from 3 consecutive days upwards, on the purchase of at least 4 packages of the same duration, including at least 1 adult category package and 2 children aged between 5 and 16.

Validity: all season. Payment in one transaction, max 8 people. Discount online at auron-skipass.com/ en/ and isola2000-skipass.com/en/ and at ski lift checkouts. This promotion can be promoted all year round.

 Flash sales

50% discount on 3, 5 and 7 day packages

Validity : not applicable during the Christmas and February school holidays or on weekends, except for the 7-day pass. Online offer (auron-skipass.com/en/ and isola2000-skipass.com/en/) every Tuesday evening at 8pm, please note that stock is limited. This promotion is available in January/March and April.

 Hotel discount

Discount coupon provided exclusively by a partner hotel entitles the holder to 20% off the public rate of the packages.

Limitation: 2 to 5 consecutive day packages in all categories

Periods of validity of the offer: all year round excluding weekends and the Christmas and February school holidays. This promotion can be promoted all year round.

 Fidéli’Cimes

Paid subscription (like a motorway pass) entitling the holder to discounts of 10-30% on all ski days during the season and to free days Offer available only online https://isola2000.fidelicimes.com/ or https://auron.fidelicimes.com/: details of the advantages on the website This offer is available from the end of November to the beginning of January

 Nice Price

Day package with prices evolving by stages according to demand and dates. Starting price - 50 % on the day rate. Valid: weekdays except school holidays. Offer available only online auron-skipass.com/en/ and isola2000-skipass.com/en/ This promotion can be promoted all year round.

Day and stay offer:

 April offer from 1st to 18th April 2022

1 adult package purchased = 1 child package (5-11 years) free of charge (same duration/same dates/ same transaction) Available at the ski lift cash desks and online for the stay packages. This offer is activated at the beginning of February.

 Free access to the 2nd ski area

When you buy a holiday pass for Auron or Isola 2000, you get free access to the other ski area. This offer applies automatically to all full-price ski passes purchased online or at the ski lift cash desks. This promotion can be promoted all year round.

 NEW FOR THIS SEASON

2023/2024, new "Young people 18-25" and "Teenagers" tariffs

Extension of the "teenager" tariff up to and including the age of 17 and creation of a "Young people 18-25" tariff for 18-25 year-olds. This new "Young people 18-25" rate allows you to ski at the same rate as "Teenagers". As with all rates, proof of age may be requested at the ticket office or when accessing the lifts. This promotion can be promoted all year round.

 “LE PARADIS DES ENFANTS", 16 & 17 December 2023 in Auron and Isola 2000

Numerous free offers, preferential rates and activities for children (free ski passes, ski lessons at 10 euros, equipment hire, accommodation and catering). As a reminder, Auron has the Family + label.

 La Colmiane

25 € reloadable card and privilege card: nominative card valid for one year allowing you to benefit from numerous advantages for summer and winter activities. A 4-card "Family" package (2 adults + 2 children) for the price of 3 cards. The "Ski & Fly" offers a Tyrolienne flight for €20 per day pass purchased.

 Roubion les Buisses

A special "Front de neige" package for beginners at 10 €/day or 9 € preferential rate online. And 1 hour of skiing offered to beginners on Saturday morning.

New: book ski passes online with the purchase of a rechargeable card for 2 € directly on the website: www.roubion.com

A preferential day rate is applied: 18 €/adult and 14 €/child under 12 years old. Free for children under 5 and over 70 years old with a compulsory ID.

 Vallée de la Vesubie

The Pure Montagne card offers access to numerous winter and summer activities in 7 towns of the Nice Côte d'Azur Metropolitan area.

The Vésubie and Valdeblore Valleys offer a unique sport or relaxation proposal in all seasons, such as the Tyrolienne of La Colmiane, the Vesubia Mountain Park in Saint Martin Vésubie, the Via Ferrata in Lantosque. Pure Montagne® offers on 15 km radius around Saint Martin Vésubie, sports and play activities, indoor and outdoor, discoveries, contemplation, relaxation. https://www.puremontagne.fr/en/

In slow tourism mode

Slow tourism is an invitation to take the time to admire our surroundings, to break away from everyday life and to reconnect with nature.

In the Nice Côte d'Azur resorts, it has its place and here are some ideas.

Slow tourism is above all about getting off the beaten track, trying out smaller, familyfriendly and less crowded resorts. In this respect, the resorts of Roubion-les-Buisses, Saint-Delmas-le-Selvage, Turini-Camp d'Argent or Le Boréon are perfect for taking a break. They offer a different mountain experience, with less skiing and more sightseeing, hiking and relaxing to enjoy the surrounding nature.

The Nice Côte d'Azur resorts offer "green" activities that can be enjoyed in "slow" mode. Cross-country skiing, ski touring, snowshoeing, sledging, and also farm stays, heritage visits, unusual experiences... With such a varied offer, there is something for everyone.

It also means reconnecting with nature. Urban life is often compared to a whirlwind, so why not take a moment to get away from it all and discover the great outdoors? This is possible with the Mercantour National Park, ranked by several media as one of the 10 most beautiful parks in the world!

Discover local agriculture in a whole new way: meet the artisans, visit their vast estates and taste the products made directly on site. The experience is unique: places unknown to the general public, hidden spots, shops that only the locals know...

"Slow tourism" is also about living new experiences: a tree house, a bubble to sleep under the stars or even a yurt. Away from the traditional hotels, gîtes and tourist residences, these new types of sustainable establishments also offer all the comforts you need for a break based on well-being, pleasure and disconnection.

From Nice, the natural corridor of the main valleys -Var, Tinée, Vésubie- invites you to discover "the high country" dotted with ridges, forests and perched villages. A fiercely preserved natural wealth, these magnificent protected areas attract hikers and naturalists, taking them to meet the marmot, the chamois, the bearded vulture and... more difficult to see, the famous wolf...

Discover the big wildlife!

From the wildlife of the Mercantour to the wolves of the Parc Alpha, there are plenty opportunities to experience another Côte d'Azur and get up close and personal with Europe's great wildlife. The mountain guides are here to explain the right things to do and give you the keys to a better understanding of this protected area and its inhabitants.

Situated at the crossroads of multiple climatic, geological and altitudinal influences, the Mercantour National Park is home to a wealth of exceptional diversity. Large and small mammals, birds, reptiles and insects - the fauna of the Mercantour is extremely varied. It is made up of several hundred species, some inherited from the last ice ages. A diversity that even the most discreet walkers can observe.

The Haute-Tinée bat site is one of 13 Natura 2000 sites in France, including 12 terrestrial and 1 marine, covering 34% of the territory.

The diversity and richness of this exceptional and sensitive environment are an invitation to discover it with respect.

Active mountain summer version

Mountain enthusiasts are looking for new, immersive and more authentic experiences. They are also keen to discover themselves by trying out activities and even putting themselves to the test.

For example,

 Hiking, what better way to discover nature,

 Cycling, mountain biking or electric mountain biking, all categories of riders can find something to suit them, in line with the region's "Terre de Vélo" (Land of Cycling) policy,

 Hiking, what better way to discover nature,

 Bike Park, try out mountain biking on a track with modules of varying difficulty,

 Climbing, outfoor or indoor, is an extremely popular sport in the area,

 Accrobranches, for all levels, from the very young to the experienced athlete,

 Summer sledging, very impressive for its speed,

 Via Ferrata, there are many with different levels of difficulty, in incredible landscapes, canyons, on the side of cliffs...

 Via cordata, a series of monkey bridges, zip lines, lianas and abseiling...

 Tyroliean traverse, to feel like a bird at 120 km/h on 2. 663 m,

 Canyoning and aquarando, water sports in spectacular settings,

 Kayaking and paddle, on the water,

 Horse riding, horse trekking offers another view of the mountains,

 Walks accompanied by animals, dogs, donkeys,...

 Escape games, there are many to choose from, with varying degrees of difficulty

 Trails, there are many to choose from, with varying degrees of difficulty,

 Boot camp, a team challenge on an obstacle course in the forest...

 Paragliding, seeing the peaks and valleys from above remains an accessible dream.

And also

 Tennis, Golf, pingpong, Archery and, of course, pétanque are all activities that you can try out on your holiday,

 Well-being, spa, Relax'form, fitness, dance and, of course, the swimming pool are the perfect complement to your holiday,

Not forgetting the other activities :

 Le Vertige d'Auron, take a step into space and enjoy a unique panoramic view of the Mercantour,

 Trout fishing, another way to experience time,

 Sleigh rides & dog trekking, accompanied hikes,

 Transhumance, celebrated in all the villages, where tradition is revealed in all its modernity,

 A visit to the farm, in the ever-growing quest for meaning, is a much-appreciated activity.

Active mountain summer version

Nice Côte d'Azur and its 7 resorts offer the very best for winter sports fans. When sunshine rhymes with snow... The Metropole offers you the great outdoors and opens the doors to a preserved natural environment, usually covered in snow from December to April.

So,

 Speed flying or paragliding on skis, what better way to see the summits,

 Speed riding, very similar to the previous one but a little more ski in the apprehension,

 Snowkite, on skis or snowboard, the sail is a towing element and offers another form of gliding,

 Introduction to laser biathlon, and why not dream of the Olympic Games,

 AirBoard sledge or tubing, sledging on a cushion of air, great fun with different sensations from classic sledging

 Snake’gliss, sledging in "group" mode, huddled together, or Snooc, snowshoe sledding

 Snowscoot, inspired by BMX, a bit like a snowboard steered by handlebars,

 Bike Ski, in the spirit of the tricycle for greater stability, perfect for beginners, moonbike in electric version,

 Ski joëring, skiing pulled by a horse, a real experience to be continued at the farm with a visit and lunch...

 Dog sledding, Musher, a real encounter with the animal before going for a walk,

 Boot camp, a team challenge on an obstacle course in forêt

 Tyroliean traverse, to feel like a bird at 120 km/h on 2. 663 m,

And more

 Night in an igloo, build your own igloo with guides for a unique experience,

 Tackle a natural icefall…

And let's not forget motorised sports:

 Snow scooter or quad biking on snow two ways of practising motorised sports in slippery conditions,

 Ice circuit, if it provides sensations, this learning experience can prove very useful in winter,

 Heli-skiing, out of the ordinary, being dropped off by helicopter at the top of a peak and skiing downhill

Most of these activities have a summer version, such as Tyrolean traverse. Of course, hiking and cycling are at the top of the list, but they are followed by:

 Accrobranches, for all levels, from the very young to the experienced athlete,

 Summer sledging, very impressive for its speed,

 Via Ferrata, there are many of varying difficulty,

 Canyoning and aquatic hikes.

 Walks accompanied by animals, dogs, donkeys, horses, etc.

 Trails, of which there are many and of varying degrees of difficulty.

The ski resorts of the Nice Cote d'Azur Metropolis ISOLA 2000, THE FREESTYLE RESORT FOR CHAMPIONS

Sea view

www.isola2000.com

50 years ago

In the winter of 1971/72, the resort of Isola 2000 was inaugurated. The project of a resort started in 1947, inspired by the col de la Lombarde and the military road, today the French-Italian border. Discovering the wonderful site of Chastillon, a strategic location with a microclimate and an exposure that favours maximum snow cover, an English consortium decided, with the approval of the Municipal Council, to set up a winter sports resort there. The concept was innovative and pragmatic: a "Mountain Town". It quickly became a resort for performance and sporting pleasure, in winter and in summer.

The summit of the Southern Alps, the resort of Isola 2000 offers for a holiday full of emotions, in all seasons, just one and a half hours from the Côte d'Azur. The resort opens the doors to a rich cultural and natural environment between the Mercantour National Park and the Parco naturale Alpi Marittime.

The high-altitude village of Isola is the little extra soul that proves its attachment to its heritage and to the land, with craftsmen and producers to discover. The chestnut, emblematic here, the cowherds... and even the saffron.

Accommodation is made up of 12,000 beds, including 3,000 commercial beds, hotels, residences, furnished accommodation, etc.

Opening of the resort: 4 DECEMBER 2021

Subject to weather conditions.

SKI AREA

• Downhill skiing

• 120 km of slopes which vary between 1810 and 2610 m in altitude.

• 42 slopes including 3 black, 11 red, 21 blue and 7 green.

• 20 ski lifts including 2 gondolas, 10 ski lifts, 7 chair lifts and 1 funicular.

• 1 hill reservoir: 150,000 m3 - 430 snow cannons - Snow-covered area: 120 hectares.

• Handrails and snowpark with sound system at 2300m altitude. Boardercross on the Mouflon piste.

• The resort is equipped with high-performance facilities for snowboarding.

THE 3 SPOTS FOR SURFERS!

Tony's Snowland

Named after the Vancouver Olympic bronze medallist, this snowpark is fun and aesthetically pleasing, providing a unique identity and visibility as the area has been moved to the centre of the ski area. Modules for all levels are proposed: Slopestyle / Big air / Beginners area. On the Mouflon piste, the Boardercross is the venue for numerous national and European competitions and invites you to enjoy some intense and fun skiing.

The Biopark

This is a snowpark in a natural environment, in the trees, with wooden obstacles. The course consists of 8 modules, hidden in the forest. More than 140 m long for 12 modules on 3500 m2. 2 zones for beginners and experts.

Back to Back

The most successful snow club in France.

Created in 1991, the BACK TO BACK club is the specialist in snowboard competition and has accumulated more than a hundred national titles, being today one of the most successful clubs in France.

Over the years, Back to Back’s members have included snowboarding leaders and some of the first national and international champions, including Tony Ramoin, who finished 3rd in the Vancouver 2010 final, and Julia Perreira, who won the silver medal in Korea in 2018.

Isola 2000 is now a reference resort in the world of snowboarding.

TO DO IN ISOLA 2000

Winter (December – April)

• Ski touring in the Lombarde area

• Nordic skiing - 5km loop classic and skating

• Snowshoeing trails by day and night

• Groomed pedestrian routes as at La Lombarde

• Tobogganing area

• Ice driving school

• Musher

• Snowmobile

Summer (June – October)

• Hiking

• Bike park - VTT (new mountain bike and family trackor accompanied itinerary with initiation course)

• White wolf sled, cani-marche and hiking with a dog to discover the landscapes of the resort

• Swimming pool located in the heart of the resort

• Aquavallée aquatic centre

• Mini-golf

• Elastic trampoline

AURON, TECHNICAL AND AUTHENTIC

www.auron.com

Auron, a village resort located at an altitude of 1600m, was created in 1937 and offers the largest skiable area in the department with 135 km of slopes. It combines both pleasure and technique. The central village square is home to shops, boutiques and bars and is the meeting point for skiers.

The resort is attached to Saint Etienne de Tinée. This village has experienced the same historical vicissitudes as the County of Nice. Its heritage is rich with chapels and churches built from the 15th to the 18th century, as well as museums, and a lake which is very attractive in summer. The accommodation is made up of 16,000 beds, 2,900 of which are in hotels, furnished accommodation...

Opening of the resort: 11 DECEMBER 2021

Subject to weather and COVID health crisis.

SKI AREA

• Downhill skiing - 135 km.

• 60% covered by artificial snow.

• 4 sectors: Las Donnas - Sauma longue - Demandols - Lieuson.

• 43 runs: 8 black, 16 red, 16 blue and 3 green.

• 19 ski lifts: 2 cable cars, 1 telepulley, 9 chair lifts, 3 pole lifts, 1 cable car, 3 conveyor belts (reserved for the ESF)

• Auron snowpark 1600: 3 zones: beginners, intermediate and advanced.

SPORT & HEALTH

The health course and its Vertige. The Vertige d'Auron is a short walk on the edge of the forest and is equipped with fun and sports workshops as well as a vertiginous footbridge. It offers a panoramic view of the Haute Tinée valley and the Mercantour peaks, which can be identified thanks to the orientation tables. Also to be discovered is the fitness area with its cardio-training equipment overlooking our mountains.

Mountains and well-being start in Auron

The largest ski area in the department and an alpine ski resort par excellence, Auron does not neglect nonski activities. Aware that wellbeing depends on nature and the environment, numerous outdoor activities are offered to recharge your batteries: meditative walks, yoga and meditation hikes, hiking and spa afternoons at the 4* Chalet d'Auron hotel.

Ski area linked to St Etienne de Tinée

Situated at an altitude of 1140 m, the village of St Etienne de Tinée, 7 km from the resort, is directly linked to the Auron ski area by the Pinatelle cable car. 1 € for pedestrians or free for beginners who can easily learn to ski thanks to a cable car. More experienced skiers can quickly reach the magnificent and emblematic Demandols sector.

TO DO IN AURON

Winter (December – April)

• Ride in a “dameuse” with dinner in a high altitude restaurant

• Themed snowshoe outings (yoga/ meditation, wildlife observation, igloo building, orienteering...)

• Nordic walking

• Meditation walk

• Airboard sledging (going downhill on an inflatable sled)

• Tubing

• Snake'gliss

• Cable car evacuation exercise

• Boot camp: team challenge on an obstacle course in the forest

• Yoga course

• Visit to the snow factory

• Cable car evacuation

FAMILY HOLIDAYS

Family+ resort

Auron has been awarded the Family+ label in 2019 and does everything possible to make it convenient and more welcoming for families: 2 snow gardens for learning to ski with the Piou-Piou club, a toboggan run, a Family park, free ski lifts, a new day-care centre for children aged between 6 months and 3 years, as well as numerous events and nature activities to make your holidays more enjoyable.

Discover the job of the first-aid workers

Throughout the winter, once or twice a week, the ski patrols of the resort invite the public to discover their job and their passion for the mountains. At the opening or closing of the slopes, they answer questions.

Want to take some height?

Take the department's one and only cable car. The mythical "Las Donnas" cable car is the only one in the department. Inaugurated in 1937, and modernised in 1980, it is the 3rd largest cable car in France. It takes skiers and pedestrians up to an altitude of 2400m to offer a breathtaking view of the resort and the surrounding peaks. For the more intrepid, every week during the school holidays, cable car evacuations are offered with a vertiginous descent of 50 m.

Summer (June – October)

• Archery

• The accrocube; accrobranche on a 3 dimensional structure 8 meters high

• Water - free access swimming, possibility to rent a kayak for ½ hour

• The health trail; short walk ideal for children

• Outdoor Escape Game

• Pony ride on the Chastellarès plateau

• Hiking

SAINT DALMAS LE SELVAGE, NATURE AND AUTHENTICITY RESORT

http://saintdalmasleselvage.fr

SKI AREA

• 50 km of marked trails for crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing

• 4.5 km of cross-country ski trails (1 loop for experienced skiers, 1 loop for beginners)

• Ski touring: 4 ascents

• Ice climbing: 2 waterfalls of 100 m and 150 m

About twenty minutes from Isola or Auron, the very charming village of Saint-Dalmas-Le-Selvage is the highest village in the Alpes-Maritimes (1,347m-916m) and has 80 inhabitants. 2/3 of its territory is in the Mercantour National Park. Its activity is essentially tourism and agriculture. Don't miss the 18th century church and the 15th century chapel, its sundials and its typical high mountain houses.

Its practice of sport is in harmony with nature, it was the "slow tourism" village before the invention of the term.

The accommodation is made up of 300 beds, including 166 commercial beds, guest rooms, furnished gîtes.

Gourmet snowshoeing weekend in a mountain chalet.

In an old mountain chalet completely renovated located above the magnificent village of SaintDalmas-Le-Selvage. Ideal for an evening with friends or family. Guides Tinée Mercantour: http:// guidestineemercantour.com/ Argos Rando: https://www.argos-rando.com/sejours/week-end-au-chalet-dalpage/

Two highlights not to be missed:

"Faites de la Montagne" 5th and 6th February, a weekend of initiation to mountain activities

Snow trail of St Dalmas at the end of February: 10 km course and 20 km course

TO DO À SAINT DALMAS LE SALVAGE

Winter (December – April)

• Cross-country skiing (3km loop)

• Snowshoeing

• Ice climbing in the Gialorgues valley, mainly for the initiated

• Walk on the Lavoutre circuit (1h30, easy)

• Hiking on the Pras plateau (7 km, 2.5 hours, medium)

A little tourism

The two splendid icefalls of Gialorgues, 100 and 150m high, a world shaped by water and cold accessible to all. An activity to be practiced with professionals. Nordic walking (2 sectors: Anelle and Gianto) - 50 km of itineraries and icefalls. Crosscountry skiing loop of 3km. Ski touring.

Summer (June –October)

• Climbing; Junic rock limestone site

• MOUNTAIN BIKING

• Cycling; Col de la Bonette route

• Hiking; Gialorgue pass and lakes on the edge of the Haut Var (duration 4 h, medium difficulty)

ROUBION-LESBUISSES, THE RESORT WITH UNFORGETTABLE PANORAMAS

Sea view

www.roubion.com

SKI AREA

• New: A 4-seater chairlift and a free snow carpet for sledging and tubing.

• Downhill skiing - 30 km.

• Nordic skiing - 12 km

• 20 runs: 2 black, 12 red, 4 blue, 2 green.

• 6 ski lifts: 5 ski lifts and 1 chair lift, 1 snow line.

Roubion-les-Buisses is a "natural" ski village resort, which combines the charm of perched villages with slopes laid out in the middle of larch trees. From the Mont Pommier at 1920 m altitude, the Mercantour mountain range can be seen from a breathtaking 360° panorama and, on clear days, even Corsica. It is ideally situated 70 km from Nice, or just a little over an hour from the mainland, between 1410 m and 1920 m. The village with its painted gates is an opportunity to take a walk towards breathtaking panoramas.

The gîtes: flats in the village or in the resort, duplexes or chalets, are labelled "Esprit Parc national" and were recently renovated. There are about 300 beds.

• Cross-country skiing: 12 km of trails (groomed for skating) with 2 loops (1 red and 1 blue).

• Toboggan runs.

TO DO IN ROUBION

 Snowkiting is practiced either with a snowboard or with skis pulled by a kite. It allows you to evolve in the mountains, in untouched and clear areas, plateaus, passes, valleys, fields and allows you to walk and go up the slopes with very little wind.

 Snowshoeing, at the Col de la Couillole, towards the Pommier, Giarons... in a virgin site, on a hilly relief and in full sun.

 Florian Sassier, qualified "Guide Tinée Mercantour", organizes family outings / snowshoe outings for children with the discovery of the natural environment in winter as in summer...

Winter (December – April)

• Downhill skiing; 1 hour individual ski course at 42 €.

• Snowshoeing

• Sledging

• Snowkiting

Summer (June – October)

• Hiking

• Canyoning in the Moulin valley, 2 km from the Roubion valley

• Electric mountain biking (TREK 3 bike sizes S to L)

• Via Ferrata climbing equipment available for hire

• Mountain biking 18 € per day

LA COLMIANEVALDEBLORE, INTIMATE AND FAMILY-STYLE

www.lacolmiane.com

SKI AREA

• 80% snow cover on the slopes

• Alpine skiing: a 30 km area from 1400 to 1800 m altitude.

• 20 runs: 2 black, 8 red, 6 blue and 4 green.

• 6 ski lifts: 1 chairlift, 5 ski lifts.

• Snowmaking: 8 runs and children's garden.

Valdeblore is situated between the Vésubie and the Tinée at 1500 m. Vast forests cover a large part of its territory.

The commune is made up of 4 villages: la Bolline (1000m), la Roche (1100 m), St- Dalmas (1300 m) and Mollières (1600 m), in the heart of the Mercantour Park and finally a summer/winter resort "La Colmiane" (1500 m - 1800 m) with 30 km of slopes.

It is the resort for sensations between Tyrolean traverse, via ferrata, summer tobogganing (4 seasons in 2022), paragliding, accrobranche for all levels... Everyone can test themselves in almost extreme conditions.

The villages have preserved their historic architecture. Note: the church of St. Croix, one of the last in Europe built on Carolingian plans in 977

The accommodation is made up of 1,062 market beds in 80 lodgings

• 34 km of snowshoeing itineraries.

The largest zip line in France.

The flagship attraction of La Colmiane-Valdeblore is obviously the zip line. Over 2,663 m, in 2 sections, it starts from the top of the Pic chairlift in the heart of the resort. With nearly 300 m of difference in height covered in less than 2 minutes, the speed on the descent can go up to 120 km/h or even 130 km/h on the most sportive part. To be done solo or in duo, lying down for unforgettable sensations.

TO DO IN LA COLMIANE

Winter (December – April)

• Ski Joëring

• Ski touring

• Body Spirit Concept

• Relaxation area: sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, cardio room, massage offer

• Giant Tyrolean traverse with 2 lines

• Laser biathlon

• Sledging

Summer (June –October)

The Mercantour farm: visits and courses in the farm, horseback riding, horsedrawn carriage rides or sleigh rides.

• Excursions

• The giant Tyrolean traverse with 2 lines

• Summer sledging; sledging on a monorail with safety belt, ideal for children

• Accrobranche

• Paragliding

• Ane de Blore; hiking with donkeys

SAINT MARTIN VESUBIE,

THE LITTLE SWITZERLAND IN NICE

The ski resort: LE BOREON

www.saintmartinvesubie.fr

SKI AREA

• Cross-country skiing - 30 km of trails from 1500 to 1800 m

• 3 snowshoe circuits in the Boréon forest (18 km)

• Skiing or snowshoeing at the Col de Salèse, the Madone de Fenestre, and the Goldolasque

• Climbing of an artificial ice fall of 15 m height for all levels.

Saint-Martin-Vésubie is an authentic village in this valley with a rich heritage and "Famille +" label. 8 km away, the Boréon, around its lake (1500 metres), opens onto the heart of the Mercantour National Park. It is a real place of exception for lovers of mountaineering, Nordic skiing and climbing or hiking in summer.

The accommodation consists of 1 hotel-residence "Pure Montagne Resort" with 34 rooms + spa (2021) and 1 hotel with 12 rooms, making 46 rooms.

A Family Village +

Alpha, the Mercantour wolf park. (reopening in spring 2022)

Alpha, Le Parc des Loups du Mercantour was born with the aim of recounting all aspects of the recent and past confrontation between man and wolf. Because Alpha - the international name for the dominant couple in a wolf pack - is not just another reserve of wolves in captivity. It is an animal park set in a grandiose setting and, because of the originality of its scenography, has no equivalent in the world.

Vesubia Moutain Park

This complex, managed by the UCPA, offers sports and leisure activities for learning, improvement or professionalization purposes.

Climbing area: A climbing wall with 12 to 24 routes varying in height from 11 m to 13 m and a 4-metre-high bouldering wall; an innovative "fun climbing" area of 150 m², a high adventure course with 12 workshops: zip line, monkey bridge, nets, etc. Indoor swimming pool of 250 m2 and wellness area of 100m2

TO DO IN BOREON

Winter (December – April)

• Ski touring

• Snowshoeing

• Artificial ice cascade with 4 sides 18 metres high

• Nordic skiing with about twenty kilometres of marked and groomed trails

• DVA park equipment for training in the use of the Avalanche Victim Detector

• Toboggan run available

Europe's first indoor canyoning area. A series of workshops developed through the three reception pools located at different levels, each equipped with a waterfall.

• The slides: 2.5 m long and between 1.5 and 3 m of free fall,

• The jumps: between 3 and 5 m high,

• Abseiling: 8 m high.

• The underground canyoning course is made up of 3 water areas, including a counter-current river and an underground lake, 2 waterfalls, one of which has an 8 m high climbing wall, and caves with obstacles.

Summer (June –October)

• Trail station with unmarked course

• Canyoning and aquarando

• Climbing (Boréon climbing tower and Vesubia Mountain Park wall)

• Horse riding and hiking

• Mountain biking with the possibility of location

• Fishing course

• Tennis

TURINI CAMP D’ARGENT, THE CLOSEST RESORT TO NICE

Sea view

www.puremontagne.fr/fr/activites-etsites-touristiques/turini-camp-d-argent

One hour from the coast, the resort of TuriniCamp d'Argent is located at the entrance of the Mercantour National Park. It is close to the famous Col de Turini, well known for the Monte Carlo Rally, the Paris-Nice and which hosted the first mountain stage of the 2020 Tour de France. 1700 m to 1920 m.

Particularly suitable for young children, many children have discovered snow here, Turini-Camp d'Argent is THE "family resort" of the Vésubie. It has the mildest climate and allows you to picnic in the mountains in winter, facing the sea. The accommodation consists of 2 hotels and 5 chalets, making 54 rooms.

Resort opening: 18 DECEMBER 2021

OPENING HOURS: 9:00 AM TO 4:30 PM

SKI AREA

• Downhill skiing: a 15 km area

• 4 downhill ski runs: 1 green, 2 blue and 1 red.

• 3 ski lifts.

• Tobogganing area

• Ski schools at weekends and during school holidays

TO DO IN TURINI-CAMP D’ARGENT

Winter (December – April)

• Snowshoeing

• Sledging

• Downhill skiing (4 km of runs, 3 lifts, and 5 runs)

Summer (June –October)

• The deval'kart; all-terrain kart with a slope and circuit

• Trotin'Herbe all terrain for children

• Tubbing sledge; giant inflatable buoy

• Hiking and mountain bike tours

Agenda

 « La Transhumance » > October – Roubion

 Snow Duo Trail® MERCANTOUR > 4th December – Isola 2000 –

 Family Weekend > 11th and 12th December - Auron

 33rd Andros Trophy > 7th and 8th January – Isola 2000

 10th « Les Chefs au sommet » > 15th to 21st January - Auron

 « We Are Family » LGBT inclusive festival open to all > 28th and 29th January – Isola 2000

 « Faites de la Montagne III » > 5th & 6th February Saint Dalmas le Selvage

 Snow Trail > 27th February – Saint Dalmas le Selvage

 Xspeedskitour Isola initiation then speed skiing tournament > February holidays – Isola 2000

 Snow Day Challenge by La Ligue contre le Cancer > 6th March - Auron

 Mountain Wellness Festival > April - Auron

Winter Summer

 « La Transvésubienne » > May – La Colmiane

 L’Ultra Trail (UTCAM) > June – La Colmiane

 Earth and Mountain Festival > late June – Isola 2000

 Electrobike Festival > late June – Auron

 « Faites de la Montagne estivale »

> early July – Saint Dalmas le Selvage

 Duatlon (Cycling + running) > July - Auron

 Auron Mountain Trail > July – Auron

 MTB Trial Festival > August – Isola 2000

 Trail des Cimes > August - Auron

 Nice Côte d'Azur by UTMB® > 22nd to 25th September

Nice Côte d'Azur Metropolitan Area

B.P. 4079 - 06302 NICE CEDEX 4 info@nicecotedazurtourisme.com Follow us:

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Crédit Photos : Plan sur la Comète, J. Kelagopian, agence Média H 265, I. Fabre, Le courtier Pure Montagne, @shutterstock Exécution : Jean-Elie Trujillo (www.jeanelietrujillo.com)