A time to travel

photo credit: Steve-h

Costa del Sol, in southern Spain, is often called the Sun Coast. The turquoise waters of the Mediterranean, long swaths of quartz-white beaches and a year round sunny climate make this section of Spain a top-tier tourist attraction. Stretching from the Gibraltar Strait to eastern Grenada, most of the Costa del Sol is in the province of Malaga, which is part of Andalusia.

People flock to Costa de Sol for the gentle aquamarine waters and relaxing hours on the beach. Benalmadena, Fuengirola and Mijas are the most famous resorts in the area. Costa del Sol is also well-known for its excellent golf courses.

So Many Beaches, So Little Time

The Costa del Sol is an endless stretch of beautiful, sugary white beaches. Some of the highlights are Cabopino Beach, Playa de Saladillo and Nikki Beach. A Moorish watchtower stands guard over the Cabopino Beach, creating an air of romance and mystery. Parking is free at Cabopino. This is rare on the Costa del Sol. The sand dunes and palm tree are plentiful.

The more adventurous holidaymaker can head to the western edge of the beach, as it has a nudist area. The Playa de Saladillo is relaxed and laidback. There are beach bars and restaurants and therefore it hosts a lively crowd in the evening. Nikki Beach has a reputation as being a playground for the rich and famous. There are beachfront hammocks that you can rent. The restaurants at  Nikki Beach are also excellent.

Isola 2000 is one of the ski resorts found in the Southern French Alps, and is a prime destination for skiers in the region. In fact, many travelers head from around the world to take advantage of the beautiful mountain scenery and fresh powdered trails for which the area is known. The area has grown in popularity since its creation in 1960 due to being a stop along the Tour de France, as well as a site for the 2008 French Ski Championships.

Skiable Area by the Numbers
The entire skiable area available in Isola 2000 comes in at just over twenty square kilometers. The elevation at the highest point is 2,600 meters. There are 43 runs in total, with the majority being geared towards somewhat experienced skiers on red and blue trails. There are however 7 green trails for absolute beginners, as well as 4 black trails for a real challenge. There are several lifts, including gondolas and chair lifts, and there are seldom long lines for waiting except during the busiest of French holidays. Night skiing is available one certain special days throughout the winter season.

Apres Ski in Isola 2000
The town itself does offer quite a range of activities, dining and shopping to enjoy after a full day on the slopes. The resort boasts a range of cuisine, focusing on authentic meals from Italy, Germany and France to satisfy the many international visitors it receives. However, there is a limited nightlife to enjoy, with a large focus on quiet drinks after dinner.

Getting to Isola 2000

Most visitors to Isola 2000 arrive via Nice using public transport. International visitors will generally get flights to Nice and use shuttle buses which depart from the airport completing the 90KM journey to Isola 200 in around 1 1/2 hours. The train is also an option, again transiting via Nice train Station