Isola 2000 is a great choice for a long weekend: short transfers and snow-sure skiing with easy access to varied slopes that reach over 2600m.

Conceived in the late 1960s by British entrepreneur, Peter Boumphrey (who represented Great Britain in the 1948 Winter Olympics in St Moritz), Isola 2000 is a classic post-war development, built first and foremost for the convenience of the skier. The area borders the Mercantour National Park where wolves have been recently re-introduced - hence the name of our chosen hotel here - Pas du Loup .

The resort itself is at 2000m with 120 km of mostly intermediate slopes, both above and below the tree line, but also plenty to amuse advanced skiers as well as one of the best village nursery slopes we have ever come across. With 22 lifts and over 40 pistes, there is something for everyone.

If you want to explore further afield, the smaller area of Auron is just a half-hour drive. Here there is a further 135 km of piste (covered on the same lift pass), 21 lifts and 42 pistes to enjoy. Isola is renowned for its exceptional natural snow record - but is also supplemented by over 90km of artificial snow cover - guaranteeing good conditions throughout the season. It also boasts over 300 days of sun a year. There is an eclectic mix of restaurants for lunch - try La Vallete on the St Saveur sector which serves stylisy, mountain dishes and is famous for the donkey that lives in the stable underneath. Chez Madame Phok offers Chinese and Vietnamese cooking, or you can return to the Front de Neige and the popular Cow Club . Nighlife is low-key but there are several bars and two nightclubs to choose from - Le Cuba Loca being the most popular. Try the Diva Bar or the Figaro lounge, both in the four-star Hotel Diva or Le Crocodile . For dining out, we recommend La Bergerie .