The small ski resort in the Alpes-Maritimes is about to be renamed Gréolières 1400, a decision that has not gone down well with the locals.
It's now official: Gréolières-les-Neiges is to be renamed Gréolières 1400, a decision taken by the commune's mayor, who is aware of the lack of snow his resort could face in a few years' time as a result of climate change.
"If we keep the name and there's no more snow, we'll look thin. We need to show that we want to transform the ski resort into a resort that is open all year round, that doesn't just rely on the snow product".explained Marc Malfatto.
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While the more nostalgic will still be able to see the wording "les Neiges" in small print, from now on Gréolières 1400 will be displayed everywhere. A decision that is far from shared by all the residents.
Contacted by telephone, a shopkeeper told us that a petition could be launched. According to him, the decision was taken without consultation, at the sole whim of the municipality.
Gréolières 1400 relies on four-season tourism
A Gréolois for three generations, this restaurateur believes that the name change sends out the wrong signal for tourism in the resort.
This news was originally due to be announced in the spring as part of a major communications campaign, but ended up being made official more quickly following leaks.
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The Sophia Antipolis Agglomeration Community resort is now focusing on four-season tourism, a necessity for all ski resorts, as Julien Lizeroux told us.
With its chairlift open during the summer, this resort in the Alpes-Maritimes intends to develop mountain biking, in addition to its tree climbing park and a rail sledging project which could soon see the light of day.