Hôtel des Pèlerins
Getting Here
The hotel is accessible on foot only.
Here is everything you need to know.
The access road is closed to the public
Following storms Alex (2020) and Aline, the road leading to the sanctuary from Saint-Martin-Vésubie has been closed to traffic by prefectoral order. Access is on foot only — which is very much in the spirit of the place.
Hiking routes
Official IGN topographic map — marked trails
Study your route before you set off. In the mountains, conditions can change quickly — dress and equip yourself accordingly.
01 — Via the Madone valley
▼
From Saint-Martin-Vésubie, follow the closed road on foot to the sanctuary — the easiest route, through the valley… Show ▼
01 — Via the Madone valley
▼From Saint-Martin-Vésubie, we recommend parking at the barrier closing the Madone des Fenestre road. From there, simply follow the road on foot to the sanctuary — the easiest route, where you can enjoy the calm and wild nature along the river.
You can also cycle this route (note: you are in the core zone of the National Park — cyclists must stay on the road).
If you start from the village of Saint-Martin-Vésubie itself, add around 30 minutes.
02 — Via the Pas des Ladres
▼
From Le Boréon, climb to the lac de Trecolpas, cross the Pas des Ladres and descend to the sanctuary… Show ▼
02 — Via the Pas des Ladres
▼From Le Boréon, park at the car park at the end of the road past the Vacherie du Boréon. Head on foot towards the lac de Trecolpas, climb to the Pas des Ladres, then descend to the Madone des Fenestre sanctuary.
A more demanding route, but perfect for taking in the wild landscape of the Mercantour.
03 — Via the Cime du Pisset
▼
From Le Boréon, climb to the Cime du Pisset for an exceptional panorama over the massif, then descend… Show ▼
03 — Via the Cime du Pisset
▼From Le Boréon, park at the car park at the end of the road past the Vacherie du Boréon. Head towards the Refuge de la Maïris, climb to the Cime du Pisset, then descend to the Madone des Fenestre sanctuary.
This is technically the shortest route, but it begins with a steep climb to the Pas des Roubines before a gentler descent to the sanctuary. The reward: a magnificent panorama over the Mercantour massif.
04 — Via the Pas du Mont Colomb
▼
From La Gordolasque, head up towards the Refuge de Nice before turning off towards the Pas du Mont Colomb… Show ▼
04 — Via the Pas du Mont Colomb
▼From the Gordolasque valley, park at the car park at the end of the road. Head towards the Refuge de Nice, then turn off at waypoint 416 before the refuge towards the Pas du Mont Colomb. Descend from there to the sanctuary.
A more demanding route, but perfect for experiencing the mineral landscape of the Mercantour massif.
Location
Hôtel des Pèlerins — Madone des Fenêtres, Saint-Martin-Vésubie
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know before you come.
Can I drive to the hotel?
No. The access road to the sanctuary is closed to traffic by prefectoral order following storms Alex and Aline. Access is on foot only. (Exemptions apply only for professionals and farmers.)
Where can I park?
If you are coming from Saint-Martin-Vésubie, you can drive up the Madone des Fenestre road to the barrier where it closes — this can save you up to 30 minutes of walking. Please park without blocking access for professionals and emergency vehicles.
What is the simplest route on foot?
The simplest route is to follow the closed road on foot from Saint-Martin-Vésubie. You can enjoy the peace of the Madone valley without any traffic.
Can I have my luggage delivered or get a lift?
No, we do not offer this service.
Is the route suitable for children?
Yes. Following the closed road from Saint-Martin-Vésubie, the route is straightforward and suitable for children.
What if the weather deteriorates on the way?
In the mountains, conditions can change very quickly. If the weather turns, head back without hesitation and seek shelter. Always check the Météo-France mountain weather forecast before setting off.