Emerald green in summer and snow-covered in winter, the majestic mountains seem to be willing to shelter this magnificent region, so severely affected by Storm Alex in October 2020. Nicknamed “the Little Switzerland of Nice” and favoured as a holiday destination since the 19th century, Saint-Martin-Vésubie is sadly still bearing the scars of a devastating natural catastrophe from five years ago. But it is now the time for renewal. The re-opening of this high-end resort is thus a testament to the resilience typical of this Alpes Maritimes area.
Nestled in the heart of nature, the Pure Montagne Resort & Spa is a haven of peace. Whether on your own, with family or friends, come here to breathe in the fresh air and recharge your batteries. Even if the coast is just an hour’s drive away, housed in its stylish wooden chalets, you feel far away from the French Riviera—a truly unique experience, much appreciated by its many regulars. Visiting almost every weekend, they are making the best of luxury resort comfort without the hassle of owning a second home.
“We opened shortly after the storm’s passage with the purpose of breathing new life into the valley and attracting a high-end clientele. This resort is designed to be contemporary, with its chalets equipped with comfortable suites accommodating up to eight guests and rooms for sharing with friends. In total, we offer some 200 beds. The atmosphere is very alpine, with the interiors reminiscent of the Nordic ski resorts, Courchevel in particular,” explains its director, Christine Brayer, delighted to have built a loyal clientele particularly appreciating the joys of winter.
When the mountain peaks are covered in snow, what’s better than immersing yourself in a warm, relaxing outdoor jacuzzi? Furthermore, the resort is expanding its offer to accommodate yet another type of tourism, with two smaller meeting rooms and a seminar hall. Open all year-round, the Pure Montagne intends to perpetuate its success, erasing the scars left by the tragic weather phenomenon. A cosy lounge bar is offering cocktails and light snacks every day and live music on a Saturday night. This is a perfect place to meet in a warm and elegant atmosphere, a true haven to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
The “Pure Altitude” at the “Pure Montagne Resort & Spa”
Born in the luxurious “Les Fermes de Marie” in Megève, the innovative, natural and original “Pure Altitude” has now arrived in Saint-Martin-Vésubie. “Three key words are guiding me in developing each of the “Pure Altitude” skincare products. First, rarity—that of natural ingredients extracted under optimal conditions to preserve all their benefits. Second, advanced cosmetics technology, at the forefront of botanical skincare, bringing intense cell regeneration. And finally, the pleasure—the one that women seek, the one I had in mind when creating this line.” Convinced of the exceptional edelweiss properties, the founder of the brand, Jocelyne Sibuet, is favouring mountain plants to create her sophisticated and eco-friendly skincare line.
The massages offered here are in line with this philosophy. Highly attentive to individual needs, the local therapists provide personalized treatments catering to any specific tensions, energy levels and preferences. Gentle, flowing movements, targeted pressure on specific body areas, with a focus on your face and scalp are all part of the experience. All of this is done using specially selected oils providing deep hydration and promoting relaxation. Whether before or after the massage, the spa is inviting you to relax in an indoor or outdoor jacuzzi with breathtaking mountain views.
A private area is specially designed for children. The Nordic Spa thus offers some 200 square metres entirely dedicated to well-being and relaxation. Several spaces joining water, wood and stone evoke a sense of one-on-one with nature. There is a large terrace, sauna, steam room, ice fountain, sensory shower and heated loungers—everything you need to leave the hustle and bustle behind and let yourself be enveloped in a cocoon of tranquility.
Pure Montagne Resort & Spa
219, Avenue Marquise de Saravalle, Saint-Martin-Vésubie, France
Tel: +33(0)4 23 04 00 00
Winter in the heart of the “Little Switzerland of Nice”
Washed by the springs gushing in every direction, Saint-Martin-Vésubie is nestled in a cosy mountain valley. This hinterland village has been promptly nicknamed “The Little Switzerland of Nice”. Ever since Nice became part of France in 1860, it has indeed been a magnet for the aristocracy from all over Italy, Great Britain and the French Riviera.
A scenic little canal is flowing through the village since the Middle Ages. As early as 1893, Saint-Martin-Vésubie has also been one of the first to adopt public electric lighting. Its history is thus a reflection of the fruitful exchanges between France and the Duchy of Savoy, and later, Italy, evidenced by its ramparts, fortified gates and ancient buildings. A 12th-century parish church and two chapels (that of the Black and White Penitents) represent its remarkable architectural heritage. Nestled on the heights above, the Sanctuary of Madone de Fenestre is the site of a centuries-old pilgrimage.
Highly prized for its pleasantly cool yet moderate altitude of just under 1,000 metres, “Little Switzerland of Nice” has always been a popular summer destination. Over the years, however, thanks to a wide range of activities catering for all ages, it has also got a reputation of a prime winter sports resort.
Skiing at La Colmiane
Perched a few kilometres north of Saint-Martin, La Colmiane is a family alpine ski resort, welcoming its guests in a truly natural setting, at the gateway to the Mercantour National Park. Here you get to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snow scooting and snowshoeing. For younger family members (from 3 years on), “Les P’tits Loups” children’s area is equipped with a magic carpet lift and three levels of beginner slopes—a fun and smooth introduction to skiing. An exceptional zip line, the longest in France, and many other activities are also out there for you to enjoy. Soar over the ski area in complete safety at a top speed of 120 km/h—a truly unique experience for the most daring thrill-seekers.
The Boréon Nordic Ski Centre
Nestled at an altitude of 1500 metres, at the gateway to the Mercantour National Park, the Boréon Nordic Ski Centre is invariably attracting a number of mountain lovers. This exceptional location for mountaineering and climbing enthusiasts offers an impressive variety of fun winter activities: seven cross-country ski trails for classic skiing or ski skating (a new gliding technique), safe snowshoeing routes and for the most adventurous, an impressive four-faced 15-metre-high ice climbing wall.
The Alpha Wildlife Park
Not far from the Mollières valley, where the wolves were first observed to return to France in 1992, lies a unique wildlife reserve. Set within the boundaries of a national park, the Alpha Park is promising us a rare encounter with the legendary predator in an exceptional setting. Based between 1,500 and 1,800 metres above sea level, regardless of the season, the Alpha Park is offering its visitors an immersion into the life of a wolf pack. This is a chance to spot the wolves in their natural environment from the specially designed observation grounds. This immersive experience in the heart of the wilderness truly promises unforgettable emotions.
The Vésùbia Mountain Park
Thanks to its design and a wide range of activities on offer, the Vésùbia Mountain Park in Saint-Martin-Vésubie stands out as a unique European venue. Here you get to enjoy your adventures indoors, sheltered from the elements. Swim, climb, jump, take a walk at altitude, rappel down a canyon, work on your balance, play sports, relax, have fun, grab a snack and meet new people… Designed for all ages, this indoor mountain activities playground is offering limitless possibilities: a large climbing wall or a spacious swimming pool for relaxation, water jets, a hydromassage bench and more. Perfect for the entire family, particularly on a rainy day.
Culinary Excellence At Its Finest: A Refined Cuisine At “L’Air du Temps”
Seamlessly blurred into the modern and elegant “Pure Montagne” resort architecture, “L’Air du Temps” is offering us refined and generous gourmet cuisine. Managed independently, this restaurant was created by local chef, Julien Matheret, who had started at the Hôtel Negresco alongside chef Jean-Denis Rieubland. “That kitchen helped me discover my passion for fine cuisine. A little later, I joined the “Relais des Merveilles” team in the Gordolasque valley, where I was truly fascinated by the local recipes. This simple, authentic cuisine is still an inspiration to me.”
Julien Matheret’s menus are bridging the gap between the typically sophisticated luxury hotel cuisine and the hearty, comforting dishes reminiscent of his grandmother’s cooking and Vésubian roots. Happily working with local specialties evoking his childhood such as cured meats, ravioli and rabbit, he is masterfully reinventing the now rare snails, veal liver or lamb brain.
“At first, it was just a proof to myself that I was capable of creating all sorts of new dishes. And then I realized I wanted to focus on simplicity. Creating all those dishes on my own, I was only using local products and few ingredients so as not to mask the natural flavours. What I offer is local cuisine with a touch of fantasy.”
Following the seasons and the produce available from his local suppliers, the chef is changing his menu every two months. His credo? Being modern without ever resorting to the artificial.
“L’Air du Temps”
Open every evening except Monday, Saturday and Sunday lunch. Closed from November 15 to December 15.
Tel +33(0)4 23 04 00 10
