As the sleeping beauty is about to awaken, it seemed important to us to return to its roots, to recall how it came to be. And who better than our historian, Jean-Marie Schneider, to tell you its story? Settle in comfortably and prepare to experience the island of Bendor like never before… Enjoy listening.

History and anecdotes of an island in Bandol

Île de Bendor Bandol

Bendor Island was purchased in 1950 by industrialist Paul Ricard, creator of the pastis of the same name. He renamed it after its former name, "Bendor". Originally, the island was said to have served as refuge from pirates and wreckersIt was then cultivated until the end of the 19th century for the production of flowers – everlastings and daffodils – before being abandoned. From 1950 onwards, Paul Ricard transformed the port and built the small village, hotels, and museums (including the wine and spirits museum, inaugurated in 1958). Paul Ricard, a painter in his spare time and passionate about art, wanted to make this island the meeting place of artistss ... 

✅ To learn more, listen to the audio below:


Are you interested in the history of Bandol?

Parcours historique Bandol

🌞 For more stories, Direction the historical route from our beautiful town of Bandol and our Youtube channel :


2026: The year of rebirth for Bendor

Vue Bendor Bandol Tourisme

A small, (almost) lost paradise located about ten minutes by boat from Bandol, the island of Bendor is an awakening of the senses. While it has enjoyed a well-deserved rest, Its doors will reopen on May 1, 2026What changes have taken place? What activities will now be available? How do you get there and under what conditions? Find out more. all information which will be useful to you on this page:


The exploration continues

Zannier Île de Bendor*****

Le parcours historique

Les Iles Paul Ricard

kelly

Author

kelly

Born in Bandol, after a few trips I returned to my first love, my city. My ambition: To let you discover the most beautiful place in the world, Bandol of course.

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