You're surely aware that on August 12, 2026, our sun will keep its date with the moon. And the least we can say is that these two lovebirds don't do things by halves. On the agenda: an eclipse, no less. So, if you're looking for THE spot to admire this otherworldly encounter, here are all our tips for observing it from Bandol (and its immediate surroundings) 🌒
IMPORTANT: Information regarding glasses sold at the Tourist Office.
The glasses sold by the Tourist Office display an incorrect ISO standard (ISO 12312-1 instead of ISO 12312-2). After checking with the manufacturer, it appears to be a printing error on certain batches. The distributor has been correctly identified. The Helioclipse glasses have a printed QR code that does indeed correspond to ISO 12312-2.
However, to avoid any risk, you can return them and you will be reimbursed.
Some tips for using glasses, whatever type they may be:
– Check that natural light and artificial light (bulb) do not pass through the filters.
– Check that the filters are neither scratched nor detached.
– The observation should not last more than a minute or two.
– Even with glasses, you should never observe through an optical instrument. They will not protect you if you use them to look through binoculars, a telescope, or a spotting scope: the light concentrated by the instrument on the protective filter would certainly damage it.
⚡️ Lightning navigation:
- The viewpoint in the city center
- The viewpoint under the pine trees
- The view at sea
- The viewpoint with 1,000 stars
- Where can I buy special eclipse glasses in Bandol?
cosmic flash
First of all, a few rules and guidelines that can't hurt.
😎 Common sense: Do not attempt to view the eclipse without glasses.A special pair of shoes, appropriate for the event, is absolutely mandatory. We will advise you further down in the article where to find them in Bandol.
🧭 Geographically speaking: from France, the eclipse will be visible by looking west, starting at 19:15 PM, with totality occurring between 20:10 PM and 20:30 PM. Therefore, there's no need to strain your eyes all day trying to observe the phenomenon. Enjoy your vacation, your day at the beach, and Look up at the end of the day on the west side.So, Marseille.
⚠️ No unnecessary risk: don't venture out just anywhereEnjoy the spectacle in nature or on private land. Please respect both the environment and the posted signage. Remember, when the eclipse is total, it will be dark or nearly so. Your visibility will therefore be significantly reduced.
Now that everything has been said, ready for the real subject of this article?
1. The viewpoint in the city center
Deferrari Landscape Park – Bonaparte Corniche
Vacationers and residents staying in the city center, there's no need to take your car to climb the peaks, head towards of the brand new Deferrari landscaped park on the Bonaparte CornicheThis one is located at the end of the port towards Renecros beach, past the car park and the stadium.
From the benches, rocks, and other improvised seating in this place and at this point, you will have a direct view of the horizonThis area is usually popular for its sunsets and its unobstructed views all the way to the Bec de l'Aigle in La Ciotat. You will therefore understand why we invite you to head there for this celestial encounter.
2. The viewpoint under the pine trees
Still aiming to find the most distant points in the sea offering a view to the west, we set course for Pointe Encanet. This begins at the end of Barry beach to end up just behind theThe Bando Tennis Club1. Be aware that the path can be a bit steep (roots, dirt, stones) and the area won't be able to accommodate the whole town. But if you arrive early, you'll certainly find a small patch of rock to sit on.
✅ Important information: the Encanet point is a marked natural areaPlease respect the wooden barriers put in place to protect the vegetation. And of course, Take your cigarette butts and rubbish with youThis will allow us to avoid a fire and land and sea pollution. To do this, Portable ashtrays are being distributed. regularly on the Tuesday market by SittomatAs for your waste, a simple bag that you have brought with you will suffice!
3. The view from the sea
So, we bet you hadn't thought of this one. It's the company Atlantis who had the wonderful idea of offering its passengers a special eclipse outingThe perfect opportunity to get away from the city lights, break free from the limits of our paths and admire a spectacle like no other from an unusual place.
This astral cruise will leave the port of Bandol at 19:30 pm To be precise. On board, you'll find everything you need for a great time: sunglasses provided, a sea breeze, and a complimentary aperitif. This might just be the best observation spot of the year.
! ️ Reservation strongly recommended.
4. The 1,000-Star Viewpoint
Charmettes Beach – Six-Fours-les-Plages (With l'Gros Cerveau Astronomical Observatory)
Yes, this astral pearl is not found in BandolBut frankly, how can I give you the best advice for this eclipse without telling you about this magical place? The Big Brain Astronomical Observatory is perched, as its name suggests, at the top of the Gros Cerveau massifin Ollioules. Every year, special events are organized during the season to allow members of the association to share their knowledge with curious locals. Thus, great evenings of stargazing are offered every week during the summer.
You can bet these sky enthusiasts weren't going to miss this eclipse. They'll see you there! on August 12th, on the Charmettes beach in Six-Fours-les-PlagesStarting at 16:30 pm, join us for an end-of-day dedicated to the sun. A lecture, observation, and astronomical discussions await you. And the icing on the cake: The event is free with open entry and no reservation required. Go for it!
Where can I buy special eclipse glasses in Bandol?
Before pitching your tent to be the first at the best spot in town, remember to buy special glasses to observe the eclipse safely. To do this, Many retailers are playing along and provide you with this type of equipment:
- The opticians city: OUT OF STOCK.
- Some ready-to-wear boutiques and accessories in the city center: OUT OF STOCK.
- Some pharmacies : OUT OF STOCK.
- Tourist office: OUT OF STOCK.
🌚🌝 Now you have no more excuses: the spot, the glasses, and even a few backup plans The action is in your hands. All that's missing is for the weather to cooperate. We're keeping our fingers crossed for clear skies and wishing you a truly beautiful encounter between the sun and the moon. After all, it's not every day you witness a rendezvous that's billions of years in the making.
PS Share your best holiday memories with us on Instagram by tagging us in your posts @bandoltourismeofficiel ????
A summer in Bandol
