On vacation (and in life in general, for that matter), there are two types of people: those who take their time and love to lounge on their towel; and those who are more like hares than tortoises and couldn't go a single day without their daily run. If you belong to the second category, good news: in Bandol, you won't have to choose between sport and vacation. Here, you can run facing the sea, through pine forests, and even on the sand. Yes, really! Whether you're a fan of morning jogs, a regular runner, or training for a race, lace up your running shoes: we'll take you on a journey through three routes to explore Bandol, one stride at a time.
For internet users who like to go fast:
🢢 Route #1: The morning jog
🟠 Route #2: The Bandol running route with a sea view
🔴 Route #3: The Bandol Classic Challenge
🏃♀️ "Inside the Mind of a Runner" Report
Route #1: The morning jog
🧭 Directions : Partouche Casino Dam.
🏃♂️ Distance : approximately 4 km round trip.
🢢 Difficulty : easy.
This section is for those whose first instinct upon waking isn't breakfast, but putting on their sneakers. Yes, it happens. And if this applies to you, then here's what you need to know. a route that will give you a boost! which you will need for your day off.
From Partouche Casino, located on the port of Bandol, Simply walk along the quay.You'll see the Central Beach slowly waking up. The traditional fishing boats, their colors beginning to glow in the sunlight. Our beautiful tourist office and its unparalleled bougainvillea. All of this... up to the "end of the pier", the dike, this tongue of rock that separates the port from the Mediterranean and gives you the impression of floating on the water.
A round trip and a few kilometers of flat, easy terrain to start your day off right, but also so representative of our beloved city. The beach, the traditional fishing boats, the sea. If you don't leave too early, you'll even have the opportunity to...observe the first bowlers to compete on the pétanque court at the bandstand… Or even offer you breakfast on the terraceThe ultimate excuse to enjoy your coffee and toast, all served on a tray. After all, you wouldn't want to be in a calorie deficit. We remind you that...You're on vacation!
Route #2: The Bandol running route with a sea view
🧭 Directions : Our Tourist Office The Engraviers.
🏃♂️ Distance : approximately 7 km round trip.
🟠 Difficulty : average.
This time, things get serious. Well, that depends on your definition of "serious." Here, the goal isn't to beat your 10-kilometer record, but rather to to enjoy a journey that many envy us forAnd many walk it in sneakers, certainly, but at a more leisurely pace. Heading towards the coastal path.
The route is as easy as pie: you just need to follow the coast (or almost). From the tourist office, run towards the Corniche Bonaparte and one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, that of RenecrosIn the summer, you will a few strides in the sandTo start things off strong. In winter, you'll be spending more time on the cushions of Posidonia which could be your knees' best friends.
From here, The coves and rocky landscapes will follow one after another.The small beach of Eden Roc, that of Barry and his food truck Where to take a short break. Pointe Encanet and its cliffs plunging into the sea. Capelan and its peninsula. Then, the path to Engraviers beach where you'll find yourself under the umbrella pines. A concentration of what our nature does best.Something to motivate you, even on a Sunday!
Before leaving, treat yourself to a little swim Still. If you like secluded, pebble-like atmospheres, you will probably be in paradise.
Route #3: The Bandol Classic Challenge
🧭 Directions : Port of Bandol Roustagnon Port of Bandol.
🏃♂️ Distance : 12,4 km (loop).
🔴 Difficulty : difficult.
This is the one that makes hearts beat faster (literally). The one that lets you connect the coast to the hill. The sand to the earth. The palm trees to the scrubland. This route is definitely not for beginners. However, Each climb is well worth the effort.Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Bandol Classic.
Let me warn you: your legs are going to burn here. The climbs come one after another, your breath gets a little shorter, and the kilometers are quickly covered. Fortunately, Bandol has more than one reason to make you forget the effort. Among them, stunning views and absolutely fantastic and unparalleled landscapesEnough to bring a smile back to your face before the next climb.
In practical terms, you will need to start once again at the city's port. Then, you can let yourself be guided by the signs indicating "Bandol Classic"Like route #2, you will follow the coast and beaches. The difference will be made above the Englishwoman's cove from where you will need to go the hunters' pathThen, little by little, you will descend into the pine forest until you reach the summit of this hill so dear to the people of Bandol: RoustagnonThe return journey will then be by road to the pretty fishing boats on the quay.
✅ It is no coincidence that these reliefs, in addition to being an official city hikehost the two Bandol Classic races every year. A winter edition, a summer edition, and hundreds of runners who come to test themselves against the Bandol trails. Over the years, these two events have become key events on the Var region's sporting calendar, as much for the beauty of the routes as for the challenge they represent.
Who knows? This outing might just be a training session. Next time, you might come back to Bandol with a race bib and a burning desire to cross the finish line.
inside the mind of a runner in Bandol
As you've probably gathered, in Bandol, running is much more than just a sporting activity. It's a new way to discover the cityA reality that, moreover, did not escape the film crews. Inside the Mind of a Runner ", who recently came to set up their cameras in our city.
Throughout the videoYou will undoubtedly recognize several iconic locations in Bandol, but also a face well known to the locals; that of Jean-Marie SchneiderA true living memory of the community, he shares some anecdotes about local history with his characteristic passion.
If you wish to explore this heritage aspect further From this report, we have what you need. After exploring the city in sneakers, take the time to discover it in a different way thanks to... our historical journeyA stroll that takes you to discover iconic places and little anecdotes that shaped Bandol over the centuries.
🐰🐢 So, are you more of a hare or a tortoise person? Relaxing on the beach or a racing enthusiast? In Bandol, the good news is that it is There's no need to choose your side.Nothing prevents you from starting the day with a jog along the port, continuing with a run on the coastal path or in the hills of Roustagnon, before heading off to cool off in the Mediterranean. Ultimately, running in Bandol isn't just about training or staying in shape. It's about discovering the town in a different way. to take paths that we might never have explored and enjoy some of the most beautiful panoramas on the Var coast. Ready to put on your sneakers?
