Bendor Island

A small, (almost) lost paradise located about ten minutes by boat from Bandol, the island of Bendor is a feast for the senses. After a well-deserved rest, its doors will reopen on May 1, 2026. What changes have taken place? What activities will now be available? How to get there and under what conditions? Find all the information you need on this page. Everything you need to plan your island getaway with complete peace of mind.

2026, the year of rebirth for Bendor

As we mentioned in the introduction, The beautiful island had fallen asleep.Since October 2021, she had cut herself off from the world in order to come back stronger. Thus, after 5 years of workBendor, a place of reflection, passion and love, is accessible again.

If all those who love this little piece of land feared seeing the magic disappear, fear not, nothing could be further from the truth. And who better to speak about it than the new manager, the purveyor of happiness? 

“The goal is to breathe new life into Paul Ricard’s island dream, to make it a destination in its own right, true to his spirit of sharing and openness” – Arnaud Zannier

No drastic changes then, no abandonment of a certain soul or even a certain history, but an embellishmentSo that the place that all the people of Bandol and visitors loved so much, continues to inspire dreams for many years to come.

Bendor's hotel offerings: make way for the Zannier group

Here again, nothing disappears, everything improves. The island's iconic names endure: The Delos, the Soukana, and the small villas are still on site. The difference? It's quite simple: these three beauties are now grouped together in a single offer. Three styles, one hotel.

The experience is as follows: the three buildings are actually a single entity. A shared reception area upon arrival on the island. A single website for reservations. A single management team. However, on the other hand, decoration, atmosphere, catering and eventsThis is where each person's personality asserts itself.

Si the Delos It aims for a retro chic feel with its 60s French Riviera charm. the SoukanaHe, on the other hand, reveals his natural side. On the agenda for this one: noble materials, soft colors, and an atmosphere of the ends of the earth, all about relaxation and disconnection. Finally, on the side of the five Madrague housesThink of them as warm, cozy nests. Rustic simplicity and Provençal charm, perfect for family or group stays.

✅ To take a look at the accommodations and even Book your holiday now! Islanders, head to the website…

The fine dining and culinary experiences of Bendor

Three restaurants, four bars, a café, a crêperie… The least we can say is that everyone will find something to satisfy their cravings on the island! With the added bonus of inspirations that will set the rhythm for the whole season: chefs in residence, continuous cooking, Mediterranean flavors, ice creams, detox juices and artisanal cocktails.

And here's a first name that will resonate with all connoisseurs: the Open SeaThis iconic institution of our region is back. On the menu: still a dining room facing the horizon, still tables with a sea view, still the possibility of organizing fabulous events, but with the added touch of luxury. Yes, because what was once a fine Provençal restaurant will now take on the air of... gastronomic sceneThis is where chefs from all over the world will take turns introducing you to another facet of the Mediterranean.

Another restaurant whose name immediately makes our mouths water: the Nonna BazaarA brasserie located in the heart of the artisans' village, with a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Simple yet thoughtful flavors and service that is both chic and laid-back—this is it. a perfect balance between elegance and authenticityAs a bonus, a corner beach for sunny snacks.

✅ You can probably guess that these two establishments are just appetizers… Discover everything that awaits you this way :

Family activities, outdoor leisure and wellness in Bendor

Here again, Bendor has managed to showcase its unique character while welcoming all types of locals and tourists. For our more athletic readers, yoga by the sea, a game of tennis perched on the treetops or even rcoastal paddleboarding, everything will be possible. Not forgetting the fields of pickleball, the latest racket game that's setting the courts on fire.

Good news too for families who will find plenty to brighten up their holidays. So, no zoo as was the case a few decades ago, but a children's club created in partnership with the lovely brand Tartine et ChocolatBoard games, art workshops, quiet reading time and outdoor activities will fill your little ones' days.

Finally, the biggest new feature of this reopening is undoubtedly the creation of a space dedicated to relaxation and unwinding. an area well-being 1 m² which revolves around four essential pillars: emotional well-being, digestive harmony, spa treatments, movement, and nutrition. A beautiful program specially designed and implemented for a return to one's roots, a reconnection with one's inner self, a unique letting go in a setting that blends understated and elegant architecture with a distinctly Mediterranean ambiance.

✅ Information and reservations available here…

access to Bendor Island

✅ In practice: the only official shuttle that will take you to the island is available at the Bandol port pier. Boats run every 30 minutes from 10am to 23:30pm, with departures from Bandol every hour and half hour (example: 10 am, 10:30 am, 11 am, etc.).

⚠️ The only way to buy your round-trip ticket So, for Bendor, you need to visit the website. Zannier Island of Bendor.

👉 More information Regarding the access methods to the island, see here:

🌞 So, people of Bandol, VaroisHolidaymakers from our beautiful country and even visitors from distant lands, come and (re)discover the island of Bendor. Let's revive this Mediterranean jewel together. An iconic feature of our Bandol coastline. Be adventurous enough to take the shuttle and explore the island. Indulge your taste buds and savor the culinary delights offered by the island's various chefs. Dive in and try out the different activities available. Treat yourself and book a few nights in one of the finest hotels. on the side. In short, live, savor, enjoyBendor Island is reborn, and with it, wonderful memories to look forward to 💛

Photo credits: Zannier Hotels (©).