Island Accommodations
Île de Bendor, a seven-hectare island sanctuary, ensures every guest is embraced by the sea. All 93 newly refurbished rooms and suites boast stunning marine
vistas, with a remarkable 95% featuring private balconies. The lodgings are artfully segregated into three distinct zones, each exuding its own characteristic ambiance. In the Delos block, rooms burst with lively hues of white, ochre, and powder blue, thoughtfully stocked with a selection of alcoholic beverages. This section offers captivating views of magical sunrises and the picturesque Bandol hills and harbour across the water, with the Solea Suite being a particular highlight. For those seeking a tranquil escape, the Soukana block focuses on wellness. Its rooms are adorned in a soothing, dusky terracotta palette, and come equipped with amenities like light dumbbells, a yoga mat, and resistance bands – a nod to mindful living. Opt for a corner room, such as No. 92, to enjoy dual perspectives of the lush Neptune garden and the shimmering sea. Situated near the harbour, La Madrague presents a charming collection of two-story former fishermen's dwellings transformed into inviting villas. These come with rustic, picket-fenced gardens, making them an idyllic choice for families with young children.
Culinary Journeys
The island's three main dining establishments promise to be culinary destinations in their own right. Le Grand Large, the fine-dining venue, features a rotating roster of visiting chefs who expertly craft Provencal specialties, including delicate red snapper and the traditional Bouillabaisse. For a more relaxed, all-day experience, Nonna Bazaar, a beachside spot, serves a delightful array of pan-Mediterranean dishes. Here, one can savor a tender lamb tagine, a refreshing Greek salad, and an exceptional pizza, all perfectly complemented by a high-quality Bandol rosé. At Soukana restaurant, head chef Hoai Nguyen orchestrates an inspired Asian-fusion menu. Breakfast here offers a delightful mix of the exotic and the familiar, with dishes like beef feu alongside gluten-free pain au chocolat and other wholesome Western options, all enjoyed against a backdrop of large picture windows framing the sea and hills. In contrast, breakfasts in Delos lean towards indulgence, offering options like champagne and caviar for those seeking a more opulent start to the day.
Arts, Crafts, and Relaxation
Beyond its accommodations and dining, Île de Bendor offers a vibrant array of activities centered around creativity and well-being. Two outdoor swimming pools, both offering scenic sea views, invite guests to relax and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. An art gallery showcases diverse works, while a dedicated artisan studio provides a space for guests to engage in hands-on crafts workshops. This studio features a rotating selection of artisans every six weeks, including embroiderers, potters, weavers, painters, designers, and ceramicists. Guests have the opportunity to try their hand at various crafts; for instance, sculpting a clay turtle under the guidance of a local ceramicist. The Soukana rooftop bar and lounge is an ideal spot to unwind and witness breathtaking sunrises or sunsets, with panoramic views encompassing the 25-meter lap pool, the hills of Bandol across the sparkling water, and the rugged coastline featuring the iconic Eagle Beak rock. At Bar Patrick, located behind Nonna Bazaar and opening onto a small sandy beach, guests can bask in the sun while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails. The spa also offers unique wellness treatments, including a Visbody scanner for body composition analysis and an Iyashi Dôme for rejuvenation, elevating it beyond typical offerings.
Water Sports and Local Exploration
The waters surrounding Île de Bendor hold historical significance, being the very place where legendary oceanographer Jacques Cousteau pioneered scuba diving. The hotel's diving club is equipped to facilitate snorkeling adventures and a range of non-motorized water sports, including kayaking and pedal boat excursions, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the marine environment. Venturing onto the mainland, the characterful town of Bandol offers an authentic French experience, attracting fewer Anglophone tourists and retaining a strong local charm. Its weekly market is a treasure trove for fresh produce, featuring items like Cavaillon melons, purple artichokes, and the region's famed white peaches. A visit to this area would be incomplete without exploring the Calanques, a UNESCO World Heritage site. These magnificent limestone cliffs, situated between Marseille and La Ciotat, are dramatically carved by sparkling turquoise fjords and secluded beaches. The hotel also plans to organize excursions to nearby wine estates, providing opportunities for tastings. The Bandol region is renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its world-class rosé.
Island Heritage and Modern Vision
In 1950, the captivating Île de Bendor was acquired by Paul Ricard, an innovative drinks entrepreneur and the visionary behind the popular _pastis_. Ricard transformed the island into a whimsical paradise dedicated to the good life, celebrating art, gastronomy, creativity, and community. Today, his descendants continue to foster this unique spirit in collaboration with the Zannier hotel group. Following an extensive five-year renovation, which involved refurbishing existing structures and introducing new ones, Zannier Île de Bendor reopened in May 2026, marking one of the most anticipated debuts on the Côte d’Azur. Eschewing the ostentatious glamour often associated with destinations to the east, the island remains firmly rooted in its Provencal heritage, embracing a chic 1960s retro elegance that prioritizes community. The island now functions as a car-free village where guests and day visitors can freely interact, enjoying pétanque games, exploring art galleries, participating in craft workshops, indulging in diverse culinary offerings, and rejuvenating in the spa's Iyashi Dôme. The unique 'Hello Dolly' mocktail is also a must-try, a delicious concoction of apple and elderflower syrups, lime juice, and mint, renowned for its exquisite taste.
