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The Bay of Bandol

Set just off the coast of Bandol on the French Riviera, the island of Bendor offers a haven of elegance and serenity. With turquoise waters, flower-lined lanes, and a vibrant artistic spirit, it embodies the refined charm and gentle rhythm of Provence.

Travel Tips

Couple enjoying a sailing experience at Zannier Bendor © AurelienStudio for Zannier Hotel

Bendor’s rocks shines brightest in May-October, when temperatures dance between 22°-32°C and lavender scents the sea breeze. July-August brings vibrant energy and warm swimming conditions (avg. sea temp: 24°C), while May-June/September-October offer warmth with fewer visitors. Winter unveils a different charm: mild 12°-18°C days perfect for coastal walks between November-April, though occasional mistral winds may bring brief rainfall. Note the island closes annually at winter time. For event planners, May-June promises golden-hour weddings; September’s grape harvest in Bandol sets an idyllic meetings backdrop. Please note the island will open on May 1st 2026 and close end October 2026 on the first season.

Your trip to the island begins at the port of Bandol, where our free shuttle bus awaits you (10-minute journey, departures every hour).

By air: Toulon-Hyères (TLN, 25 miles/55 min by car) or Marseille-Provence (MRS, 48 miles/1 hr) with organized transfers to the port. Helicopter transfers land at Le Castellet (CTT, 7.5 miles).

By car: the coastal roads from Saint-Tropez (53 miles/2 hrs) or Aix-en-Provence (43 miles/1 hr) offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

From the sea: numerous private moorings for yachts are available throughout the French Riviera.
Once you arrive, embrace the “car-free” philosophy.

The distance between the various facilities is a 10- to 12-minute walk, allowing for beautiful strolls throughout the island. Cars are not allowed on the entire island. Assistance with electric buggies can be provided.

Sailing boat at sea during Zannier Bendor experience © AurelienStudio for Zannier Hotels

Essentials for your Provençal escape: swimwear for cliffside pools, wide-brimmed hats and reef-safe sunscreen. Pack linen layers for breezy evenings and casual attire for sunset apéritifs. Sturdy sandals conquer coastal trails while espadrilles transition seamlessly to beachside dinners. Include a waterproof jacket for spontaneous sea adventures and mistral days. Don’t forget sunglasses for seabird spotting, a journal for wine-tasting notes, and of course, some empty luggage space for pottery and local spécialités.

Our Services

Our Guest Assistants and round-the-clock Reception team are here to ensure you have all you need. They provide personalised assistance to organise activities, bookings, and transportation. They’re also happy to help prepare surprises. Whatever your request, they will do their best to assist you.

Zannier Bendor welcomes guests seasonally from May to October. Our check-in time is 3pm and check-out is at 11am. Visitors wishing to extend their stay or adjust departure should contact Reception. Please note that arrangements may imply supplementary charges.

Our team is delighted to arrange bespoke activities, from exclusive experiences to unique adventures – we’re here to make it all happen. Additionally, if you wish to host a special private retreat at Zannier Bendor, we would be pleased to organise every detail.

Zannier Bendor transforms corporate visions into unforgettable experiences. Our dedicated meeting centre features modular spaces: the 157m² Scotto Theater  for conferences (seating 85), the intimate S. Dali Meeting Room with breakout terrace, and Les Voûtes for wine-tastings sessions. Orchestrate product launches amid Neptune’s Garden olive groves, host cliffside dinners at Le Grand Large, or privatize the entire car-free island. Bespoke catering, state-of-the-art tech, and Provençal inspiration ensure every event: from board meetings to weddings.

Zannier Bendor offers a kids’ club open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. The club welcomes children aged 4 to 12, as well as children under 4 accompanied and supervised by a parent. In partnership with Tartine et Chocolat, our team of dedicated professionals organizes activities to keep children busy and entertained in indoor and outdoor play areas. These activities include board games, numerous creative workshops, reading, and outdoor games.

Complimentary electric buggies navigate our car-free island between villas, beaches, and restaurants. For arrivals, a private shuttle departs hourly from Bandol harbor (10-minute ride). Airport transfers are available from Toulon-Hyères (TLN, 55min) and Marseille-Provence (MRS, 1hr) at additional cost. Helicopter transfers land at Le Castellet (12km). Our conciergerie arranges chauffeur-driven exploration of Saint-Tropez, Aix-en-Provence, or vineyard routes. Premium services incur supplementary charges.

Our in-villa dining service is available throughout the resort, from 7am to 11pm. The last order is at 10.30pm.

Zannier Bendor has a lovely boutique offering beach essentials, traditional items made by local craftsmen, and souvenirs. Located next to the reception building, it is open daily. For a more personalised experience, our Guest Assistants are happy to open the boutique outside of regular hours upon request. Additionally, a concept store and three crafts ateliers on the main square invite visitors to discover the richness of Provençal know-how ; from meeting passionate artisans and exploring creative brands to learning traditional techniques firsthand.