Explore Île de Bendor 2026: Zannier Hotels’ Exclusive Island Retreat in Provence

On May 1, 2026, the private island of Île de Bendor, which is located in the Var region of southern France, just off the coast of Bandol, is scheduled to reopen as a posh resort. Following five years of change, the island will welcome a 93-key hotel operated by Zannier Hotels, which has been redesigned to honor its history while adding new dining, social, and wellness options.

Island legacy meets new vision

Originally purchased in 1950 by industrialist and pastis pioneer Paul Ricard, Île de Bendor became a stylish retreat for artists and holiday-makers alike. The Ricard family, through Société Paul Ricard and in partnership with Zannier Hotels, has led a comprehensive restoration that covers architecture, landscaping and hospitality.

The resort in detail

The resort is divided into three distinct zones each offering its own character:

• Delos: 39 keys, evoking the glamour of the 1960s French Riviera.
• Soukana: 49 keys focused on wellness and reconnection with nature.
• Madrague Houses: Five two-storey houses, each with a private garden, designed for families near the harbour.

Dining, social life and wellbeing

The island will feature a rich collection of culinary and social venues. These include three main restaurants, four bars/lounges and a creperie. Among the concepts:

• A fine-dining venue with sea views
• All-day casual dining by the pool
• Traditional Provençal café
• An Asian-fusion concept with cocktail terrace
• A sharing-plate concept inspired by Mediterranean bazaars

On the wellness front, the resort includes a 1,200 m² spa — one of the largest in the region — and programmes rooted in wellness, movement and nutrition. Facilities: indoor/outdoor pools, hammam, cold bath, mud bath, yoga and Pilates studio, tennis and pickleball courts.

Why it matters for travellers

For those planning a stay:

• The resort blends historic island charm with modern hospitality.
• Easy boat access from Bandol places you in a tranquil, exclusive setting while remaining connected to the mainland and Provence.
• Varied accommodation types suit couples, wellness travellers and families alike.
• Dining is diverse — from casual to gourmet — so even non-residents might enjoy a visit.
• Wellness features tempt those seeking more than just a beach break.

Travel guide at a glance

Getting there: Reach Bandol on the French Riviera (Var department), then take a short boat ride to the island.
Best time to go: Late spring through early autumn offers the best weather and ambiance.
Who should go: Couples seeking luxury and seclusion, wellness-oriented guests, families who want space and crafted experiences.
What to pack: Resort wear for dining and social venues; activewear for wellness/movement; light layers for evenings by the sea.
Insider tip: Book early for the May opening phase and explore the island’s walking paths, galleries and artisan spaces in between resort time.

Impact on Tourism

The rebirth of Île de Bendor will likely boost tourism along the southern French coast. Its relaunch adds a new high-end destination to the Var region, drawing visitors who seek both relaxation and culture. Local businesses in Bandol, including ferry services, markets, and tour operators, are expected to benefit from the rise in visitor numbers.

The project also broadens the Riviera’s travel appeal beyond its usual hotspots by introducing a smaller, more intimate island setting. Wellness travel, in particular, should see growth due to the resort’s focus on holistic health and sustainable living. With year-round accessibility and luxury standards that align with global tourism goals set by France’s national tourism board (Atout France), Île de Bendor may soon stand among the key destinations reinforcing France’s image as a world leader in refined hospitality and cultural tourism.

Conclusion

The resurgence of Île de Bendor under Zannier Hotels signifies a return to the island’s historical significance as a cultural, artistic, and charming coastal destination. The project offers a blend of fine dining, mindful wellness, and creative energy while striking a balance between modern comfort and Provençal character. Travelers can anticipate a contemplative getaway that respects the island’s past while establishing it as one of the Riviera’s most inspirational locations when it reopens in 2026.

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