Ile de Bendor
About
Ile de Bendor is a small, 0.08 km² island nestled just 300 m off the coast of Bandol in the Var department of southeastern France. Developed by industrialist Paul Ricard in 1950, the island has become a destination for cultural travelers and leisure seekers alike. It hosts two free museums – the Universal Exposition of Wines and Spirits and the Ricard Advertising Objects museum – which welcome visitors every summer month of July and August. In addition to the museums, the island offers a boutique hotel, several restaurants, an artists' village, boutiques, tennis courts, water–sports facilities, and the island’s iconic marina. Two-way ferries run daily between Bandol harbor and the island, allowing guests to enjoy scenic sea views and easy access to the attractions. Bendor Island’s compact size means a day‑trip can easily cover all its highlights, leaving time for relaxation by the Mediterranean sea.
Highlights
- Free Museums
- Island Ferry
- Compact Size
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
June to July for the best museum exhibitions and pleasant Mediterranean weather
What people are saying
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 4 hours