Île de Bendor
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Île de Bendor

4.3
·109 reviews·Bandol, France

A tiny, picturesque island near Bandol, once owned by Paul Ricard, offering stunning Mediterranean views, boutiques, and dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
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Île de Bendor

Île de Bendor

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour for photos

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A tiny, picturesque island near Bandol, once owned by Paul Ricard, offering stunning Mediterranean views, boutiques, and dining.

4.3
(109 reviews)

"Fantastic Island, great location and atmosphere, truly a lovely little island, very romantic."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ferry Cost Consideration

The ferry from Bandol is about 17 euros per person for a very short trip. Plan accordingly!

Romantic Island Escape

Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway with beautiful views and a peaceful vibe.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Island Views

Panoramic Island Views

Throughout the island

Soak in breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea and the Bandol coastline. Perfect for romantic moments.

Charming Boutiques & Restaurants

Charming Boutiques & Restaurants

Island center

Explore unique shops and enjoy a meal with a view. Karma Beach offers a delightful dining experience.

The Island's Tranquil Ambiance

The Island's Tranquil Ambiance

Various quiet spots

Experience the peaceful and romantic atmosphere of this small Mediterranean gem. Ideal for unwinding.

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Planning Your Visit

Island Access & Cost

Reaching Île de Bendor involves a short ferry ride from Bandol. While the island itself is charming, be aware that the ferry cost can be a bit steep for the short distance, so factor this into your budget.

Island Atmosphere

Île de Bendor is a small, picturesque island perfect for a romantic stroll or a relaxing day. It's known for its beautiful views and tranquil atmosphere, making it a lovely escape.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

10/10🪩 #CapCut #Restaurant #karmabeach #plage @Karma Beach Bandol
@anaissroyy
6K likes • 163.6K views

Ferry Cost Consideration

The ferry from Bandol is about 17 euros per person for a very short trip. Plan accordingly! Reddit

Romantic Island Escape

Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway with beautiful views and a peaceful vibe. Reddit

pour qu’au final ils l’a mette mm pas 🖕🏼🖕🏼 #bandol #soirée #dj #prt #viral #83
@l1lvss
1.6K likes • 12.4K views
┇🌸 ┇ Î𝗟𝗘 𝗗𝗘 𝗕𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗢𝗥 ⊹ Petite découverte du jour l’île de Bendor qui se trouve en face de Bandol. Elle n’est pas très grande, le tour se fait à pied en à peine 45 minutes. Il y a des petites criques, des jardins, des boutiques de créateurs et même une galerie d’art. 🎨 La traversée en bateau se fait en 10 minutes, c’est assez excessif mais il est possible d’y aller en paddle 😋 #regionsud #paca #p...
sharleynb
34 likes • 3.8K views

Enjoy Beachside Dining

Karma Beach offers a lovely restaurant experience right on the water. TikTok

Island Exploration

Wander the island to discover its boutiques and scenic spots. TikTok

France ou Grèce ? 💙 L’île de Bendor est une petite île du Var située à Bandol. 🇫🇷🌊 Mais avec ses statues de dieux et de déesses grecques, ses fleurs, ses jolies voutes et la Méditerranée, il y a un petit air de Grèce ! 🇬🇷 Vous trouvez aussi ? 🥰 Bendor était une île désertique jusqu'aux années 50. Elle a ensuite été achetée et complètement aménagée par Paul Ricard. 👨 Aujourd'hui encore, perso...
judithvoyage
274 likes • 7.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ferry Cost Consideration

The ferry from Bandol is about 17 euros per person for a very short trip. Plan accordingly! Reddit

Romantic Island Escape

Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway with beautiful views and a peaceful vibe. Reddit

Enjoy Beachside Dining

Karma Beach offers a lovely restaurant experience right on the water. TikTok

Island Exploration

Wander the island to discover its boutiques and scenic spots. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(109 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Île de Bendor for its beauty, romantic atmosphere, and lovely views, calling it a fantastic and beautiful island. However, some find the ferry price a bit steep for the short distance.

"Small, lovely with beautiful views. I loved it.
However, the cruise from Bandol costs 17 euro per person which is a bit too expensive for 300 meter distance."

Kath Ch

"Fantastic Island, great location and atmosphere"

Geo Lafferty

"Lovely little island, very romamtic"

Kenneth Bore Eilertsen

What People Like

Beautiful island
Lovely views
Romantic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Expensive ferry

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Île de Bendor is accessible via a short ferry ride from the port of Bandol. The journey is quick, offering lovely views as you approach the island. TikTok

The ferry from Bandol to Île de Bendor costs approximately 17 euros per person for the round trip. This price is noted by visitors as being a bit high for the short distance. Reddit

The primary and most convenient way to reach Île de Bendor is by the dedicated ferry service from Bandol. Private boat rentals might be an option but are less common for day visitors.

The ferry ride from Bandol to Île de Bendor is very short, typically only a few minutes, covering a distance of about 300 meters. Reddit

No, Île de Bendor is a pedestrian island and cannot be accessed by car. Parking is available in Bandol before taking the ferry.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While there isn't a separate entry ticket for the island itself, you will need to purchase a round-trip ferry ticket from Bandol to access it. Reddit

Île de Bendor is generally accessible during daylight hours, with ferry services operating throughout the day. Specific operating times for restaurants and boutiques may vary. TikTok

There is no direct entrance fee for Île de Bendor. The cost is associated with the ferry transportation to and from the island. Reddit

The island is typically open year-round, but ferry services and business operations might be reduced during the off-season. It's best to check ferry schedules in advance.

While not as frequent as on the mainland, the island can host events. Keep an eye out for local listings, especially during peak season. TikTok mentions evening events.

📸 📸 Photography

The entire island offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially along the coastline for sea views and the charming architecture. The late afternoon light is particularly stunning. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can be strict in coastal areas and near populated islands. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone over Île de Bendor.

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a wide-angle lens for capturing the expansive sea views and a zoom lens for details of the Bandol coast. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of private property and respect the privacy of other visitors. Instagram

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for capturing the island's beauty and the surrounding Mediterranean landscape. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Île de Bendor features several dining establishments, including restaurants and cafes. Karma Beach is a popular spot for lunch and aperitifs with a sea view. TikTok

Dining prices on the island can be moderate to high, reflecting its status as a tourist destination. It's advisable to check menus and prices beforehand. TikTok

While not explicitly forbidden, it's generally expected that visitors will patronize the island's establishments. Picnicking might be possible in designated areas, but check local rules.

Restaurant menus can vary. It's recommended to inquire directly with the establishments about their vegetarian and vegan offerings. TikTok

The cuisine often features Mediterranean influences, with fresh seafood and local ingredients being common. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Île de Bendor can be a pleasant outing for families, though its primary appeal leans towards couples. The short ferry ride is usually manageable for children. Once on the island, kids might enjoy exploring the small boutiques and the beach areas. However, the island's main attractions are its scenic views and relaxed atmosphere, which might be less engaging for very young children compared to more activity-focused destinations. Consider it for a brief, scenic stop rather than a full day's entertainment.

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

Île de Bendor is frequently described as 'very romantic' and is an ideal destination for couples. The beautiful sea views, charming island setting, and the option for seaside dining at places like Karma Beach create a perfect backdrop for a romantic escape. Reddit A leisurely stroll around the island, enjoying the sunset, and perhaps a quiet drink make for a memorable experience. It's a place to connect and enjoy each other's company in a picturesque environment.

💰 Budget Travelers

While Île de Bendor offers charm, budget-conscious travelers should be aware of the ferry cost. At 17 euros per person for a very short trip, it's a significant expense for a quick visit. Reddit To make the most of it on a budget, consider packing your own snacks and drinks to enjoy on the island, and focus on the free activities like walking and enjoying the views rather than extensive dining or shopping.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Île de Bendor

Île de Bendor, a small island off the coast of Bandol, has a unique history tied to the Ricard family, famous for their pastis beverage. Purchased by Paul Ricard in 1950, the island was transformed into a vibrant destination. Ricard envisioned it as a place for artists, creators, and visitors to enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle. He developed the island with hotels, restaurants, and boutiques, aiming to create a unique haven. This legacy continues to shape the island's atmosphere today, blending natural beauty with a touch of sophisticated leisure. Reddit

Experiencing Île de Bendor's Atmosphere

Visitors often describe Île de Bendor as a 'lovely little island' with a 'great location and atmosphere,' making it a popular spot for a romantic day out. The island's small size means you can easily explore its entirety on foot, taking in the beautiful views of the sea and the mainland coast. It's a place to relax, wander through the shops, and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine. The tranquil ambiance is a significant draw for those seeking a peaceful escape from the bustle of the mainland. Reddit+1

Dining and Leisure on the Island

For those looking to dine, Île de Bendor offers several options. Karma Beach is frequently mentioned as a highlight, providing a restaurant experience right on the water, perfect for lunch or an aperitif. TikTok While the island is small, it caters to visitors seeking a leisurely experience, whether it's enjoying a meal, browsing boutiques, or simply soaking in the scenery. The focus is on a relaxed, enjoyable visit. TikTok

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