Founded in 1595 around a military fort, Bandol is a picturesque seaside town along the sun-drenched Côte d’Azur. It’s surrounded by one of Provence’s most internationally recognised wine regions, with its warm, coastal climate ideal for the production of Mourvèdre grapes. Fronting the town is a popular stretch of sand while water sports can be enjoyed along the coast.
Things to do in Bandol
You can go cellar door-hopping between some of Bandol’s 200+ wine producers, such as La Suffrene, Tempier and Bunan. Venture to the charming hilltop villages of Le Castellet or La Cadiere d’Azur, which are surrounded by vineyards offering stunning views of the Sainte-Baume mountain range.
A short walk from the marina of Bandol is the Plage de Renécros, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand that’s considered one of the most beautiful urban beaches in France. Take a dip in the idyllic waters of the Mediterranean Sea or go snorkelling amidst the colourful fish, then dine on locally-sourced seafood at one of the nearby restaurants.
Perched in the Mediterranean Sea just off the coast of Bandol is Bendor Island, which was purchased by the famous spirit producer, Paul Ricard, in 1950. It’s clustered with Provençal villas and boutique shops and features a permanent exhibition about the island’s “creation” and the life of Ricard. Take the time to browse the Universal Exposition of Wines and Spirits, which is fronted by statues of Bacchus and Vigne carved by the Provençale artist Louis Botinelly.
Getting around Bandol
Bandol is around an hour’s drive from Marseille Provence Airport, which has flights to cities across Europe. Trains connect from destinations throughout Provence to the Bandol railway station while buses travel throughout Bandol. Regular ferries connect to Bendor Island.