The Art of Seclusion: A Private Mediterranean Island Escape

Zannier Bendor, one of Europe’s most anticipated openings, debuted on the private French island of Île de Bendor in spring 2026, after five years of transformation. Zannier Hotels has appointed Emmanuel Blanchemanche as General Manager and renowned chef Lionel Levy as Executive Chef as the project unveils expansive dining and wellbeing programming, a joint effort by Société Paul Ricard and Zannier Hotels to restore the isle’s legacy as a convivial gathering place steeped in old-world glamour.

 The Ricard family, guardians of Paul Ricard’s vision, joins forces with Zannier Hotels' excellence to write this new chapter. Facing the town of Bandol in Provence, the seven-hectare island was first brought to life in 1950 by Marseille-born pastis pioneer Paul Ricard, and hotelier Arnaud Zannier, hand in hand with Ricard’s great-grandson, Marc de Jouffroy of Société Paul Ricard, has spearheaded this meticulous five-year revival. Working as a united front, Zannier and the Ricard family have overseen all aspects of the island’s evolution, together with new General Manager Emmanuel Blanchemanche, Hardel Le Bihan Architectes and Niez Studio Paysagistes," as the destination is poised to become the new social, culinary and wellness capital of the French Riviera".

Zannier Bendor will offer distinct styles, Delos, Soukana and Madrague, thoughtfully curated across these three signature settings, each with its own ambience and guest experience. 39-key Delos will capture the refined spirit of the 1960s French Riviera, 49-key Soukana will centre on wellbeing and reconnection, and the five two-storey Madrague houses, each with a private garden, will offer authentic Provençal charm for young families near the harbour. Just a seven-minute boat ride from the coastal town of Bandol in Provence, Île de Bendor is a small private island known for its history and old-world glamour.

 Once a traditional fishing village, Bandol is now known for its seaside charm, pretty port, and Provencal vineyards. From Zannier Île de Bendor, visitors can explore Provence's diverse landscapes, vineyards, hilltop villages, and lavender fields, as well as the nearby French Riviera. The island itself offers a tranquil retreat with Mediterranean views and easy access to southern France's natural and cultural attractions.

"Celebrating the joy of culinary merriment", Zannier Bendor will unveil an expansive collection of convivial dining and social spaces, including three restaurants, four bars and lounges, and a creperie. Gastronomic restaurant Le Grand Large, with sweeping sea views, will host a programme of visiting chefs; Delos will serve all-day casual dining beside the main pool; Café Paul Ricard will serve traditional Provençal fare; and Bar Patrick will pay tribute to Paul’s beloved son, Patrick Ricard.

Nonna Bazaar, a multi-sensory lifestyle and restaurant concept first launched on the island of Menorca in 2022, will toast family tradition and friendship through sharing plates, with ‘Nonna’ evoking animated gatherings and ancestral tales, while ‘Bazaar’ draws on the vibrant bazaaris and soulful souks that scattered the Mediterranean. Soukana Restaurant will serve Asian-fusion-inspired cuisine with expertly paired cocktails; drinks are also served on a magnificent rooftop terrace overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Alongside there will be an art gallery, three artisan ateliers and a concept store that will ignite creativity and honour the cultural legacy of Paul Ricard, while a dedicated kids’ club ensures engaging activities for younger guests and families.

Zannier Bendor will be the sixth property from Zannier Hotels, with the brand currently operating five hotels, resorts and lodges around the world. This one is set to become "the destination poised to become the new social, culinary and wellness capital of the French Riviera".

For bookings and enquiries, please visit Zannier Île de Bendor - Private Mediterranean Island Retreat