Zannier Hotels has announced its appointment to manage the redesign of iconic French private island Île de Bendor, facing the city of Bandol in Provence, first brought to life by pastis pioneer, Paul Ricard, 70 years ago. Much more than just a resort project, the 2026 launch will see Zannier Hotels manage and operate the island destination from start to finish.
Over the next three years, Île de Bendor will undergo a complete transformation. The renovation will see the six hectare island emerge as a Provençal-style village and convivial gathering space rooted in the island’s old-world glamour. It will be home to an array of restaurant, bar and social spaces—including the second outpost of Nonna Bazaar, the immersive dining concept launched by Zannier Hotels in Menorca last year—alongside a Beach Club, curated artisan village, holistic wellness offering and impressive spa.
A boutique hotel with 93 keys will become the sixth property in the Zannier Hotels roster, with the brand currently operating five hotels, resorts and lodges around the world: Le Chalet, France; Phum Baitang, Cambodia; Omaanda, Namibia; Sonop, Namibia; and Bãi San Hô, Vietnam. Located in a prime position on the Côte d’Azur, with a particular attention to sustainability, the project will be the second for Zannier Hotels in the homeland of the brand’s founder, Arnaud Zannier. His very first property, Zannier Hotels Le Chalet, opened in Megève in 2011.
Working as a united front, the Ricard family, Hardel Le Bihan Architectes, Niez Studio Paysagistes and Zannier Hotels will oversee all aspects of the island’s evolution, overseeing all architectural, landscaping and interior design decisions.
The announcement of Île de Bendor follows the recent launch of Zannier Private Estates, a collection of private homes in France, Portugal and Menorca available for exclusive use, with another set to open its doors in Mauritius later this year; as well as the 2022 opening of multi-sensory lifestyle and restaurant concept, Nonna Bazaar.
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