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Bandol

Tourism and travel guide

Découvrez un village de pêcheurs devenu une station balnéaire familiale à l’ouest du Var.

Bandol is a tourist destination of choice, particularly renowned for its wines. The vineyard of Bandol has received the appellation d’origine contrôlée AOC (“controlled designation of origin”). Take advantage of your stay to visit an estate and taste the red and white wines, as well as the rosés produced in the commune. The Provencal market is a real tradition in the region. A stay in Bandol will be an opportunity to stroll between the market stalls and discover local and regional specialties. You may come across some locals playing the game of boules (pétanque).

Every year, Bandol attracts many tourists thanks to its magnificent beaches: Grand Vallat Beach, Casino Beach, Rènecros Beach… There are also charming inlets all along the corniche path. The most athletic can take advantage of the idyllic setting to enjoy water sports: parasailing, hydro ultralight, etc. But if you prefer land sports such as golf, you can go to the Frégate Golf Course to improve your swing.

Located in the Var department, between Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer and Sanary-sur-Mer, Bandol is one of the largest and oldest seaside resorts on the coast. The town is a real playground for hiking enthusiasts. You can take the coastal path to admire the beauty of the landscapes.

Throughout the year, various events are organized and bring the center of Bandol to life. These events include the Mediterranean cycling tour, the Salon du Nautisme (Boat Show), the Jousts, the Vintage Festival, and more. They highlight the traditions and know-how of the town in a warm and festive atmosphere.

Les Îles Paul Ricard

Facing the town of Bandol, Les Îles Paul Ricard are an archipelago composed of two islands: Bendor Island and the Île des Embiez. Privileged places for walks, the islands offer a breathtaking panorama. On Bendor Island, you can walk around the island thanks to the footpath, visit the wine and spirits museum and the art gallery, a building that houses some of Paul Ricard’s works. The Île des Embiez, meanwhile, is appreciated for its rocky inlets, its limpid seabed and its vast green space.

Saint-François-de-Sales Church

The Saint-François-de-Sales church is located behind the town hall, in front of the port. Dating back to the 18th century, it was initially composed of a single nave before being as it is today. Over time, two naves opened on either side of the church. The façade gives access to three doors that lead to a terrace. The bell tower is square and topped by a clockwork. Inside, paneling, paintings and frescoes decorate the building. You can stroll around the church, through the narrow streets of the town and discover the wonders it hides: an old fountain, a Belle Époque villa, and more.

Bandstand

The bandstand of Bandol was built in 1933, according to the plans of the architect Fleury Linossier. He decided to give the monument a Greco-Moorish style that adapted to the environment composed of palm trees. The bandstand consists of six twin columns and a roof of three rows of round tiles. Located on the port, it is a monument in its own right and is worth a visit during a stay in Bandol. Fleury Linossier is particularly well known in Bandol as he has also built many other monuments such as the town hall, the Octave Maurel school group, Hotel Île Rousse, etc.

Parc du Capelan

Parc du Capelan is a park specially designed to welcome families. This tree-filled park located on the seaside, along the coastal path, offers a very pleasant setting for an afternoon with the family. From the park, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the sea and you can relax in the shade of the trees or play the game of boules (pétanque). About 50 meters away, you can reach the beach of the Capelan. The arch-shaped sandy and shingle beach is ideal for snorkeling.

Port de Bandol

Port de Bandol is the second-largest port in the region. With more than 1,700 moorings, it accommodates both yachts and fishing boats. Close to the port, Quai Charles de Gaulle is an emblematic and lively place in the town and has many restaurants. Sit down at the table of one of them to taste the region’s specialties and local cuisine. On this quay, you can also enjoy yourself, with friends or family, by going to a bar, going to see a film at the cinema, going bowling or dancing at a disco.

Practical information

  • Tourist Office of Bandol: http://www.bandoltourisme.fr/tourisme-214.html
  • Road service: A50 Highway (from Aix-en-Provence or Marseille), A8 Highway (from Nice)
  • Air access: Marseille Provence Airport (45 minutes), Toulon-Hyères Airport (45 minutes), Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (2 hours)
  • Railroad access: train station
  • Sea access: port
  • Also discover : Bandol markets

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