Île de Bendor, Mediterranean islet in Bandol, France.
Île de Bendor is a seven-hectare islet off the coast of Bandol, located 300 meters from the mainland. It features a small port, Mediterranean villas, and carefully designed squares adorned with neoclassical statues.
The islet originally served as an exile location in the 17th century and remained empty for 250 years afterward. Pastis producer Paul Ricard purchased and transformed it in 1951 into a residential and artistic destination.
The island functions as a Mediterranean art garden, displaying numerous sculptures including the Bendor Cross, the Botinelly monolith, and a statue of the Virgin by Raymond Servian. These works are scattered across its paved squares and pathways, inviting visitors to explore.
Ferries operate frequently between Bandol port and the islet, with crossing times of about five minutes. Service runs best during the warmer months from June through mid-September.
The islet contains one of the smallest ports on the Mediterranean coast, measuring 2,800 square meters with a water depth of 2 meters. This compact design makes it a remarkable example of maritime engineering.
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