A New Wellness Destination in the Mediterranean
Nestled off the coast of the South of France, a private island is rapidly gaining recognition as the latest wellness hotspot in the Mediterranean. This transformation has been spearheaded by Zannier Hotels, a brand known for its artisanal approach to hospitality across Europe, Africa, and Asia. The recent unveiling of Zannier Île de Bendor marks a significant milestone, offering a 93-key retreat on Bendor Island.
After a five-year renovation that restored parts of the island, the project has reimagined holistic wellbeing through advanced bioresonance technology. This innovative system maps the body’s energetic and physiological state, enabling wellness practitioners to create tailored treatment, movement, and nutrition plans for guests.
A Legacy of Relaxation and Culture
Located just a seven-minute boat ride from the Provençal coastal town of Bandol, Bendor Island was originally purchased in 1950 by French entrepreneur Paul Ricard. His vision was to create a social and cultural hub where locals, families, and celebrities could escape the daily hustle and immerse themselves in the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea.
Inspired by Ricard’s philosophy of “nul bien sans peine” or "no pain no gain," each stay at the island begins with a bioresonance session. These initial consultations aim to highlight stress, energy levels, and overall balance, setting the stage for a personalized wellness journey.
Zannier Île de Bendor has also launched its Rēsonance approach to wellbeing, which empowers guests to connect deeply with their own body energy. According to Arnaud Zannier, founder of the hotel, this approach is a journey of self-awareness and subtle transformation, providing tools and guidance so individuals can understand and restore balance, wherever they are in life.
Diverse Accommodations for Every Traveler
The hotel’s 93 keys are spread across three styles of stay, all within one hotel along the harbour. Each accommodation option offers a unique experience:
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Madrague Houses: These five two-storey homes combine authentic Provençal charm with rustic simplicity and elegance. Set in converted fishermen’s cottages, each stay can accommodate two adults and features a lounge area on the ground floor, a king-sized bed upstairs, and a private garden.
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Delos Rooms and Suites: Designed to evoke the 1960s South of France, these rooms and suites embody refinement, glamour, and a vibrant atmosphere. The Delos Suite offers a panoramic sea view from its terrace, while the Delos Harbour Suite provides a private terrace view over Bendor harbour. Smaller Delos Rooms are ideal for couples seeking a cosier vibe.
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Soukana Suites and Rooms: Focused on reconnection and relaxation, these accommodations include the Family Suite, Terrace Suite, and Sunrise Room, each designed to cater to different needs.
A night’s stay at Zannier Île de Bendor in August starts from €815, excluding city tax.
Tailored Wellness Programmes
After guests complete their personalized consultations, the retreat offers five signature wellness programmes to explore:
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Florea – Digestive Harmony: Combines abdominal massage, reflexology, naturopathy consultation, and workshops in castor oil therapy and abdominal breathing to support the microbiome from the inside out.
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Serena – The Art of Letting Go: An immersive water-based experience, or Aqua Rēsonance, to encourage deep release and fluidity. Paired with botanical massage, sound healing, and Qigong, it focuses on emotional restoration.
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Harmonia – Hormonal Vitality & Balance Programme: Focuses on somatic practices and specialist therapies to offer an inclusive approach to wellbeing.
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Maestria – Energetic Awakening: Designed for fitness enthusiasts and athletes, combining sports massage with deep tissue therapy, osteopathy, and cryotherapy.
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Lumea – Skin Within: Combines facials, LED therapy, and full-body treatments to promote a more relaxed and radiant complexion.
Culinary Experiences on the Island
Dining options on the island are diverse and enticing. At the gourmet Le Grand Large, guests can enjoy five and seven-course menus curated by Chef Lucas Antoniotti and his team. For those spending the day by the shore, All-day dining at Nonna Beach offers a side of the Mediterranean Sea.

A nod to the late-owner of the island, the Café Paul Ricard & Crêperie is a quaint Provençal bistro with a large terrace directly overlooking the harbour. Beyond overnight stays, Zannier Île de Bendor's offerings are not solely reserved for hotel guests. Its wellness and dining experiences are open to non-guests looking to experience a restorative escape, even if just for a day.


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