What to do in Bandol?
Located on the Mediterranean coast, the town of Bandol is very popular with visitors, especially during the summer season. In the heart of the Var department, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region, it is only 20 minutes from Toulon and 30 minutes from the Calanques de Cassis.
It is a favourite destination because this small town takes on the appearance of a paradise village when you venture into its narrow streets.
It is the ideal destination to relax and enjoy all the advantages of the south of France.
Where to swim in Bandol?
Here is an overview of the places and beaches where you can swim in Bandol.
Our sandy beaches are marked in yellow and our pebble beaches in blue.
The small dog paw symbol indicates beaches reserved for our four-legged friends.
Numerous activities
Bandol offers a wide range of activities, particularly outdoor pursuits.
Its market is very popular with visitors seeking Provençal flavours, especially the one held at the harbour, which brings together local fishermen and market gardeners.
The sandy beaches allow you to enjoy the sun and swimming to the full, including the private La Petite Plage beach at the Hôtel Plein Large, nestled in the Renécros cove, which guarantees a calm and serene environment.
Walking enthusiasts particularly enjoy the hiking trails and excursions in search of small pebble coves where they can cool off away from the hustle and bustle.
Bandol is also well located on the Provence wine route, so make the most of your stay to discover some iconic estates, including Château Salettes, which belongs to the owner of the Hôtel Plein Large.
A wellness break at the Hotel Plein Large
Holidays spent at Hotel Plein Large
in Bandol in the Var region are designed to be unique experiences where your well-being is paramount.
There is a permanent view of the sea from the rooms
as well as from the restaurant or Le Spot bar on the pier. You are constantly connected to the natural environment and the coastline.
To accompany your swims in the Mediterranean, you can enjoy a relaxing break with our spa treatments and massages.
The rooftop solarium is ideal for perfecting your tan in complete tranquillity while sipping a cocktail from Le Spot bar.
The Bandol Wine Route
These wines, each richer than the last, boast a colour palette ranging from white to red, including the famous rosé. These AOC Bandol wines are perfect for any festive occasion.
The rosé is synonymous with seaside holidays and aperitifs on the terrace after a beautiful sunny afternoon.
We offer personalised tours of our Domaine Châteaux Salettes estate on Saturday afternoons.
This wine tasting is open to all lovers of local produce. Located on the Bandol wine route, this family estate will welcome you with special attention.
Water sports
The Bandol Nautical Society offers lessons and introductory courses in various sailing activities, such as windsurfing, wing foiling, kayaking and group sailing for adults and children.
Extrême Surfing Bandol Club: This stand-up paddleboarding, surfing and bodyboarding club offers introductory and advanced lessons, as well as equipment hire. For a stand-up paddle trip until sunset...
Bandol Plongée: This school is a French diving school/PADI. Approved Youth and Sports Centre for first dives, explorations and certifications.
Cruise to Porquerolles Island with Atlantide: Not far from Port-Cros National Park, this little paradise has a Caribbean feel. After an hour and a half sailing along the Provençal coastline, the Atlantide will drop you off for a 6-hour stopover.
The Hikes
Our hotel is an ideal base from which to take guided tours led by tour guides from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
They will show you cultural sites located less than an hour from your hotel, including Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Toulon, Le Castellet and Saint-Maximin La Sainte Baume, whose basilica houses the relics of Mary Magdalene. If you are planning to visit Marseille, we recommend taking the train rather than driving.
During the day in Marseille, we recommend visiting the Old Port and During the day in Marseille, we recommend visiting the Old Port and
taking the RTM bus 60 to Notre-Dame de la Garde.
As for Aix-en-Provence, a day trip is a must to fully enjoy the city's attractions, including the market at Place Richelme in the morning, Old Aix and Cours Mirabeau. There are two options for getting to Toulon: train or car. We recommend visiting this city in the morning to enjoy the market on Cours Layette, one of the most beautiful markets in the Var region. As for Le Castellet, it is a 20-minute drive from your hotel. It is a charming medieval village offering unparalleled views of Sainte-Baume.
There are many hiking trails to choose from, particularly the Littoral trail, Bandol's flagship walk. It's a great way to take in the stunning views and discover the coastal flora. It's even accessible from our establishment! Our reception is at your disposal for any further information.
To go further –
Visit Marseille with Guides France, Guided Tour of Aix-en-Provence,
Guided Tour of Toulon – Visit the Var
