Luxury Travel Insider · Wednesday, September 30, 2026
Arnault explains that Île de Bendor was a key destination for wealthy French families in the early 20th century, predating the rise of Cannes and Saint-Tropez. Purchased by Paul Ricard in 1950, it has remained in the same family and offers a less flashy, more unadulterated experience compared to its glamorous Riviera counterparts. The island is an hour's drive from Marseille Airport.
“In fact, Bendor, uh, beginning of the century, 1900, was one of the key destination for the French wealthy families.”
“It's not as flashy or fancy as Ccenter pe or, uh, Monaco Can.”
“So for us, it was a challenge as well because we're trying to create an island destination in a part of Cdezur, which is not yet that level.”
“It's an hour drive from the airport.”