With the launch of Zannier Hotels’ new island destination set for May 2026, we caught up with Arnaud to talk about travel, his inspiration and all things island life.
“We’ve been working on this project for nearly five years now,” Arnaud began on the opening of Zannier Bendor. “We have developed a whole island concept around the idea of a Provençal village made of a hotel featuring three architectural styles, eight F&B outlets and a large wellness area, as well as an artisan village.”
Just a seven-minute boat ride from the coastal town of Bandol in Provence, the Madrague houses offer rustic simplicity, the Soukana feature raw materials and neutral tones that create a true haven of tranquillity, and the Delos embodies the refinement and glamour of the 1960s French Riviera. With three restaurants, four bars, and a hotel boutique (where you can pick up your Love Brand essentials), Zannier Bendor combines the warmth of Provencal life with the French Riviera’s vibrant social scene.
The team were initially approached by the Richard family with the aim of turning the island into one of Europe’s most iconic destinations. “We wanted to pay tribute to Paul Richard, who imagined this island as a destination in itself,” Arnaud said. This will mark one of the first times Zannier Hotels will manage and operate an entire island destination. “It’s very exciting and definitely part of our group’s direction”.
It was the sheer scale of the project that drew the team to the island. “We like challenges at Zannier Hotels, and after the desert, seaside, and savannah, we thought developing a hotel on an island was a great one.” There’s just something about island life, from the sound of the waves to “the unique harmony with nature that you simply can’t find anywhere else.” Arnaud explained, “Island life allows you to reconnect with yourself and the natural world, which is exactly what we aim to do at Zannier Bendor.”
On the island, life moves at a slower pace compared to the hustle and bustle of city life. “Living on an island influences your daily rhythm as the natural setting becomes an active part of your life. Arnaud said, “It integrates with your daily schedule, sunlight, swift winds, and wave tones gently guide you when you wake, walk and work.”
If you’re ready to drift away, discover zannierhotels.com.
