Discover Bandol by the water, along the coastal path, and through art and tastings. When choosing activities, it is helpful to distinguish between an individual coastal destination, a route with named endpoints, and an observation trip: Crique de l'Anglaise is a cove, the Sentier du Littoral runs from Bandol to Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, and the Aquascope offers views of the Mediterranean near the coast. The Galerie Ravaisou and the Oenothèque de Bandol add their own cultural and culinary touches.
Coast: Pebble Cove and Sentier du Littoral
Crique de l'Anglaise is a secluded pebble cove along the coastal path, with views of Île Rousse. Small sheltered spots lie among the rocks beneath umbrella pines; the cove offers good opportunities for snorkelling. It is accessible only on foot from Capélan Beach. Local conditions can change, so check them before your visit.
The coastal experiences differ in how you reach them: you can walk to the cove from Capélan Beach; the Sentier du Littoral can be walked from the centre of Bandol to the port of La Madrague in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. Check for trail closures and conditions before setting out. Along the Sentier du Littoral, the sensitive coastal areas are accessible to everyone and are especially suitable for observing flora and fauna. Weather, fire risk or safety restrictions may affect access to protected areas.
Harbour and Underwater Observation
Bandol harbour is in the town centre, and you can explore the town directly from its quayside. At Quai d'honneur, Atlantide, also known as Aquascope, offers educational underwater observation trips. With its partially submerged transparent hull, the Aquascope reveals the animal and plant life of the Mediterranean near the coast; the trips go close to ĂŽle de Bendor. This makes the trip different from observing the coastal areas: here, the focus is on life in the water, while there it is on coastal flora and fauna. Operating periods and booking conditions may change; check them before making plans.
Art, Diving History and Wine
The Galerie Ravaisou hosts exhibitions throughout the year, featuring photographs, paintings, sculptures and ceramics. Guided tours are also offered year-round, giving visitors a chance to discover the works on display. Visitor arrangements may vary depending on the exhibition programme. Alongside the natural attractions, the gallery offers its own way to experience art in Bandol.
The town also has a historical connection to the history of diving: autonomous diving was developed in Bandol in June 1943, during the occupation. This historical development is distinct in time from the educational underwater observation trips offered to visitors.
The Oenothèque de Bandol offers tastings of selected AOC wines from Bandol. Anyone wishing to include a wine tasting among their activities, alongside the coast and art, will find a specific offering there.
Discover more destinations: Esparron, Claviers, Figanieres, Ampus, Seillans, Grimaud, La Bouillabaisse, Le Flayosquet
For the broader travel overview: Var.
