Tucked along the rugged northern coast of Brittany in north-western France, Roscoff is a charming maritime town known for its historical port, seaside serenity, and wellness traditions.

Whether you’re arriving by ferry, on a coastal tour, or planning a tranquil retreat, Roscoff offers a delightful blend of old-world charm, gourmet cuisine, and natural beauty.

This guide explores Roscoff’s rich history, highlights top attractions, and suggests nearby spots worth visiting on your journey through Brittany.

Roscoff’s history stretches back centuries, originally established as a key trading and fishing port on the Bay of Morlaix.

Its strategic location attracted not only merchants but also military attention, including an attempted English invasion in the 16th century.

The town flourished in the 19th century thanks to a booming onion trade—Roscoff’s “Onion Johnnies” famously sold pink onions door-to-door across the UK.

Today, Roscoff retains its maritime spirit, with its stone buildings, active port, and proud Breton heritage inviting visitors to experience a truly authentic coastal town.

Start your visit with a stroll through Roscoff’s old harbour, where granite houses from the 16th century line cobbled streets.

The port is still bustling with activity, from fishing boats to ferries, offering a genuine feel of coastal life. Enjoy a coffee or crêpe at a café while watching the tide roll in and out.

The nearby Notre-Dame de Croaz-Batz church is a must-see, with its intricate Gothic facade and maritime-themed carvings.

Overlooking the sea, the Exotic Garden of Roscoff is a botanical wonderland with over 3,000 species of plants from around the world.

The garden is particularly known for its succulents, palms, and cacti, which thrive in Roscoff’s mild microclimate.

It’s a peaceful escape ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and families alike.

Roscoff is one of the pioneers of thalassotherapy—a marine-based wellness treatment that uses seawater, algae, and coastal air for healing.

The Institut de Thalassothérapie is renowned for its spa treatments and wellness programs.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, rejuvenation, or relief from ailments, a visit to one of Roscoff’s spas adds a luxurious touch to your stay.

Dive into Roscoff’s unique export history at this small but fascinating museum dedicated to the Onion Johnnies—Breton farmers who famously cycled around Britain selling onions.

Through artefacts, photos, and engaging displays, you’ll learn about a quirky yet culturally significant chapter in French-British trade history.

Roscoff’s local market, held weekly in the town square, is a great place to explore Breton gastronomy. Sample fresh oysters, kouign-amann pastries, buckwheat galettes, and of course, Roscoff’s pink onions.

Many local restaurants and creperies celebrate the region’s flavours with seafood platters and cider pairings.

Just a 15-minute ferry ride from the port, Île de Batz is a tranquil island haven with sandy beaches, scenic walking trails, and the stunning Georges Delaselle Garden.

Rent a bicycle or walk the coastal loop to fully enjoy this peaceful island getaway with panoramic views of the mainland.

A 30-minute drive inland, Morlaix boasts dramatic architecture including a massive 19th-century viaduct, timber-framed houses, and steep medieval lanes.

Visit the Musée des Jacobins and enjoy a scenic boat trip on the Dossen River.

Just minutes from Roscoff, this small town features the tallest church tower in Brittany—Katell Notre-Dame-du-Kreisker—and a peaceful, heritage-rich atmosphere.

Stroll its quiet streets and admire the Renaissance mansions.

This seaside town is ideal for family beach days, oyster tasting, or scenic walks.

Take a kayak trip to Château du Taureau, a fortress on an island built to guard the Bay of Morlaix.

A 25-minute drive west, Plouescat offers striking coastline dotted with prehistoric megaliths and peaceful beaches—perfect for hiking or exploring at low tide.

One hour from Roscoff, Brest is a larger city known for its naval base, Océanopolis aquarium, and modern maritime culture.

Great for a day trip packed with museums and harbourside dining.

Roscoff may be a small town, but it leaves a lasting impression with its blend of culture, history, wellness, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re relaxing at a spa, exploring an island, or sipping cider by the sea, this Breton destination promises a memorable and enriching stay.

Its convenient ferry connections and proximity to other coastal gems make it an ideal base for travellers looking to explore northern Brittany in depth.

Take a look at the ferry route on our Plymouth to Roscoff page.

Late spring to early autumn (May to September) offers the best weather, especially for outdoor activities and ferry connections to Île de Batz.

You can reach Roscoff via Brittany Ferries from Plymouth or Cork, or by train and bus from nearby cities like Brest and Morlaix.

Yes! Attractions like the exotic garden, local beaches, and Île de Batz make Roscoff ideal for a peaceful, family-friendly getaway.

Roscoff is famous for its sweet pink onions, fresh seafood (especially oysters), Breton crepes, cider, and kouign-amann pastries.