Roscoff

Located on the northern coast of Finistère, Roscoff is a small town full of character, with a rich heritage, picturesque coastal landscapes and an authentic atmosphere. This charming commune Breton offers a multitude of activities and discoveries for visitors in search of authenticity and natural beauty.

Discovering Roscoff

Founded in the XVIᵉ century, Roscoff has preserved its traditional architecture with granite houses adorned with finely sculpted dormer windows and cobbled streets. The old port, once a haunt of privateers and smugglers, is now a must-see place to stroll and admire the colorful boats and the comings and goings of fishermen.

Notre-Dame-de-Croaz-Batz church, built between 1522 and 1545, is a remarkable example of the Breton flamboyant Gothic style. Its Renaissance bell tower and sculpted ornamentation bear witness to the town's past prosperity.

The beaches of Roscoff

Roscoff is lined with picturesque beaches that invite you to relax and contemplate. Rockroum beach, close to the town center, is ideal for a family swim thanks to its calm waters and fine sand. A little further west, the Pointe de Perharidy beach offers a wild setting with dunes and rocks, ideal for strolling and discovering the local flora and fauna.

Islands to visit around Roscoff

Among the treasures to discover around Roscoff, theBatz Island is not to be missed. Accessible in just 15 minutes by ferry from the old port, this unspoilt island offers a varied landscape of fine sandy beaches, coastal paths and exotic gardens. Visit Georges Delaselle Gardencreated in 1897, houses an impressive collection of exotic plants from all five continents.

Sights in and around Roscoff

Roscoff and the surrounding area are brimming with tourist sites that will delight lovers of history, nature and gastronomy. Here's a selection of must-sees.

• The House of Johnnies and Onions in Roscoff The Johnnies: This museum traces the history of the "Johnnies", the pink onion merchants who crossed the Channel to sell their produce in England. An immersion in a unique local tradition.

• Roscoff Exotic and Botanical Garden Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, this garden features over 3,500 species of plants from the southern hemisphere. An exotic stroll among cacti, palms and other botanical curiosities.

• La Chapelle Sainte-Barbe : Situated on a hill with panoramic views over Morlaix Bay, this 17thᵉ century chapel is a peaceful place conducive to meditation and contemplation.

• Château de Kerjean : Twenty kilometers from Roscoff, this Renaissance château is a testament to Breton architecture of the XVIᵉ century. Its gardens and museum offer an insight into regional history.

The region around Roscoff

The Pays de Léon, of which Roscoff is a part, is a region rich in heritage and varied landscapes. Visit parish enclosuresThese architectural ensembles, typical of North Finistère, are treasures to be discovered. Visit Enclos Paroissiaux Interpretation Centre of Guimiliau offers an immersion in the history of these unique monuments.

Nature lovers will appreciate the Keremma dunesA protected natural area offering exceptional dune landscapes and remarkable biodiversity.

Restaurant in Roscoff: local flavours and marine experiences

Roscoff, a charming Breton town on the English Channel, is first and foremost a gourmet destination. Picturesque architecture, seafood products and local traditions, Roscoff's restaurants appeal to lovers of good food. This guide explores the best addresses and must-taste culinary specialties.

Renowned starred and gourmet establishments

Among the most prestigious tables Le Brittanya 2025 Michelin-starred Relais & Châteaux establishment. Facing the bay, this restaurant offers a wide range of modern marine kitchensublimated by Japanese influences, orchestrated by chef Loïc Le Bail. Seafood in an elegant setting with panoramic views.

Another outstanding culinary address, L'Écume des JoursThe new, gastronomically-acclaimed "Tête de Gastronomie" offers a refined seain a cosy setting.

Breweries and seafood restaurants within easy reach

More affordable restaurants abound: Le Bellevue (rated 4.5 on TripAdvisor), Les Alizés, Les Arcades or even Fleur Marine offer excellent value for money. They feature fish, shellfish and seafood plattersoften with ocean views.

• Le BellevueThis family-friendly restaurant offers traditional seafood cuisine, with a terrace facing the port. .

• Les Alizésa friendly brasserie serving mussels and fish in a convivial setting .

• Les Arcades offers a lively brasserie, perfectly suited to groups, with fish and seafood dishes and sea views.

• Fleur Marinerated 8.5/10 on TheFork, offers creative local cuisine, fish and seafood, in a panoramic setting

World flavors and local creperies

Roscoff also appeals to lovers of world cuisine and Breton specialities:

• Halong Bay (Chinese/Vietnamese cuisine/tea) offers refined Asian dishes in a modern setting.

• Chez Janiea local institution with a family spirit, offers seafood and pizzas, appreciated for its friendly welcome..

• The town boasts several authentic crêperies: Crêperie du Quai, Crêperie de la Poste, Ti Saozon, Les Amours Jaunesand the crêperie-bistrot La P'Tit Fabrik combining savoury/sweet crepes and tarts . Brittany's crêpes and galettes feature local ingredients, includingRoscoff PDO oniona famous local product

An iodized terroir and a friendly atmosphere

Roscoff's restaurants take full advantage of the riches of Brittany's terroir: ultra-fresh seafood, locally caught fish, and seasonal vegetables, complemented by the local 'l'AOC', a local delicacy.Roscoff onion - a regional pride PDO . The atmosphere oscillates between waterside refinement and the conviviality of brasseries, often family-run.

The Wednesday market and local producers strengthen the link between cuisine and terroir, promoting short circuits and ultra-fresh produce. .

Finding your way around: recommendations by type

Tips for the right choice

• Reservations recommended for Le Brittany and L'Écume des Jours, especially in summer.

• Opening hoursMost crêperies open for lunch and dinner, but some close in the afternoon.

• Avoiding the market? Think of "formula" lunch menus (< €30) at places like Le Local

Thalassotherapy in Roscoff: exceptional well-being by the sea

Roscoff is the cradle of thalassotherapy in France. It was here, in 1899, that Dr. Louis-Eugène Bagot founded the first thalasso institute, laying the foundations for a therapeutic approach based on the "thalasso".heated seawaterthe marine algae and theiodized air.

The origins of thalasso: Dr. Bagot's story

Louis-Eugène Bagot, a doctor who started out as a sailor, settled in Roscoff and discovered the curative virtues of bubbling seawater. He founded the Roc'h Kroum Marine Institute to treat rheumatism, tuberculosis and skin disorders using heated seawater and marine elements.. This method has since been adopted worldwide.

Today's thalasso centers

The heart of thalasso in Roscoff is represented by the Valdys Resort Roscoff - Hotel Thalasso & Spadirect heir to the Bagot institute. It proposes :

• A marine spa with heated seawater pool, sauna, steam room, panoramic whirlpool baths and solarium;

• A la carte treatments : seaweed wrapsscrubs, massages, facials and anti-aging treatments;

• An ambience in keeping with the traditions of thalassotherapy, integrated into a setting overlooking the Ile de Batz and the beach. .

Why choose Roscoff for your wellness break?

1. Unique heritage Roscoff is considered to be the "source of modern thalassotherapy", making it an ideal destination for wellness enthusiasts. .

2. Recognized marine environment The iodized air, oscillating tides and mineral-enriched local seawater make this a completely therapeutic site. .

3. Complete equipment The resort has everything you need on site - spa, hammam, swimming pools, restaurant, fitness center - for a stress-free stay. .

Customer feedback and recognition

The feedback is very positive. On TripAdvisor, visitors highlight the professional teamsquality of care, and a breathtaking view on the bay, indicating a very good relaxation experience .

Formulas and rates

Access to the marine spa starts at around €29 - €31 depending on the season, with specific à la carte treatments (€52 for one treatment, up to €85 for massages or facials).. The resort offers short stays (weekends) or 3 to 6-day cures, including accommodation and treatments.

Tips for preparing your stay

• Think about book in advanceespecially in high season (summer and school holidays).

• Opt for a minimum 3-day stay to fully benefit from the cumulative effects of marine treatments.

• Combine care with walks on Batz Island or coastal walks for total immersion in the marine environment

In a nutshell

Thalassotherapy in Roscoff has a unique history spanning over 120 years, linked to the origins of modern thalassotherapy. Visit Valdys Resort Roscoff - Hotel Thalasso & Spa embodies this heritage with a variety of treatments, an exceptional maritime setting and a commitment to quality that is highly acclaimed by visitors. Whether for a wellness getaway or a complete cure, Roscoff offers an authentic and restorative marine experience.

The tides at Roscoff: understanding the rhythms of the ocean

Roscoff, on the north coast of Finistère, is experiencing dynamic maritime environmentBrittany: tides dictate local life, fishing, sailing and even tourism. With amplitudes that can exceed 8 m, these Breton tides command respect and fascination.

Tide times today and tomorrow

Tide coefficients and amplitude

Visit tidal coefficientan essential indicator at Roscoff, varies significantly: around 40-50 at full moon (tides of vives-eaux) and up to 80+ during periods of high tide. The higher the coefficient, the greater the difference between high and low water. In July 2025, this coefficient rises from 44 to 47 this Monday, then reaches 50-54 on Tuesday, rising gradually to 80-81 next Sunday.

Weekly cycle and spring tides

Between July 6 and 13, high tide levels rise:

• Tuesday 8: high around 05:08 (~7.16 m) and 17:33 (~7.52 m)

• Thursday 10: high at 06:39 (~7.69 m) and 18:55 (~8.08 m)

• Sunday 13: highest point of the week with high water around 08:36 (≈8.20 m) and 20:51 (≈8.55 m), with a coefficient reaching 80-81

These high tides offer ideal conditions for fishing, safe sailing and spectacular coastal walks.

Impact on local life

• Fishing on foot At low tide, the coast is wide open for shellfish harvesting. It's vital to follow the opening hours to guarantee safety and resources .

• Navigation The following points should be borne in mind: yachtsmen should plan their outings according to high tides, especially at high coefficients, to avoid strong currents.

• Beaches & Beaches The high seas are ideal for swimming and water sports, while the low seas stretch as far as the eye can see.

How to follow the tides in Roscoff

• Sites like Tide-Forecast list the precise times and heights of each high and low tide, providing a complete calendar over several days.

• L'Roscoff Tourist Office also offers coefficients and timetables according to date, essential for visitors

• Visit SHOM (French Hydrographic Service) offers year-round access to all major tides; useful for anticipating high water levels.

Weather Roscoff

A cool, regular oceanic climate

Roscoff benefits from open ocean climateinfluenced by the English Channel and a moderate sea current (8-18°C), which moderates seasonal variations. In winter, average temperatures are low but rarely extreme: highs are around 10°C - 11°C, lows around 4°C - 5°C. . Conditions were wet, with heavy rainfall in January, nearly 133 mm over twenty days.

Mild, pleasant and sunny summers

Summer in Roscoff is cool and pleasant, with daily temperatures rising slowly from 17°C in June to 21°C in July and August.. July is the mildest month: days around 21°C - 23°C, nights at 13°C - 14°C.. Heat peaks are moderate, rarely exceeding 24°C. Sunshine increases significantly, with around 61 % of clear skies at the end of July. . In August, there are around 11.8 hours of sunshine and highs of around 20°C. .

Regular rainfall and humidity

Rainfall is distributed throughout the year: around 1,000 mm annually., or between fifty and one hundred days of rain per year. The rainiest months are December, November and January (over 120 mm/month). . Summer was drier: in July, just 47 mm over twelve days; in August, 8.9 mm/day, i.e. 24 % of rainy days. .

Wind and humidity

Roscoff is known for its constant winds. Average wind speeds are high: around 28 km/h on an annual average, rising to 32-33 km/h in winter.. Even in summer, there's a refreshing sea breeze (15-17 mph, or 24-28 km/h). . Relative humidity remains high (80 % to 85 %), peaking at 88 % in autumn and winter. .

Sunshine and daylight

Days are very long in summer: up to 16 h of daylight around June 21, declining to 13 h at the end of August. . In April, days are already 13.6 h long, with nearly 48 % of clear sky.. In winter, on the other hand, short, grey days dominate.

A climate conducive to thalassotherapy

Thanks to its iodized breezes and moderate temperatures, Roscoff is a Mecca for thalassotherapy As early as 1899, this marine climate inspired the creation of seawater treatment institutes.

Seasonal summary

• Winter (Dec-Feb) Cool (4-10°C), humid, strong winds.

• Spring (March-May) temperatures doubled (8-14°C), frequent rain, partly clear skies.

• Summer (June-August) mild (17-21°C), sunny, dry and windy.

• Autumn (Sept-Nov) Return of rains, 11-16°C, high humidity.

Why it's fun to visit

Roscoff's climate is ideal for enjoying the Breton coast without a heatwave; summer temperatures remain comfortable. The diversity of the seasons means you can tailor your visit to suit your tastes: spring hikes, beach bathing in summer, treatments at the marine center all year round.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Roscoff

How to get to Roscoff

Roscoff can be reached by road via the D58 from Morlaix. The city also has a deep-water port served by ferries from the UK and Ireland, operated by Brittany Ferries.

When is the best time to visit Roscoff?

The summer period, from June to September, is ideal for enjoying the beaches and water sports. However, Roscoff's mild climate makes for pleasant visits all year round.

What are Roscoff's culinary specialities?

Roscoff is famous for its rosé onions, which have had the AOC label since 2009. Seafood, such as shellfish, is also a staple of local gastronomy.