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There are an array of things to do in France, with Roscoff sharing quite a few of those!
Roscoff is a treasure trove of experiences just waiting to be uncovered, a vibrant coastal town nestled along the French coastline, bursting with unique treasures, hidden gems, and stunning sights waiting to dazzle your senses.
From savoring delectable local cuisine to working on your tan at the beach, Roscoff is a true feast for the senses.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Roscoff:
1. Roscoff Beach
A beach located in the small coastal town of Roscoff in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a swim in the clear blue waters, sunbathe on the soft sand, or take a leisurely stroll along the coastline.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of the nearby Île de Batz, a small island located just off the coast of Roscoff.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, visit during the summer months when the weather is warm and the beach is bustling with locals and tourists alike.
Be sure to pack sunscreen and a beach towel, as amenities on the beach are limited.
Additionally, consider taking a day trip to Île de Batz to explore more of the stunning coastline and charming fishing villages in the area.
2. Jardin Exotique et Botanique de Roscoff
Jardin Exotique et Botanique de Roscoff is a botanical garden located in the town of Roscoff in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: The garden is home to over 3500 species of plants from all around the world. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire the diverse collection of plants, trees, and flowers.
There are also several themed gardens within the grounds, including a Japanese garden, a Mediterranean garden, and a tropical garden.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the garden’s famous pink heather collection, which is in bloom from January to April.
The garden also has a popular market, where visitors can purchase a variety of plants and herbs to take home as souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, plan to visit the garden in the morning or early evening. The garden is also open year-round, so visitors can enjoy the changing seasons and different blooms throughout the year.
3. Chapelle Sainte-Barbe
Chapelle Sainte-Barbe is a small chapel situated on the edge of the Brittany coast in the charming town of Roscoff, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can simply enjoy the serenity of the chapel and take in the beautiful views of the ocean. The chapel is also a popular spot for photographers and artists due to its picturesque location.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Roscoff Botanical Gardens, which are replete with a variety of exotic plants and flowers.
Insider travel tips: If possible, plan your visit around sunset when the view is at its most spectacular. It’s also worth noting that the chapel is closed during the winter months, so plan accordingly.
Additionally, visitors should dress appropriately as it can get quite windy on the coast.
4. Le Cairn de Barnenez
Le Cairn de Barnenez is a prehistoric mausoleum located on the coast of Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the interior of the cairn, which contains 11 chambers and a central corridor. The walls are adorned with intricate carvings and engravings, some of which depict human faces and abstract symbols.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the panoramic view of the sea, as well as the surrounding landscape from the top of the cairn.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours exploring the cairn and its surroundings.
5. Promenade de la Vierge Noire
Promenade de la Vierge Noire is a scenic promenade along the coast of Roscoff, a charming town in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Stroll along the promenade and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea, the island of Batz, and the charming old town of Roscoff.
This is a popular spot for a leisurely walk, jogging, or cycling.
Don’t miss: The Black Virgin statue, after which the promenade is called, is located here. It’s a beautiful sculpture that’s worth taking a closer look at.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most picturesque views.
6. Notre-Dame de Croaz Batz
A medieval church situated in the quaint Breton town of Roscoff, France.
What to see or do: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the church, complete with intricate carvings and stained-glass windows. Take a walk around the beautiful surrounding gardens and enjoy a peaceful moment of reflection.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the stunning three-tiered altarpiece, featuring intricate carvings and beautiful religious artwork.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check out the church’s schedule for special events, such as concerts and art exhibitions, which are often held in the building.
Additionally, take a stroll through the surrounding town of Roscoff to experience its charming streets and delicious local seafood cuisine.
7. Pierre Loti
A museum dedicated to the famous French writer, Pierre Loti.
What to see or do: Explore the museum and learn about the life and travels of Pierre Loti, his collection of exotic objects, and his writing career.
Admire the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum, providing stunning views of the sea and the Calvary of Roscoff.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to see the writer’s personal effects, including his furniture, trinkets, and souvenirs from his travels around the world.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to take the time to enjoy a beautiful walk along the nearby Roscoff coast, where you’ll find picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and charming local village.
Consider visiting in the offseason to avoid crowds and to fully experience the tranquil atmosphere.
8. Maison des Johnnies et de l’Oignon de Roscoff
A museum dedicated to the history and culture of the Johnnies and Roscoff onions, which are famous French agricultural exports.
What to see or do: Tour the museum’s exhibits and learn about the history of the Johnnies, itinerant onion sellers who travelled to the UK to sell their wares in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Discover the story of the Roscoff onion, including how it is grown and its culinary uses. You can also buy Roscoff onions and other local produce at the museum’s shop.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to try some of the delicious Roscoff onion dishes on offer at the onsite restaurant.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s opening hours before you visit, as they can vary depending on the time of year. The museum is also closed on Mondays.
If you’re interested in the history of the Johnnies, consider visiting during the annual Onion Festival in August, when the town celebrates its onion-selling heritage with parades, markets, and other events.
9. Église Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption
Église Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption is a beautiful Catholic church located in the quaint town of Roscoff in Brittany, France. The church dates back to the 16th century and features a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive facade of the church, which is adorned with intricate stone carvings and a magnificent rose window.
Inside, there are several chapels and a nave decorated with ornate altarpieces and colorful stained glass windows.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the church’s famous organ, which was built in 1719 and is considered one of the finest examples of French baroque organ building.
The organ has undergone extensive restoration work in recent years and is now in excellent condition.
Insider travel tips: – Check the church’s website for information on mass times and special events.
10. La Maison d’Amour
La Maison d’Amour is a charming bed and breakfast located in the coastal town of Roscoff, France.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the picturesque streets of Roscoff, admire the charming architecture, and enjoy the fresh sea air. Visit the Jardin Exotique et Botanique de Roscoff, a beautiful botanical garden filled with exotic plants and flowers.
Explore the town’s historic harbor and take a ferry to the nearby Île de Batz.
Don’t miss: Enjoy a delicious homemade breakfast each morning at La Maison d’Amour, featuring fresh pastries, fruit, and local specialties. Relax in the beautiful garden and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.
Take part in one of the property’s immersive French cooking classes, where you’ll learn to make traditional regional dishes.
Insider travel tips: Book one of the rooms with a balcony for stunning views of the sea. Don’t forget to try some of the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants along the harbor.
Take a day trip to nearby towns such as Morlaix or Saint-Pol-de-Léon for more sightseeing opportunities.
11. Pointe de Perharidy
Pointe de Perharidy is a rocky headland located to the north-east of Roscoff.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the coastal paths and take in the stunning sea views.
Don’t miss: The Phare de Roscoff lighthouse situated on the Pointe de Perharidy offers panoramic views of the English Channel.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and a camera to capture the breathtaking views of the coastline. Additionally, visit during the off-season to avoid crowds.
12. Le port de plaisance de Roscoff
Roscoff marina is a charming port located in the north of Brittany, France, renowned for its picturesque scenery and strategic location as a gateway to the English Channel and the Atlantic Ocean.
What to see or do: Sailors and boaters flock here to dock at its modern facilities, renowned for its state-of-the-art services and welcoming staff who make docking and refuelling a breeze.
The marina also offers a range of water sports activities, including beaching, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss a stroll along the scenic seafront promenade, lined with trendy bars, restaurants, and boutiques offering the freshest local seafood and artisanal goods.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check out the local fish market, where you can purchase a wide range of freshly caught seafood.
You can also head over to the nearby historic town centre, which boasts a wide range of heritage attractions, including the gothic Notre-Dame de Croaz Batz church and St Pol de Léon cathedral.
For a more cultural experience, plan your visit during the annual Breton music festival, held in the summer months, when the marina transforms into a lively hub of festivities.
13. Communauté de l’Arche
Communauté de l’Arche is a social initiative located in Roscoff, Brittany, France, that aims to provide a welcoming home, work, and community for people with intellectual disabilities.
What to see or do: Visitors can participate in various workshops and activities with the residents, including gardening, baking, and arts and crafts. The community also has a shop where you can purchase handmade crafts and products made by the residents.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to meet and interact with the residents who are always happy to welcome visitors.
If you’re there during the summer, be sure to attend their annual music festival that brings together musicians from all over the world.
Insider travel tips: If you want to explore the surrounding area, it’s recommended to rent a bike or a car as the community is located a bit outside Roscoff.
The welcome center is open daily, but it’s best to call ahead to confirm opening hours, especially during the low season.
14. Jardin Georges Delaselle
Jardin Georges Delaselle is a stunning botanical garden located on the island of Batz, situated just off the coast of Roscoff in Brittany.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through this 7-acre garden and be surrounded by an array of exotic flowers, plants, and trees from around the world.
The garden features a large collection of camellias, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons, as well as an impressive display of palm trees and bamboo.
The garden is also home to a variety of bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watching.
Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Japanese-style garden, which is complete with a koi pond, a small waterfall, and a traditional tea house.
The garden also provides breathtaking views of the neighboring island of Roscoff and the Brittany coastline.
Insider travel tips: – The garden is open daily from April to September, and only on weekends during the offseason.
15. Château du Taureau
Château du Taureau is a 16th-century fortified castle located on an island in the Baie de Morlaix, near Roscoff in Brittany, France.
What to see or do: Take a boat ride to the island and explore the castle’s fortifications, including the drawbridge, ramparts, and battlements. Visit the living quarters, chapel, and gunpowder room to experience life at the time.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding coastlines from the top of the castle. Keep an eye out for dolphins in the water!
Insider travel tips: Be sure to check the tide times before your visit, as Château du Taureau can only be accessed by boat during certain hours of the day.
Also, bring appropriate footwear for the uneven terrain and steep staircases within the castle.