04 September 2020 by Jessica Boston

A port apart, make Roscoff your next holiday destination!

Roscoff is a pretty seaside town on the Brittany coast. It’s an ideal resort for a short break in France or a wonderful place to linger for a day or two to extend your holiday if your Brittany Ferries crossing arrives or departs at the port here.

The town itself has a rich history with many gothic houses built by wealthy ship-owners and traders from days gone by. As well as the port that made its fortune, Roscoff is a charming place for a seaside holiday with golden sandy beaches and plenty to entertain for a relaxing getaway enjoying the simple pleasures of France.

Don’t miss…

Learning about the ‘Onion Johnnies’…

Perhaps one of Roscoff’s most famous exports, the ‘Onion Johnnies’ were enterprising young men who brought the sweet, pink Roscoff onions over to the UK on bicycles to sell to English customers in the early 19th century. At the peak in the 1920s there were over 1,000 Onion Johnnies trading onions and garlic in their striking Breton striped tops and berets. Today you can visit a museum dedicated to the Onion Johnnies and even try out balancing the heavy strings of onions on your shoulders! Take your research to the next level by finding a tour at an onion farm, and buying some in the local market to enjoy on your stay or bring home as souvenirs.

Exploring Ile de Batz…

Just off the coast of Roscoff lies the beautiful island Ile de Batz. With just 500 inhabitants, few cars, and beautiful unspoilt beaches it’s well worth a visit! Cycling is the best way to get about here and there are bicycles to hire if you haven’t brought your own. Discover deserted beaches, visit the island’s lighthouse and climb the 198 steps up to enjoy the view, and treat yourself to delicious crepes or a refreshing Breton cider at one of the road or portside cafes.

Escaping to the tropics…

The botanical gardens ‘Jardins Exotique et Botanique’ in Roscoff are a treat for any gardener with a maze of interconnecting themed gardens showcasing tropical plants, cacti and even featuring a pond of exotic Koi Carp. Climb to the top of the gardens for lovely views over the beach and ferry port. Set right in the town it’s a lovely, and unexpected, place stop on a walking tour of Roscoff.

Visiting the beautiful maritime church…

A trip to Roscoff wouldn’t be complete without taking time to see Notre Dame de Croaz Batz. As is often the case with port towns, the church displays a maritime theme in the stained glass and decoration reflecting the prayers of local people to keep their seafaring families and friends safe on the sea. It’s especially beautiful when lit up in the evenings.

Seeing (and tasting) the seaweed…

The seaweed industry in Finistere is thriving and the local marine biology centre is finding out new things about all this fascinating plant group can offer. From beauty treatments and therapeutic ‘cures’ in thalassotherapy, to nutritious foods and supplements, the benefits are clear! Visit Algoplus to hear all about the industry, see the process of harvesting seaweeds and enjoy a tasting session before browsing in the shop for unique seaweed based treats and gifts.

Roscoff is the perfect resort for a quiet seaside holiday, it has everything you need for a lovely bucket-and-spade break, with the sophistication of excellent seafood and spa treatments, and a sprinkling of unique and interesting history. Next time you go to France, sail into Roscoff and start your holiday in style… you might not want to leave!