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Roscoff

Roscoff is a charming small Breton fishing village, put on the map by its international ferry port. The town is a busy fishing village with a lively fish market and was made famous by its thalassotherapy in 1899 thanks to its location on the Gulf Stream. Today Roscoff is a lively town during the summer months, and is regarded as Europe's most unsuspecting ferryport due to its unique charm and unspoilt streets. It is very easy to miss the town itself when driving from the port, but you will be pleasantly rewarded for your curiosity.

Port Guide

Roscoff's ferry terminal 'Port du Bloscon' was opened in September 1972 in anticipation of Brittany Ferries new service in 1973. The port was officially opened on the 1st January 1973, the maiden sailing departing the following day to Plymouth with the Kerisnel. Since then Roscoff has remained as the home of Brittany Ferries who offer regular sailings to Plymouth and Cork. In 2000 Irish Ferries began seasonal operations from the port to Rosslare. Dubbed as the channels most unsuspecting international ferry port, Roscoff has grown significantly over the years, with the terminal being refurbished in 1998.

Plans are taking shape for the construction of a new 625 place marina at the port, with construction scheduled to start in 2009. The 41 million euro project will also see the development of the deep water port, with a planned completion date of 2012.

Our Guide

Many passengers on arrival at Roscoff drive out of the port and turn left towards the motorways. If only they would turn right they would discover the delights offered by Roscoff. Roscoff is now quite tourist orientated in the summer months but it has still managed to retain its charm as a typical Breton town. Attractions in Roscoff include an Aquarium (located behind the church square facing the sea) displaying fascinating displays of marine fauna and flora, Exotic Gardens, and boat trips which allow you to visit the magnificient Ille de Batz. Regular ferries serve the island from the pier at a nominal cost. The town centre is home to the church of Notre Dame de Kroaz Braz and has recently been beautifully restored, being a fine example of 16th century flamboyant gothic art.

Accommodation

Spending a night in Roscoff is a must, and is ideal if you are catching an early morning ferry departure back to the UK or arriving in the evening. Staying in Roscoff will also put you in an ideal position to explore the town and its many attractions. bfenthusiasts have a selection of hotels in which we have stayed and can recommended:

Hotel Talabardon -  This hotel has been run by the same family since 1890. Its traditional Breton charm has been carried through the generations and the hotel remains one of the most popular in Roscoff. Many rooms have panoramic rooms overlooking the Isle de Batz and harbour and the gastronomic delights served in the restaurant are not to be missed. Our favourite hotel in Roscoff.

Le Brittany - This hotel is rich in history. Initially a manor this building was moved brick by brick to its current location. It has been home to many famous faces including Prince Charles. The hotel offers an indoor swimming pool an excellent restaurant and its own gardens. This hotel is part of the Silence and Chateaux Hotel groups.

Le Triton -  This is a two star hotel located just off the centre of the town only a five minute walk from the church and shopping streets. A friendly family run hotel with charming rooms with antique Breton furnishings.

Restaurants

Roscoff is an ideal place to sample traditional Breton crepes, as well as local seafood produce including the famous Moules (mussels). Our favourite restaurants include 'Les Temps de Vivre', 'Creperie Central' and our favourite bar is 'Ty Piere' (Pierre's House)  all located in the town centre. With locals proud of their produce, don't be surprised if you ask for a Coke and are served the local Breton cola, Briezh Cola!

Transport

By Car: From Morlaix follow the N58 to Roscoff, the D69 from Brest and Quimper. The town and port are well-signed.

By Train: Roscoff has regular services to Morlaix, where mainline TGV services can be caught. It's worth noting, that as with many regional services in France, you may be waiting at the train station only to find the service is being run by a bus! Check the timetable carefully! It is however worth noting that when a service is operated by bus, it calls at the ferry port.

By Sea: Regular passenger ferries operate to/from the Isle de Batz.

By Bus: A regular bus service runs between Roscoff and Morlaix.