In 1759, it was from Cap-des-Rosiers that the French caught sight of General Wolfe's fleet navigating towards Quebec City. This place was also witness to many shipwrecks including that of the Carrick where 130 Irish immigrants perished. The 37-meter lighthouse was built in 1858 and is the highest in Canada. In 1971, the village was annexed to the city of Gaspe.
Cap-des-Rosiers is the entrance to Forillon National Park where a variety of activities (hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, swimming, scuba diving, animal watching and plant observation) are possible. Deep-sea fishing expeditions and cruises are offered by the local people.