Treasure Hunt : The prisoner of the Bastille

Discover the Exciting World of the Bastille Treasure Hunt

For those eager to experience a hands-on journey into one of the most iconic moments of French history, the Treasure Hunt: The prisoner of the Bastille offers an engaging way to do so. Priced at $19 per person and lasting about 2 hours, this outdoor adventure takes place in Ile-de-France and invites participants to relive July 14th, 1789, the day that marked the start of the French Revolution. The experience is perfect for history enthusiasts and puzzle lovers alike who are comfortable with French language gameplay.

This treasure hunt is designed to immerse you in the chaos and excitement of the storming of the Bastille by following in the footsteps of Maxime Delavoie, a fictional Parisian from 1789. The journey involves solving riddles, discovering secret passages, and interacting with emblematic characters from the era, making history come alive in a fun and interactive manner. While the activity is accessible for groups of 4 to 5 people and features a handbook with an old map, it is important to bring your own pen for the game.

This tour stands out because it combines historical storytelling with interactive gameplay, offering an original way to learn about one of France’s most significant turning points, although it is conducted in French only. The 4.5-star rated provider, Cultival, ensures a well-organized experience, though participants should be aware that the tour may be postponed in case of bad weather.

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Key Points

• Price: $19 per person, offering a budget-friendly way to explore Paris history.
• Duration: Around 2 hours, making it a manageable activity for a half-day outing.
• Language: Game in French only, suitable for French speakers or learners comfortable with the language.
• Meeting Point: At Jardin de l’Arsenal, near the Port of Arsenal in front of Le Grand Bleu restaurant.
• Suitable for: Participants aged 12 and over; not recommended for children under 12.
• Group Size: Teams of 4 or 5 people depending on group size, with a facilitator guiding the activity.

Starting at Jardin de l’Arsenal to Step Back in Time

The adventure begins at the Jardin de l’Arsenal, located on the Port of Arsenal, under a weeping willow, right in front of Le Grand Bleu restaurant. This meeting point provides easy access via Subway Bastille, Exit 4. From here, the game transports participants back to 14th July 1789, the dawn of the French Revolution.

Once assembled, a facilitator provides instructions and hands out the handbook, which includes an old map and essential information. The activity then involves guiding Maxime Delavoie through Paris streets, which may include secret passages tied to the phantoms of Bastille prison. Throughout the journey, players encounter artisans, laborers, rioters, soldiers, and looters—some of whom may assist or hinder the mission.

The focus on solving riddles and navigating historical locations keeps the engagement lively and educational. The outdoor setting makes it necessary to wear comfortable shoes, especially since the game involves walking along various passages and streets.

What Makes the Treasure Hunt Unique

Unlike traditional guided tours, this experience brings history to life through interactive storytelling and puzzle-solving. Participants follow the steps of Maxime along the famous streets of Paris, experiencing the fall of Bastille from a close-up perspective. The use of a historical map and encounters with symbolic characters make the narrative more vivid.

The game’s design emphasizes teamwork and critical thinking, as players must solve riddles to progress. The activity also offers a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in French history, making it suitable for those who enjoy history, adventure, and challenges.

Because the game is conducted only in French, it is best suited for French-speaking groups or those with a good command of the language. The tour’s moderate pace and outdoor setting mean that it is accessible to most physically capable participants, though bad weather can lead to postponements.

Navigating the Historic Streets of Paris

Throughout the two-hour adventure, you will explore key areas near the Fossé Saint-Antoine and the Port of Arsenal. The tour involves following clues and solving puzzles that reveal the story behind the storming of the Bastille and its aftermath.

Players will encounter emblematic characters from the era, some of whom may aid in the escape, while others might be obstacles. The secret passages and phantom references to the prison’s remains add an element of intrigue and mystery.

The handbook and old map serve as essential tools for navigation, helping players piece together the sequence of events and uncover the secrets of the prison’s fall. The experience is designed to educate as well as entertain, providing factual insights about this defining moment in French history.

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Practical Details: Booking, Cancellation, and Accessibility

This activity offers flexibility with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later. The meeting point‘s central location makes it convenient for visitors to access via public transportation.

While the activity is wheelchair accessible, participants should note that bad weather may lead to postponements, so checking the forecast is advisable. The need to bring a pen is essential, as it is not included in the package.

The experience is recommended for children aged 12 and over, ensuring that participants are mature enough to follow the riddles and historical context. Groups are kept small to ensure an engaging and manageable game environment.

Comparing This Tour with Other Paris Experiences

While this treasure hunt focuses on the French Revolution, similar experiences include seine cruises, visits to Invalides, or mystery games at Palais Garnier. However, none combine the historical storytelling, interactive puzzle-solving, and outdoor exploration in quite the same way as this Bastille-themed adventure.

The 4.5-star rating from Cultival indicates a well-organized activity, praised for its unique approach to history and engaging gameplay. Its affordable price point makes it an attractive option for families, student groups, or anyone interested in a different perspective on Paris landmarks.

Is the Treasure Hunt Right for You?

This tour is ideal for French-speaking groups interested in history and story-driven activities. The 2-hour duration makes it manageable without taking up an entire day. It offers a fun and educational way to experience an important event in France’s past, especially for those who enjoy puzzles and interactive storytelling.

The activity’s outdoor nature encourages walking and exploring, so participants should be prepared for some physical activity. Since bad weather could cause delays, checking the forecast ahead of time is recommended. The focus on teamwork and problem-solving makes it a lively experience, but it requires some comfort with French.

This Treasure Hunt: The prisoner of the Bastille delivers an original, history-focused adventure that transforms Paris streets into a stage for revolutionary storytelling. It offers a value-packed way to connect with French heritage, especially for those eager to combine learning and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, it is recommended for children aged 12 and over due to the language and puzzle complexity.

Do I need to bring anything?
Participants should bring their own pen, as it is not included in the package.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance or reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

Is the activity accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though outdoor conditions and weather may affect the experience.

What language is the game in?
The entire game is conducted in French, making it best suited for French speakers or those comfortable with the language.

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