Annecy: Escape game outdoor – the shadow of the sword

Exploring Annecy with the Outdoor Escape Game: The Shadow of the Sword

If you’re considering a way to explore Annecy beyond just wandering around with a guidebook, this outdoor escape game offers a fresh twist. Marketed as an adventure that combines discovering the city’s beauty with solving riddles, it promises a playful way to soak up Annecy’s sights and stories. We’ve looked into what this experience offers and how it might fit into your trip plans.

What immediately catches our eye are the stunning views you get to enjoy while unraveling clues, and the chance to learn about Annecy’s past in a playful way. Plus, the price is quite accessible at just $22 per group for up to four players, making it an affordable option for families, couples, or small groups. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the puzzles are on the simpler side and that geolocation bugs might cause some frustration. This experience? It’s best suited for those seeking light-hearted fun and scenic exploration rather than intense puzzle-solving.

If you love wandering through historic towns, enjoy interactive experiences, and don’t mind a few technical hiccups, this could be a highlight of your stay. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with a small group that enjoys a mix of sightseeing and adventure. Just keep in mind that it’s not aimed at children under 12 or travelers with mobility issues.

Key Points

• Unique Scenario in Annecy: A story-driven adventure set in the city’s historic backdrop.
• Self-guided Outdoor Experience: Explore at your own pace using your smartphone without downloading additional apps.
• Engages with Annecy’s Heritage: Discover monuments like Château d’Annecy, Palais de l’Île, and Annecy Cathedral while solving puzzles.
• Scenic Views & Secret Passages: Expect plenty of picturesque vistas and hidden routes.
• Historical and Cultural Insights: Learn about Annecy’s past, including the tale of a dangerous sword.
• Affordable & Flexible: Cost-effective and allowing breaks, perfect for casual visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

For those of us who enjoy combining sightseeing with a bit of fun, this outdoor escape game seems like a clever way to see Annecy differently. Starting at Quai de la Tournette / Quai Bayreuth, the adventure guides you through the old town’s most iconic sites, with a storyline that ties everything together. The plot revolves around a sword with evil powers, hidden across centuries, which adds a layer of mystery and engagement.

The game is designed to last roughly two hours, but you’re free to take your time. That flexibility is great because it means you can pause and resume when needed, perhaps fitting it around meals or other activities. The course includes stops at notable landmarks like Château d’Annecy, the Palais de l’Île, La Porte Sainte Claire, and the Annecy Cathedral, along with several secret stops that promise surprises along the way.

What makes this experience attractive? First, the scenic views are genuinely lovely. As you walk from one monument to another, you’ll probably find yourself stopping to admire the charming streets, the canal, and the old town’s medieval architecture. The inclusion of secret passages and puzzles adds an element of adventure that feels more engaging than just a normal walk. And since the puzzles are based on your smartphone sensors, it feels interactive and modern.

However, some reviews point out that the puzzles aren’t particularly complex. Edouard mentions, “they aren’t as sophisticated as expected,” and that animations sometimes malfunctioned. If you’re looking for a challenging escape room-style experience, this might fall a little short. But if you’re after a relaxed, story-rich exploration, it still offers plenty of entertainment.

The price tag — $22 for a group of up to four — makes this an affordable outing. For that fee, you’re getting a guided, scenic walk combined with interactive puzzles and cultural insights. It’s a good value if you’re traveling on a budget or want a flexible activity that blends sightseeing with some light-hearted puzzle solving.

The Itinerary: What Will You Encounter?

The tour kicks off at 6 Quai de la Tournette, where you’ll receive your access link via email and SMS — no need for additional apps. From there, the route leads you through the heart of Annecy’s old town, with several stops and secret passages that keep the experience lively.

• Stop 1: The adventure begins here, setting the scene for the story about the evil sword.
• Stop 2: A quick sightseeing stop with scenic views—expect to pause and take in Annecy’s beauty.
• Stop 3: Château d’Annecy — an impressive fortress with panoramic views, perfect for photos and a sense of history.
• Stops 4-7: Secret stops along the way, designed to keep the story unfolding and surprise you with hidden details.
• Stop 8: La Porte Sainte Claire, another historic gate with scenic surroundings.
• Stop 9: The Annecy Cathedral, where you might learn a bit about the city’s religious heritage.
• Stops 10-13: Additional secret stops, each with a puzzle and some scenic or historic insight.
• Final Stop: The Mairie, bringing the adventure full circle back at the starting point.

Throughout, you will encounter challenges that require observation, reflection, and puzzle-solving, often tied to the historical figures and artifacts you pass. The storyline involves tracking the whereabouts of the cursed sword across centuries, making you feel like a detective in Annecy’s past.

What Do Participants Say?

Reviewers’ feedback paints a mostly positive picture with some helpful insights. Prisca appreciated the good explanations of the city’s history, though she noted that geolocation bugs can sometimes interfere with navigation. She said, “Good explanations of the city and its history. The route goes round in circles, and the geolocation map bugs in close-up.” This suggests that while the experience is enjoyable, tech hiccups could slightly detract from the flow.

Edouard found the story enjoyable but mentioned the puzzles aren’t very demanding: “there aren’t many puzzles, and they aren’t as sophisticated as expected,” plus some animations didn’t work reliably. That said, the game’s narrative adds a fun layer, especially if you enjoy a bit of storytelling woven into your sightseeing.

Practical Details & Tips

• Duration: About 2 hours, with the flexibility to pause and resume.
• Price: $22 per group, making it accessible for small groups or families.
• Group Size: Up to 4 players per booking.
• Start & End Point: Both at Quai de la Tournette / Quai Bayreuth.
• Languages: Available in French and English.
• What to Bring: Your fully charged smartphone with data plan.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 12 or travelers with mobility issues.
• Cancellation: Full refunds available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

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Is It Worth It?

This experience offers a fun, visual way to explore Annecy’s highlights while engaging with its history through puzzles and stories. It’s not a hardcore puzzle adventure, but rather a relaxed, scenic activity that’s perfect if you enjoy walking, discovering new spots, and playing a story game. The value for money is good, especially considering the scenic stops and the story-driven approach.

It’s particularly suitable for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting a flexible activity that combines sightseeing with some interactive fun. Keep in mind that tech issues have been reported, so patience might be needed if geolocation bugs occur.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a casual yet engaging way to discover Annecy, this outdoor escape game could be just the thing. It’s a delightful mix of scenic views, light puzzles, and storytelling set against the backdrop of a city known for its beauty and charm. The storyline about a cursed sword adds a playful mystery that keeps you curious as you move from site to site.

While the puzzles may not challenge seasoned escape room fans, the story and scenery make up for it. It’s a laid-back experience that’s particularly enjoyable if you prefer wandering at your own pace or want a bit of playful history thrown into your sightseeing.

For travelers who appreciate stories woven into their travel adventures and enjoy a relaxed exploration, this game offers an authentic and charming way to spend a couple of hours in Annecy. Just be prepared for some minor tech glitches and keep your expectations aligned with the light-hearted nature of the activity.

FAQ

Do I need to download an app to play?
No, you don’t need to download any app. After purchasing, you’ll receive an access link via email and SMS to launch the game directly on your smartphone.

How long does the activity last?
The activity is designed to take about 2 hours. However, you’re free to pause and restart as needed, making it flexible for your schedule.

Can I play with fewer or more than 4 people?
The experience is priced for groups up to 4 players. If you have more than four people, you might consider splitting into smaller teams and sharing devices.

Is it suitable for children?
Not for children under 12, as the puzzles and storyline are aimed at older participants. Also, it’s not accessible for travelers with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Just a fully charged smartphone with a data plan. Having a portable charger can be helpful if you plan to play for a long time.

Is there a guide or host present?
No, it’s a self-guided experience. You’re exploring independently, guided by the GPS and the storyline.

Can I do this activity in bad weather?
Yes, since it’s outdoors, but heavy rain might impact your experience. Check the weather forecast and consider bringing appropriate clothing.

What if I get lost or have technical issues?
Support is available by phone if needed, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you encounter problems. The route is designed to be straightforward, but bugs can happen.

If you’re up for a relaxed, scenic puzzle adventure that mixes storytelling with some of Annecy’s loveliest sights, this outdoor escape game could be a charming addition to your trip. Keep your expectations aligned with the level of challenge, and you’re likely to enjoy a memorable, fun-filled couple of hours exploring France’s beautiful lake city.

You can check availability for your dates here: