Nantes: Outdoor Escape Game – Le défi de Jules Verne

Planning a trip to Nantes and looking for something a little different? If you’re intrigued by the idea of exploring the city through puzzles and storytelling, this outdoor escape game might catch your eye. Based on what we’ve seen, it’s a fun way to see some of Nantes’s streets and landmarks, especially if puzzle-solving appeals to you.

We like that it combines city discovery with interactive challenges, and that it’s themed around Jules Verne — a fitting nod given Nantes’s connection to the famed author. The story about fixing a spatio-temporal rift and sending Jules Verne back to his own time adds a playful layer to your walk. Plus, the game is designed to be accessible for groups, and the price is quite reasonable for a two-hour adventure.

However, there’s a caveat. The reviews suggest that not everyone finds the puzzles challenging or engaging, and some have been frustrated by technical or organizational issues. So, if you’re expecting a polished, puzzle-intensive experience, this might not fully hit the mark. Still, if you’re after a light-hearted, city-centered activity with a bit of storytelling, it’s worth considering.

This escape game seems best suited for curious travelers who enjoy casual exploration and don’t mind the occasional rough edge. Families with older children (12+) could also find it fun, especially if they’re fans of Jules Verne or outdoor adventures.

Key Points

• Unique way to explore Nantes: Combines city sights with puzzles and story.
• Thematic storytelling: Jules Verne’s adventure adds fun context.
• Cost-effective: At $28 for up to 2 players, it’s an accessible activity.
• Mixed reviews: Some players find puzzles too easy or frustrating.
• Good for casual explorers: Less about intense puzzle-solving, more about enjoying the walk.
• Language options: Available in both French and English.
• Group size: Designed for private groups, suitable for friends and family.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Jules Verne Escape Game

This activity kicks off outside the Ateliers et Chantiers de Nantes, where your group will meet your game master. The goal? Help Jules Verne return to his own time by solving puzzles scattered throughout Nantes, particularly around the Île de Nantes.

The game lasts roughly two hours, giving you a chance to stroll through parts of the city while engaging in interactive riddles. Throughout the adventure, clues are hidden in the streets, and your team will need to use observation and logic to piece together the story. The game master is available to guide you, which is especially helpful if you get stuck or want some context about the locations.

The storyline revolves around Jules Verne’s fictional time-travel mishap. Your challenge is to find clues and unravel puzzles that are woven into Nantes’s landmarks, making the city itself part of the adventure. Be prepared for some physical activity, as clues are often outdoors, and you’ll need to follow the story across different spots.

The Itinerary and How the Experience Unfolds

The starting point is outside “Les Ateliers et Chantiers,” a notable spot in Nantes. Once you gather your team, the game master explains the scenario and hands you your mission: get Jules Verne back to his era by solving riddles. The game is themed around his adventurous spirit, with puzzles designed specifically for Nantes’s environment.

As you explore, you’ll encounter various clues that require keen observation. Some reviews mention that the puzzles are “silly” or overly simple, which might be a letdown if you’re expecting a challenge. Others have appreciated how the activity encourages attentiveness to surroundings — “the game obliges to be attentive and observant,” as one reviewer noted.

Clues are embedded throughout the city’s streets and cultural spots, with some hidden in areas under construction or temporarily inaccessible, which can be a drawback. The game also includes references to books and words that need searching, adding an academic touch. However, some players found the clues lacking in depth, describing the puzzles as “not very challenging.”

The journey also offers glimpses of Nantes’s vibe, especially around Île de Nantes, a lively area filled with modern architecture and artistic installations. This makes the walk quite scenic, even if some clues are underwhelming.

The Pros and Cons as Seen by Players

One of the biggest positives mentioned is how the game helps you “look at your environment” differently. Christine from France appreciated this aspect, saying, “it’s really good for learning to watch your surroundings.” The physical exploration and story element make it a casual but engaging activity, especially for those wanting a different way to see Nantes.

On the downside, the reviews reveal some disappointments. Several participants felt the puzzles were too easy or repetitive. One traveler from Belgium commented, “The site is interesting, but apart from the books in which words need to be searched, there is no real connection to Jules Verne, and the puzzles are silly.” Others expressed frustration with logistical issues: inaccessible clues, lack of responses from the game support, or that the clues were placed in areas under construction, which impacted the experience negatively.

The value for money is another point of contention. At $28 per group (up to two players), some feel it’s a bit pricey considering the simplicity of the puzzles. One reviewer even mentioned it felt more like a chatbot conversation than a fully-developed game, with “the same conversation everyone gets, just different images as clues.”

The Practicalities

Timing-wise, you’ll spend about two hours on the activity, which fits nicely into a day of sightseeing. The meeting point is outdoors, so dress comfortably and be prepared for outdoor weather. Bring a charged smartphone — essential for puzzles and navigation. The activity is available in both French and English, making it accessible for most travelers.

Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to plan how to get to Les Ateliers et Chantiers. The activity is for private groups, so it’s a good choice if you prefer a personalized experience without strangers. And with free cancellation up to 24 hours before, you’ve got some flexibility if your plans change.

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Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re after a leisurely, story-driven activity that makes you pay attention to your surroundings, this game could be a fun addition to your Nantes itinerary. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with older children or teenagers (12+), who can follow the story and solve puzzles together.

However, don’t expect a highly challenging or deeply immersive puzzle experience. Several reviews mention that puzzles are quite straightforward, and some participants felt the activity was overhyped or underorganized. If you’re a puzzle aficionado or seeking a highly polished game, you might find this a little underwhelming.

On the plus side, it’s a reasonably priced way to see a different side of Nantes, blending city sights with a bit of storytelling and teamwork. Just go in with realistic expectations about the puzzle complexity and potential logistical hiccups.

Final Thoughts

This outdoor escape game offers a casual and playful way to explore Nantes, especially for those interested in Jules Verne or outdoor activities. It’s best suited for curious travelers who enjoy a storytelling angle and don’t mind some simplicity in puzzles. The scenic route around Île de Nantes adds a visual treat, even if some clues are underwhelming or in construction zones.

While the experience isn’t perfect — some puzzles are too easy and organizational issues have been reported — it’s an affordable and different way to spend a couple of hours. Just keep your expectations in check, bring a charged phone, and enjoy the fresh air and city views.

If you want a relaxed, story-based activity that encourages observation over challenge, this could be an enjoyable addition to your Nantes trip. But if puzzle-solving or flawless execution is your priority, you might want to explore alternative experiences.

FAQs

Is the activity suitable for children?
Yes, it’s recommended for ages 12 and above. Older kids and teens who enjoy stories and outdoor activities will likely have fun.

How long does the game last?
The activity takes about two hours, making it a manageable stop during a day of sightseeing.

Do I need to know French?
The experience is offered in both French and English, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

What should I bring?
A charged smartphone is essential for clues and navigation. Dress comfortably for outdoor walking.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
No, transportation is not included. You’re responsible for getting to Les Ateliers et Chantiers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund.

Is the activity worth the price?
At $28 for up to two players, it’s fairly affordable. However, considering puzzle simplicity and some logistical issues reported, it offers more of a casual, fun experience than a challenging or deeply engaging escape adventure.

In the end, this escape game is a lighthearted way to see parts of Nantes through a storyteller’s lens. It’s perfect if you’re curious, enjoy a walk with a bit of puzzle-solving, and are okay with some inconsistencies. For a more intense or polished puzzle experience, you might want to look elsewhere, but for a relaxed, city-themed outing, it’s worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: