6 mystery and detective games for a new angle on Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Fancy spicing up your stay in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur with a touch of mystery and adventure? Discover six novel experiences inviting you to enjoy a new angle on the region. Captivating investigations in stunning scenery, secrets tucked away in hilltop villages and disturbing mysteries to solve while you dip your feet in translucent waters… Each destination promises its own fun, unique and educational immersion. Fancy yourself as a detective? Then get ready for some unforgettable adventures that transform your excursions into genuine investigations!

Enigmas in the Nice hinterland

The hilltop villages of the Préalpes d’Azur area are a mystery unto themselves… These little citadels, boasting exceptional panoramic vistas, are also the theatre for a series of surprising detective games concocted by Mademoiselle C, the founder of “1,2,3, CAT”. The Grand Parcours des Baous – a hiking trail crossing the Nice hinterland -, is the venue for 9 clue hunts set in Vence, Tourrettes-sur-Loup, Coursegoules, Bouyon, Gilette, Le Broc, Carros, Gattières and Saint-Jeannet. With the help of your little game kit, “Viz’it les Mystères des Baous”, discover the history and heritage of the various villages through the eyes of a detective and listen carefully to what the suspects have to say… These local actors, including shepherds, artisans, shopkeepers and officials, know the area like the back of their hand. In addition to the main game, Mademoiselle C also invites participants to discover the Nice area through a series of individual investigations set in the various villages: seek out a mysterious briefcase in the jazzy atmosphere of 1950s Antibes, find the secret recipe for a potion in Vence or set sail for a treasure hunt on Ile Marguerite, in the footsteps of “The Man in the Iron Mask”.

Intrigues in the towns of Vaucluse

Here’s a cultural tour your children will definitely want to take part in! The “Intrigue dans la ville®” investigations lead families on an exciting exploration of the town centres and historic sights of Vaucluse, as you attempt to solve a variety of fun and educational mysteries. Roam the Popes’ Palace in Avignon to find traces of the papal artefact robber, unmask the leader of the salt trafficking ring in Mornas, track down the saboteur of the wool factory waterwheel in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, discover who is stealing “black gold” from Carpentras market, or question the regulars at Monteux lake to unveil the site’s secrets. To start your investigation, head to the Tourist Office of the town you’d like to explore, pick up a kit and off you go! Depending on the mystery, the town and your pace, the games can last from 1½ to 3½ hours. The ideal activity in summer and winter alike!

Strange disappearances on Ile d’Or island

One of the Var area’s most iconic islands, the Ile d’Or inspired Hergé’s Tintin adventure titled “The Black Island”. But this time, you’re the one leading the investigation! Two captivating detective games await you: a not-so-perfect crime to solve courtesy of “Randeau83”, and a cold case to unravel, courtesy of “Esterel Aventures”. Both adventures begin at the charming little port of Poussai, where you can pick up your game kit before heading out to solve the riddles amid breathtaking scenery. On your way, you will cross such iconic locations as Plage du Débarquement (the Allied Landings beach) and the Sémaphore (signal station), topped with enchanting views over Saint-Raphaël. Each clue brings you a little closer to solving the enigma, while immersing you in the region’s history and mysteries. Whether you’re a budding detective or simple curiosity seeker, the investigations promise a delightful stroll around Cape Dramont. Ready to take up the gauntlet and unlock the secrets of the Ile d’Or?

Hidden treasures around Etang de Berre

A vast lagoon basking in Provence, Etang de Berre overflows with little-known treasures to explore. In partnership with “My Explore Bag”, the towns of Martigues, Miramas, Istres and Salon-de-Provence transform your wanderings into a genuine treasure hunt. The concept is simple: pick up your kit – a fun , interactive app – and you’re ready to solve the clues while exploring magnificent sites. Let the canals and charming little bridges of Martigues guide you to the town’s hidden history, or roam the hills and natural landscapes of Miramas with their breathtaking vistas. Istres awaits with an alluring blend of heritage and preserved natural treasures, while Salon-de-Provence, lined with old lanes and monuments, promises a plunge into a typical southern French ambience. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends or alone, these fun detective games combining discovery and amusement are an original way to get to know Etang de Berre while learning some surprising anecdotes about the region. Grab your kit, the investigation is about to begin!

Clue hunting in Queyras and Guillestrois

The Guillestrois and Queyras Tourist Office in the Hautes-Alpes hosts two life-size detective games allowing you to learn all about the area while having lots of fun: one around Molines-en-Queyras and the other in Guillestre. Put your detective hat on and head out to track down Maître Vasserot’s lost feather! The story takes place in 1698: a mischievous pupil has stolen one of the precious feathers from their teacher’s hat, symbolizing their talent for reading, mathematics and Latin. But don’t panic, they left some clues behind them… Using the booklet filled with riddles and notes, explore the majestic scenery of Queyras, discover the architecture of the high-altitude chalets and lap up some local cultural anecdotes. And don’t forget to keep your strength up with some local specialities: blueberry tart, mountain cheese and, if you fancy, a delicious genepi tea. You can enjoy the adventure whatever the season, on foot, by bike or even with snowshoes in winter!

The mysteries of Esparron-de-Verdon lake

Dive into a thrilling adventure at the heart of Esparron-de-Verdon lake, where mystery combines with the wild beauty of a typical Provencal decor. Climb aboard a little boat, canoe or stand up paddleboard for a fun and unique exploration courtesy of “Verdon Mystères”, as you set out to find a series of markers hidden around the lake’s turquoise waters and steep banks. Each marker unveils a captivating clue; a little piece of the puzzle that leads you closer to the well-kept secret of this enchanting site. The experience is free if you rent your craft from the partner sailing club. And between two clues, take time to admire the limestone cliffs and wild coves and, if the fancy takes you, enjoy a refreshing dip. Whether you’re a budding Sherlock Holmes or simple nature lover, this quest promises plenty of forever memories to take back home. So, raise the anchor and set sail for the mysterious charm of Esparron-de-Verdon lake…