Les Trésors du Rhin treasure hunt, free fun!

My summary

Video summary

Several games in Alsace

Les Trésors du Rhin is a treasure hunt, or rather a series of tre asure hunts, which can be played at different locations in Alsace. As the name suggests, the idea is to discover the areas near the Rhine, while understanding how the infrastructure works (dams, EDF hydroelectric power stations, locks, fish passes, etc.).

The circuits on offer are varied: they come in different distances, and can be completed on foot or by bike, and their themes are equally diverse: geocaching, treasure hunts, nature or heritage… So you can choose according to your location and your desires, but you can also do several different routes in Alsace, because there’s no repetition! Each circuit has its own specificity, and adults and children alike will find what they’re looking for!

From south to north, a variety of games are on offer, with a cross-border dimension as you play leapfrog across the border, exploring both the French and German sides of the river! All the more fun as participation is totally free!

How to play?

Playing is easy: you can either play directly on the Rhine Treasures website, or download the app (available on iOS and Android). Personally, I’ve opted for the latter. You then need to create an account: it’s quick and allows you to take part in a prize draw with cool gifts (electric bikes, Croisi’Europe cruises…). Please note that although the games can be played all year round, the prizes are only available at certain times of the year (generally the high season).

Then you choose the route you want to take, and off you go! The app guides you to the various points of passage, with specific points where you must go to answer the questions asked.

I have to admit that it took me a while to get the hang of the app. It’s important to understand that some points are only recommended, while others are “compulsory”, since that’s where you’ll be answering the questions. There’s no GPS-style guidance between the points, but a map helps you get your bearings. In my opinion, guidance would be a plus, but the map, which shows the path to follow between two points, is already very helpful.

To answer the questions, remember to follow the instructions given (in general, only one lower-case word needs to be entered, unless otherwise stated in the question). Once validated, you’ll know whether you’ve got the right answer or not, and you’ll receive a short explanation text to help you learn more about the place you’re visiting. A correct answer earns you points, which in turn increase your chances of winning the prizes , which are drawn from all those who have completed a course. Motivating, isn’t it?

I tested the Strasbourg circuit!

For my part, I tested the Strasbourg and Kehl tour . Even though I know the city pretty well, it took me to some places I didn’t know!

The itinerary is fairly long, but gives you a really comprehensive tour of Strasbourg, during which you’ll discover the city’s different facets: Rhine port, European district, canals, Neustadt, Petite France, unusual places… I really enjoyed cycling around the city for half a day, guided by the app.

As a bonus, there are a few gourmet addresses where you can take a break: I couldn’t resist an ice cream at Toscani’s on the way!