The Alice in Wonderland setting in Fantasyland continues with an attraction unique to Disneyland Paris, Alice's Curious Labyrinth. The park's designers wanted to include a walk-through maze for their European audience which would be fun and challenging, without being too difficult. Alice seemed a perfect fit.
You set out on your journey through Wonderland by following the White Rabbit into a walled garden. Suddenly, you're down the rabbit hole!
Entering the Tulgey Wood, signs aim to confuse visitors, sending you this way and that. Whichever way you choose, you're sure to encounter some of the charming characters from this part of Disney's 1951 animated film.
Next thing you know, you're caught up in a "jolly caucus race," following the hedge trail around and around in what feels like a never-ending series of circles, as the Dodo carries on in the center. Better keep running! You'll never get dry just standing around, you know! You'll never get on to the next part of the maze, either.
Whether the Caterpillar comes before or after the Caucus Race, I can't quite recall. Alice's Curious Labyrinth can do a number on your sense of place and direction! When you do encounter him, he's just as one might imagine - haughty and aloof and puffing away on his hooka, asking "Whooo R U?"
No matter which way you go in the maze, you're bound to run into the Cheshire Cat, whether along the "cat walk" or up in a tree. Careful following his direction, though. He's a sneaky one with that devilish grin.
Eventually, everyone finds themselves on the grounds of the Queen of Hearts' castle and at the entrance of yet another intricate maze. For those who've had enough at this point, there's an easy way out, but where's the fun in that?
The Queen's cards are busy painting the roses red, since they painted white roses by mistake. Step past them into the next maze, and it looks as though you're headed right for the castle. That couldn't be further from the truth. This portion of the labyrinth twists and turns and doubles back on itself so much, you think you'll never find the way out... and if you're not careful, you may run into the Queen herself, commanding her henchmen, "Off with their heads!"
With a little persistence, you'll finally make it to the Castle of the Queen (and the king... he's up there on the balcony).
The castle offers a bit of a reward for those who've come this far. Spiraling stairs lead to the upper levels, where a spectacular view of Fantasyland awaits.
Once you're done at the castle, it's an easy exit from Wonderland and back to Fantasyland to celebrate your Unbirthday (or just explore more of Disneyland Paris)!
TAND
Thursday, October 6, 2011
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