VIDEO CNN Correspondent Peter Humi tests his sense of direction in the maze. Windows Media 28K 80K

August 10, 1999
Web posted at: 12:50 p.m. EDT (1650 GMT)

TOURS, France (CNN) -- Spread over more than 45 acres (18 hectares) of the Loire Valley, about 18 miles (30 kilometers) from the town of Tours, is one of the largest mazes in the world. Visitors craving a challenge have been flocking there to navigate five miles (eight kilometers) of winding pathways through the corn stalks. Besides the size, what makes this labyrinth special are the surprises that spring out along the way.

The creators hired actors to play ancient Egyptian deities, who pop out around different corners. They explain who they are, and they help -- or sometimes hinder -- those looking for a way out.

Organizers say the maze takes one-and-a-half to four hours to get through, depending on whether you take an illegal shortcut or sneak a peek at the map. The maze is open to the public until the end of the month, when the harvest begins. But if you've missed it this year, don't worry. Organizers say they'll create an even bigger one next year.

CNN Correspondent Peter Humi contributed to this report.

Weather: Paris
City Profiles: Paris
World Maps and Guides: France
Currency Converter

Note: Pages will open in a new browser window

External sites are not endorsed by CNN Interactive.