Family Treasure Hunts Across Edinburgh, Brussels and Florence

As Christmas comes to Europe, it’s the perfect time for literary-minded families to write their own festive stories. This year, embrace the magic of the written word on a snow-dusted adventure, exploring cobbled city streets and uncovering clues and treasures at every turn. Guided by favourite characters who have inspired generations, embark on a unique excursion with your little ones before returning home to one of our warm hotels to tell Yuletide tales, gathered around a crackling fire.

Sherlock’s Secret Challenge in Edinburgh

Edinburgh’s imposing grey sandstone architecture holds a city of many sides, rich in culture, art, and history. It is also the birthplace of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle whose most famous creation, Sherlock Holmes, has delighted readers for over a century.  It is fitting, therefore, that this particular treasure hunt has been inspired by the master of deduction himself. Starting just steps away from The Balmoral, at the appropriately named The Conan Doyle, families are invited to unravel a series of puzzles left by the author himself. Equipped with a backpack filled with everything you need, you’ll explore New Town, keeping an eye out for clues - be sure to pause in front of the Sherlock statue for inspiration. After a day of urban exploration, return to the hotel for a cosy afternoon tea at Palm Court beneath its sparkling glass dome​.

Tintin’s Belgian Quest in Brussels

At Hotel Amigo in Brussels, families are invited to join Tintin on an exciting adventure, retracing the steps of Belgium’s beloved comic book hero. Created by Hergé - the pen name of Brussels-born Georges Remi - Tintin has captured imaginations worldwide, and the city remains closely tied to his legacy. Start on Rue de l’Étuve to admire the famed Tintin fresco, before continuing to the Royal Palace, past the Magritte Museum, another famed Brussels’ son, to admire its many-pillared facade which inspired the palace in King Ottokar’s Sceptre. Return to Hotel Amigo where your one-of-a-kind Tintin Suite awaits, offering bespoke artwork, books, prints, bedlinen, and handmade décor by Tintinimaginatio, curated by Olga Polizzi. Young adventurers can take home keepsakes like a plush Snowy toy and a Tintin comic in their own language, while parents unwind with a cocktail in the surrealist dream, Bar Magritte.

A Percy Jackson Adventure in Florence

For a warmer retreat, Florence offers a Percy Jackson-themed scavenger hunt, perfect for fans of Rick Riordan’s series. Percy, a modern demi-god and son of Poseidon, navigates a world of ancient mythology - just like Florence, where Renaissance art and history are deeply rooted in tales of gods and heroes. Starting at Hotel Savoy, just steps from the majestic Duomo, families will journey through ancient streets, solving riddles that bring Greek mythology to life. As you explore, landmarks like the Uffizi Gallery and Piazza della Signoria reveal the myths woven into Florence’s history. As the winter sun sets, casting a golden glow over terracotta rooftops, the city’s timeless charm emerges. After your adventure, retreat to Irene at Hotel Savoy, where the authentic flavours of Tuscany offer a warm and inviting end to your mythical journey.

Set off on a family scavenger hunt with Rocco Forte Hotels this festive season.