Mazes are among the most intriguing and difficult types of entertainment. They are made up of a network of pathways and hedges that constitute a puzzle that visitors must solve in order to reach the maze’s center. Mazes have grown in popularity all across the world over the years. Many nations now have their versions of the labyrinth, each providing tourists a unique and interesting experience. Here are some of the most incredible mazes from across the world.
Hampton Court Palace Maze, Surrey, United Kingdom
Hampton Court Maze, the oldest maze in the UK, is widely regarded as one of the most renowned mazes of all time. Planted in the late 17th century for William III, it has stood the test of time. It still captivates visitors to this day. Nestled within the majestic estate of Hampton Court, a striking red brick Tudor manor looms, renowned for its storied past as the residence of Henry VIII and his numerous wives. For over three centuries, the maze has confounded its visitors with perplexing pathways that span half a mile, leading them in circles and to dead ends. Despite their initial enthusiasm, many have fallen prey to its cunning design, as evidenced by the occasional breaches in the ancient hedges that mark the paths of lost tourists who sought to force their way to the center.
Lately, there has been a noticeable addition of eerie sound effects to intensify the overall experience and create a feeling of disorientation. The ambiance is enhanced with a blend of music, the laughter of children, and the gentle swishing of silk skirts, all echoing through the ancient yew hedges. Experience an extra dose of excitement by staying on the Hampton Court Motor Cruiser, conveniently docked on the River Thames, only minutes away from the famous maze.
Longleat Hedge Maze, Warminster, Wiltshire, England
Longleat is the world’s longest hedge labyrinth, covering approximately 1.7 miles and including 16,000 English yew trees, elevated bridges, and a white observation tower in the center. This massive labyrinth was constructed in 1757 amid an 8,000-acre historic park created by England’s most known landscape designer, Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown.
The house in the background is the grand home of Longleat, which was built in 1580 and is still owned by the same family that created it. Alexander Thynn, the current owner and 7th Marquess of Bath is known for being eccentric. He has built a Safari Park and various mazes for the estate, including the Lunar Labyrinth, the Love Labyrinth, King Arthur’s Maze, and the Sun Maze.
Dole Pineapple Garden Maze, Hawaii, USA
The Pineapple Labyrinth in Hawaii has gained two Guinness World Records for its size and is often regarded as the most elaborate maze in the world. The three-acre Pineapple Maze, so named because it is shaped like a pineapple and is located on a fruit farm, has two and a half miles of native plant-filled twists and turns.
Find your way to the center as soon as possible with the aroma of hibiscus floating through the air – those who accomplish the challenge swiftly will have their names posted at the entrance.
Villa Pisani Labyrinth, Stra, Italy
When travel websites refer to this as the most challenging maze in the world, they are not exaggerating! When Napoleon seized Italy, he acknowledged being lost in the labyrinth. Neither was bold enough to attempt when Hitler and Mussolini collaborated in WWII! However, if you get completely lost, a watchman at the central turret will accompany you and congratulate you when you eventually make it to the center tower, ascend the double spiral staircase, and meet Minerva.
Ashcombe Maze, Victoria, Australia
Australia’s Ashcombe maze is renowned for its stunning appearance, which demands frequent trimming throughout the year to preserve its pristine condition. It is widely considered one of the most high-maintenance mazes in the world. Comprising a vast expanse of more than a thousand Monterey cypress trees, these evergreen hedges are meticulously pruned to emulate the appearance of fluffy clouds. The process of trimming these verdant structures is a laborious one, lasting an entire month. A fascinating circular rose maze and a Lavender Labyrinth bloom within the grounds throughout the year. The latter boasts over 4,000 lavender plants that emit a delightful fragrance, enveloping visitors in a state of pure bliss.
Peace Maze, Castlewellan, Ireland
Northern Ireland’s Peace Maze, at 2.7 acres, is one of the world’s biggest permanent mazes. It also boasts one of the most interesting backstories, having been planted in 2000 to commemorate the signing of the Good Friday Agreement and the end of the region’s “Troubles.” The height of the hedges in the maze has been intentionally lowered to encourage interaction as people navigate through it. The labyrinth is divided into two sides, and topping it involves crossing both. Those who complete the course can ring the “Peace Bell” in the center.
Andrássy Castle, Tiszadob, Hungary
The hedge labyrinth at the Andrássy Castle is designed to mimic a squid. It is located along the Tisza River near the Hungarian-Slovakian border. The castle was built in the 19th century for Count Gyula Andrássy, complete with a boxwood maze surrounded by yew trees.
Maze of the Minotaur, Crete, Greece
The Maze of the Minotaur is a contemporary rendition of the renowned Greek myth on the island of Crete in Greece. The maze presents a challenge for visitors as they navigate through without getting lost or trapped by the Minotaur, a legendary creature believed to have resided in the maze’s center. The Maze of the Minotaur is a well-liked destination for history buffs and mythology enthusiasts.
Davis Mega Maze, Massachusetts, USA
View this post on Instagram
The spectacular cornfield maze has become one of Sterling’s most popular seasonal attractions. Adrian Fisher, a world-renowned labyrinth designer, created it. Every year, the theme of the one-of-a-kind gigantic labyrinth changes totally. Every year, the maze astounds visitors with new designs, such as a dinosaur, a king’s crown, and a city skyline. The maze also has Wi-Fi hotspots to help visitors navigate the maze using GPS devices.
Yancheng Dafeng Dream Maze, China
View this post on Instagram
The Yancheng Dafeng Dream Maze in China, which Guinness World Records named the world’s largest maze in 2018, contains one main maze and a number of side mazes to explore. An elk-shaped labyrinth with 10 separate rest breaks serves as the centerpiece of the exhibit. Other labyrinth types include circular, heart-shaped mazes with walkable glass structures.
Masone Labyrinth, Parma, Italy
View this post on Instagram
The world’s largest maze, the Masone Labyrinth, is located in an Italian town known for manufacturing Parmesan cheese. It’s also the result of a wager between Italian publisher Franco Maria Ricci and novelist Jorge Luis Borges, who stated it couldn’t be done after Ricci declared he intended to create the world’s largest maze. Borges said it couldn’t be done.
The star-shaped maze premiered in May 2015 and was built with 200,000 bamboo plants and spans 20 acres. Ricci, a septuagenarian, utilized fast-growing bamboo rather than more typical trees and plants so that he might see the maze finished before his death.
Richardson Corn Maze, Spring Grove, Illinois
View this post on Instagram
The world’s largest corn maze consists of four different “a-maize-ing” mazes set inside 28 acres of real corn. Every year, a new design is created to commemorate the state of Illinois’ bicentennial. The labyrinth is also a part of an adventure farm with rides, refreshments, and, of course, a gift store.
Mirror Maze, Vienna Austria (Schönbrunn Maze)
View this post on Instagram
The Mirror Maze in Vienna, Austria, is a one-of-a-kind maze featuring mirrors, lights, and music to create an unforgettable experience. The maze comprises a sequence of mirrored hallways that reflect the images of guests and disorient their perception of orientation. The Mirror Maze is a well-liked family attraction that offers both entertainment and educational value.