Machines of the Isle (Les Machines de L'ile)
Parc des Chantiers, Blvd. Léon Bureau, Nantes, Pays de la Loire
Whether you’re climbing aboard a life-size mechanical elephant, riding on a carousel of fantastical sea creatures, or operating a flying machine, a visit to Les Machines de L'île is probably unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Inspired by the creations of novelist Jules Verne, Nantes’ flagship attraction is fun for all ages.
Les Machines de L'île is an artistic park comprising four main attractions: the Grand Elephant, a huge robotic elephant that walks across the island; the 3-story-high Carrousel des Mondes Marins; the Galerie des Machines, which displays machines in various stages of design; and the workshop terraces, where you can look down over the workshops of La Machine, the company that designs the machines.
Zip around the Île de Nantes on a walking, cycling, or Segway tour, most of which time their arrival at the park to watch the elephant lumbering across the main plaza. Watch out, as it often squirts water at passersby!
Single or combination tickets are available for the elephant, carousel, and gallery. All ticket holders can access the workshop terraces.
Elephant tours take around 30 minutes; carousel and gallery tours are about an hour each.
There’s a café, gift shop, and paid parking garage on-site.
No large bags, rucksacks, or suitcases are allowed at any of the attractions.
All attractions are accessible to wheelchairs. Book your space in advance.
Les Machines de L'île is located on the Île de Nantes, in central Nantes. To arrive by public transit, ride the tram (Line 1) to Chantiers Navals station, then cross the Anne-de-Bretagne bridge. At the south end of the bridge are the ticket office, gallery, workshops, and departure point for the elephant. The carousel is a short walk west.
Each attraction has different opening times, which vary throughout the year. Check the schedule online before going. Lines are long in July and August and during school holidays, so consider booking tickets in advance.
Les Machines de L'île is the brainchild of François Delaroziere and Pierre Orefice, whose company, La Machine, designed mechanical sets for the theater. Inspired by the ideas of Leonardo da Vinci and Nantes-born novelist Jules Verne, the directors envisioned bringing creations to life as a unique tourist attraction. Centerpiece of a citywide urban renewal project, Les Machines de L'île opened in 2007, taking over former shipyards and warehouses. The inventions and innovations continue today.
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