When visiting Nantes, France, you’ll not only admire the ancient architecture or savor the unique cuisine, but also have the chance to step into a creative science fiction world at Les Machines de L’ile. This place showcases colossal machines, meticulously crafted in every detail, promising a one-of-a-kind travel experience, completely different from typical destinations. Are you ready to explore this “City of Amazing Machines”?
Explore Les Machines de L’ile – A Mechanical Marvel in Nantes
Les Machines de L’ile, located at 2 boulevard Léon-Bureau, 44200 Nantes, is a unique artistic project transforming urban space into a mesmerizing mechanical performance stage. It’s not just a tourist attraction, but a journey to discover the boundless creativity of humanity.
Getting to Les Machines de L’ile
Public transportation in France is highly developed, making it very convenient to get to Les Machines de L’ile. You can easily reach it by tram, getting off at the Chantiers Navals stop, and then walking across the Pont Anne de Bretagne bridge to arrive. Public transport not only saves you money but also contributes to environmental protection.
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices
To have a complete visit, you should note the opening hours and ticket prices of Les Machines de L’ile:
| Time Period | Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| July, August | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Mid-February – June | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Closed Mondays |
| September, October | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Closed Mondays |
| Christmas | 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Remaining Time | Contact for exact hours |
| Early Jan – Mid-Feb | Closed |
| 01/01, 01/05, 25/12 | Closed |
Ticket prices including the elephant ride are €17. Additionally, you can experience the Le Carrousel des Mondes Marines carousel for €8.5 for the first ride and €3 for each subsequent ride. Detailed information on visiting hours and ticket prices is always updated on the official Les Machines de L’ile website.
Marvel at the Giant Machines
Les Machines de L’ile is essentially a unique art project, where giant machines inspired by the animal world and the rich imaginations of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci are brought to life. You will be amazed to witness machines that seem to exist only in science fiction films moving and operating vividly.
Display area of Les Machines de l'Île's creations
A highlight of Les Machines de L’ile is the Grand Éléphant, a colossal elephant made entirely of steel and wood. Standing 12 meters tall and weighing 48 tons, the Grand Éléphant is not just a machine, but also a magnificent work of art.
Ride the Elephant and Explore the Dockyards
A ride on the back of the Grand Éléphant is an unmissable experience. With a limited number of 50 passengers per trip, you’ll have the opportunity to admire panoramic views of the old dockyards from above. However, the elephant’s operating schedule depends on weather conditions, so you should contact the guides in advance for more details.
The Grand Elephant, the most famous machine of Les Machines de l'Île
To create the Grand Éléphant, 48.4 tons of steel and wood, 2,500 liters of hydraulic oil, and 6 tires were used. The elephant’s moving speed is only 1 to 3 km/h, slow enough for you to leisurely admire the surrounding scenery.
Discover the Interior of the Grand Éléphant
The space inside the elephant’s body is meticulously designed with a living room, windows, French-style balconies, and a terrace. To reach the terrace, you will have to go up a small staircase. The sophistication in interior design further enhances the uniqueness and impressiveness of the Grand Éléphant.
Other Amazing Machines
In addition to the Grand Éléphant, Les Machines de L’ile also displays many other unique machines, modeled after animals such as spiders, herons, and plants.
A giant mechanical spider with extremely long legs
These machines are not only eye-catching but also capable of moving flexibly, creating a lively and colorful mechanical world.
Les Machines de l'Île machines – Giant bird
A giant wooden and steel caterpillar
Nantes – A Must-Visit Destination for Creativity Lovers
Les Machines de L’ile is a must-visit destination for those who love science fiction and are passionate about unique works of art. Coming to Nantes, you will not only admire giant machines but also experience an inspiring creative space, something you can hardly find anywhere else.
If you are planning a trip to France, don’t forget to visit Nantes and explore Les Machines de L’ile. This will surely be a memorable experience in your European adventure.