He lives in the central street of the Nefs. When the majestic animal goes out for its walk, it is like architecture in motion departing from a steel cathedral. The 49 passengers on board embark on an amazing journey on the Ile de Nantes. Each time the pachyderm goes out, it is a unique spectacle for everyone to enjoy.
When this majestic beast emerges from its steel cathedral, it is a moving piece of architecture that sets off for a walk. The passengers on board can see what makes the engine and moving feet tick. A machinist will welcome you on board, tell you about its life and set off its trumpeting. As part of the crew, this is an invite for timeless travel in the town of Jules Verne.
February and March 2025
Due to works on the esplanade in front of the nave, the Grand Eléphant service will be modified from Saturday 08/02 to Friday 21/03.
During this period, the Grand Eléphant will only operate on weekends (with changes to boarding points).
On weekdays, a mediation service will be provided on board the Grand Eléphant at the Nave quay.
Nantes is transforming
Nantes is changing to become an even more ecological, inclusive, and dynamic city. To do this, new public works will reinforce our already existing ecofriendly modes of transport: new tram lines, green zones for pedestrians and cyclists, and more. From 2024, these major urban projects will disrupt traffic around Les Machines de l’Île and Parc des Chantiers, with the Pont Anne-de-Bretagne bridge closed off to cars (the bridge will remain accessible to pedestrians and cyclists). Solutions will be offered throughout construction to make it easier for everyone to get around, like: increased frequency of several public transport lines, more Naolib bike-share bicycles, and more parking spots in park-and-ride lots.
For further informationSee also
Les Machines de l'Île, Boulevard Léon Bureau, Nantes
How to get there?
Parking(s) nearby: Parking Les Machines, Parking Les Nefs, Parking Chantiers Navals
Public transport: Prairie au Duc, Gare de l'État, Chantiers Navals
Self-service bicycles: Machine De L'île (n°43), Palais De Justice (n°44), Grue Jaune (n°103), Brunelière (n°41), Prairie Au Duc (n°45)
Click here for detailed schedules
Les Machines de l’île reserves the right to cancel the Grand Éléphant Tour in case of bad weather, storm or technical necessity.
Annual closure in January.
Book
Full price: 9,50 € - Reduced price: 7,50 € (Disabled persons / 4-17 years old, students, job seekers with proof of the current year)
Free access for children under 4 years old and adults accompanying people with disabilities.
Each ticket gives access to the workshop terraces, the film and the Heron Tree prototype Branch.
Located under the prototype Branch of the Heron Tree, the bookstore and gift shop presents a wide range of unique and original objects, drawings and works, inspired by the Machines de l’île.
Contact: +33 (0)2 51 17 48 87
Gift shop Machines de l’île