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.
Nantes is transforming
Nantes has been getting a major makeover since 2024.
The city is currently undergoing extensive public works, particularly around Île de Nantes (Quai de la Fosse and the Pont Anne-de-Bretagne bridge). Tram Line 1 will be temporarily suspended from mid-June to late August 2026. The city centre and Parc des Chantiers – Machines de l’Île will remain accessible, thanks to replacement buses and to the pedestrian and cycling routes that will continue to be open. Park-and-ride facilities are available to drivers.
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
Public transport: Prairie au Duc, Gare de l'État, Chantiers Navals
Self-service bicycles: Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Machine de l'île (n°43), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Palais de justice (n°44), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Grue jaune (n°103), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Brunelière (n°41), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Prairie au duc (n°45)
Accueil Vélo – Cyclists Welcome certified
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.
Due to construction on the pont Anne-de-Bretagne bridge, the Machines de l’Île may sometimes need to adjust their opening hours at last minute. For your own convenience, please check the website for updates before your visit.
In the event of very high temperatures (+36°C / +96.8°F): For everyone’s comfort and safety, some sites are likely to temporarily close. Decisions to close venues will be taken at the last minute so as to keep them open as long as possible. We apologize for any inconvenience if the site is closed during your visit
Exceptional closure: from 2 November 2026 to 1 March 2027.
Book
Full price: 12€ - Reduced price: 10€ (Disabled persons / 4-17 years old, students, job seekers with proof of the current year) - 8€ children aged 4 to 12 years old.
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.
Le Voyage à Nantes strives for all members of the public to enjoy its temporary and permanent exhibitions. For Le Voyage à Nantes, offering accessibility is more than just a legal obligation, it’s a positive process that can bring everyone together.
As part of its universal accessibility policy, Les Machines de l’île offers specific measures and tools to ensure your visit is an excellent one.
For instance, for those with reduced mobility and those who tire easily, spaces are accessible by elevator, folding seats are available on loan, and more.
Contact: accessibilite@lesmachines-nantes.fr
Noise-cancelling headphones, braille, and large print booklets are available at ticket offices and aboard le grand elephant.
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