Les Machines de l'île: reviews and practical tips

+18
recos
4.2/5 5 reviews
Parc des Chantiers Boulevard Léon-Bureau , 44200 Nantes, France
Parc des Chantiers Boulevard Léon-Bureau , 44200 Nantes, France
Machines de l'île de Nantes
L'éléphant de Nantes

Les Machines de l'île in a nutshell

Located on the site of the former shipyards in Nantes, Les Machines de l'île form an exhibition and performance space unlike anything else in France, drawing over 650,000 visitors every year. Supported by the Nantes metropolitan area as part of a massive urban renewal project, this tourist attraction was created by François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice. Upon its opening in 2007, it earned a Thea Award, often considered the Oscar of the theme park industry. Whether you are with family or friends, young or old, Les Machines de l'île pull you into a fantasy world inspired by the works of Jules Verne, Leonardo da Vinci, and the history of the City of the Dukes.

Start with the Galerie-laboratoire (Gallery-Laboratory). This is a living space where the mechanical bestiary is constantly in motion. You will learn the history and mechanics behind these strange creatures and can even try them out by hovering over the gallery on the back of a giant heron or climbing aboard the massive spider. If heights are not your thing, you can test a flight simulator instead. Continue your exploration of the retired shipyards aboard the Grand éléphant (Great Elephant), the famous wooden, leather, and metal pachyderm that put this site on the map. Standing 12 meters tall and weighing 48 tons, it holds 50 passengers for an incredibly unique ride. Keep an eye out as you walk by, as it trumpets and may even spray you with water from its trunk.

Easily spotted by its red roof, the Carrousel des mondes marins (Marine Worlds Carousel) is dedicated to sea mythology. An architectural feat, it stands 25 meters high and spans three levels. It is a fascinating experience, whether you choose a standard fairground ride for fun or a guided tour for a more educational look. Finally, do not miss the Terrasses de l'atelier (Workshop Terraces), where the machinists work to bring all sorts of creations to life. They are currently working on the Arbre au Héron (Heron Tree), a massive project with an estimated cost of 35 million EUR (about 38 million USD).

Opening hours

Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM during high season, and from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM the rest of the year.
Hours are indicative and subject to change

Reviews of Les Machines de l'île

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Summary of 5 reviews
4.2/5
Average rating
+18
Total recommendations

Ratings by visit type

With family
4.2
As a couple
3.8
With friends
3.8

Avygeo ranking

#223
in the world
#192
in Europe
#102
in France
#2
in Nantes

Stars in my eyes

I have been to Les Machines de l'île twice, and I cannot recommend the place enough! Whether you are a fan of steampunk, fantasy movies, or just a parent who wants to light up their child's eyes, the visit is sure to be unforgettable. I went the first time with friends, and the second time with vacationers as part of a specialized trip where I was working. I still have a very vivid memory of the wonder I felt watching the machines come to life, just like the wonder I saw in the eyes of the adults I was accompanying!

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Pathetic

The employees certainly have the right to strike and probably have good reasons for doing so, but the way they are holding people hostage is simply pathetic.
We planned this surprise for our 7-year-old daughter several weeks ago, and we were warned the day before about a strike notice, but were told to come at 2 PM anyway. We came, waited as indicated on the ticket for 15 minutes... only to learn that the elephant would not be starting because they were indeed on strike! Why make us come and wait in vain? Adults can get over the frustration, but what about the kids? What kind of image do they want to project?
We took the train, we are not from Nantes, this elephant ride was the highlight of the day and... nothing!
We will get a refund, that is fine, but are they going to reimburse our train tickets too?
We are not ready to come back to Nantes anytime soon, that is for sure...

P.S: thanks for the cancellation text message, received at 3:06 PM even though our ride was scheduled for 2:15 PM!!

11
15/02/2026

Désolé pour votre petite, et bon courage à vous

15/02/2026

Désolé pour votre petite, et bon courage à vous

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A unique attraction you cannot miss

The Elephant on the Île de Nantes is impressive in size. At over 12 meters high and 8 meters wide, it really towers over you.
The ride on its back is incredible, offering a unique view of the island and the Loire river.
I loved seeing the water spraying animation, which makes both kids and adults smile.
It is a unique, fun, and fascinating attraction that you should not miss!

3
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A fabulous journey into the world of Jules Verne

You cannot visit Nantes without going to Les Machines de l'île. The iconic elephant, whose trumpeting can be heard from the other side of the Loire, has become a symbol of the city. An engineering feat, it seems alive thanks to the exceptional animation of its head and trunk, which sprays water. As the only animal visible without a ticket, it offers fantastic rides on its back. The Machines also feature an extraordinary gallery filled with insects, including a splendid and scary spider, as well as a very impressive Marine Worlds Carousel, which takes us on a three level journey, from the depths of the sea to the surface, in an incredible adventure. Remember to book your tickets in advance because the Machines are often sold out by the morning.

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Great family memory

Located on the successfully redeveloped Île de Beaulieu, Les Machines de l'île quickly got people talking about Nantes in the media. Huge machines representing animals start moving at regular intervals. Operated by pilots seated on board, they move around, mimic animal behavior, and spray water on the public (those not warned might be surprised).

The most famous machine is undoubtedly the elephant. It is several meters tall, and you can climb on board if you have the patience to wait in the long line. We were content just watching it move toward us and then spray us with water from its trunk. The whole family had a blast.

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