Embark on a journey unlike any other aboard the Great Elephant at Les Machines de l'île in Nantes, France. This mechanical marvel, standing at 12 meters high and weighing 48.4 tons, offers a truly unique experience as it takes you on a 45-minute walk around the former shipyards. Designed by François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice, the elephant is made from 2,000 pieces of wood and steel and can carry up to 50 passengers. As it moves, it sprays water from its trunk, flaps its ears, and makes trumpet calls, bringing the illusion of a living creature to life. This majestic ride provides a panoramic view of the Isle of Nantes and an immersive experience into the world of mechanical art.
Dive into an aquatic fantasy world with the Carousel of the Marine Worlds, a monumental 25-meter high carousel that features 3 levels of sea creatures from the ocean's depths to its surface. Each level represents a different layer of the sea - the ocean floor, the abyss, and the sea surface, and riders can choose to ride on intricate mechanical animals such as a giant crab, flying fish, or a submarine. The experience is not only thrilling but also an artistic masterpiece showcasing the beauty and diversity of marine life through the lens of mechanical art. A ride on this carousel is a memorable activity for both children and adults that also pays homage to Nantes' history as a port city.
The Machine Gallery is a fascinating insight into the mechanical universe and the creative process of the Machines of the Isle of Nantes. Visitors are treated to a behind-the-scenes look at the workshop where these incredible machines are brought to life. The exhibit features prototypes and models of various scales, and you will learn about the mechanics and engineering that go into the machines' construction and operation. What's more, the gallery is interactive, allowing guests to operate some of the machines themselves. This activity is not only educational for those interested in mechanical engineering and design but also wonderfully entertaining for all curious minds looking to understand the magic behind the machines.
Imagine stepping into a living, breathing mechanical forest; this is the Heron Tree experience at Les Machines de l'île. The project, still under construction, envisions a colossal steel tree that will be populated by mechanical creatures that cohabit with it. Plans include herons that will fly with passengers clinging to their backs, insects, and plants that create an immersive ecosystem. This ambitious project represents the pinnacle of art and nature coming together through machinery. Although visitors currently cannot ride the animals, there is a viewing platform available where one can admire the ongoing work and the scope of what is to come in the future, making this visit an inspiring glimpse into future possibilities.
Go behind the scenes with the Machine Workshop Tours, where you'll step into the workshop where Les Machines de l'île are made. This guided tour offers an in-depth look into the creative realm where artists and engineers collaborate to turn dreams into mechanical wonders. During this tour, visitors can observe craftspeople at work, see sketches and plans, and maybe even catch a glimpse of new machines in the making. This is a rare chance to see the intricate process of crafting these large-scale, dynamic sculptures, making it a must-do for enthusiasts of mechanics, art, and innovation.
The Terraces of the Workshop offer a pleasant and leisurely activity with an excellent vantage point to view the ongoing work at the Machines of the Isle of Nantes. From this aerial walkway, you not only get a bird's-eye view of the workshop but also the surrounding vicinity, including the Loire River. It's a wonderful spot to take photographs, enjoy the aerial perspectives of the mechanical creatures, and appreciate the synergy of art and industry. The terraces are easily accessible and offer a more passive but equally mesmerizing experience for those who wish to soak in the atmosphere without engaging in the more hands-on activities.
The Mechanic Zoo is an immersive space where mechanical animals provide an interactive experience for visitors. Although not as large as an actual zoo, the Mechanic Zoo presents a collection of smaller-scale machines that mimic the movements and behaviors of real animals. Guests can engage with mechanical creatures, such as ants and caterpillars, and learn about their construction and the innovation involved. The Mechanic Zoo is perfect for families with children and anyone who marvels at the intersection of nature and machine.
Discover 'The Prototypes of the Depths' located within the Machine Gallery, a special exhibition that shows off the mechanical denizens of the deep that one day will populate the Carousel of the Marine Worlds. Witness firsthand the experimental stages of these undersea creatures as they are tested for mobility and interactivity. The sea creatures on display often include mechanical squids, manta rays, and other wonders of the ocean. Visitors get to see the evolution from idea to functioning machine, which is a captivating journey for all ages.
Take a break from the mechanical wonders with a visit to The Workshop Cafe. This cozy spot offers a variety of refreshments and snacks, making it the perfect place to relax and reflect on the experiences of the day. The cafe also includes a viewing area into the machine workshop, so you can sip your coffee while watching the craftspeople at work. It's an inviting environment that serves as a social hub where visitors can gather, discuss their favorite machines, and plan their next adventure in Les Machines de l'île.
Conclude your visit to Les Machines de l'île with a trip to the Gift Shop, where you can take a piece of this mechanical wonderland home with you. The shop features a wide array of souvenirs, from postcards and t-shirts to intricate models of the machines you've seen. Whether it's for yourself or as a gift for someone special, the shop provides a treasure trove of memorabilia that celebrates the imagination and craftsmanship of the Machines of the Isle of Nantes. It's an excellent opportunity to find a keepsake that encapsulates the spirit of this unique attraction.
Religious Places (1)
Historical Places (12)
Museums (6)
Island (1)
Gardens (1)
