If you find yourself in Nantes, Les Machines de l’Île is definitely worth a visit. We spent about two and a half hours exploring the site, and it’s a unique experience that blends art, engineering, and a bit of whimsy in a way you won’t find elsewhere.
The highlight for many (and for us!) is the Grand Elephant—a giant, mechanical elephant that you can actually ride. Yes, there’s an extra charge for the ride, but it’s a fun experience. As you climb aboard and slowly take off, you get great views of the area while the elephant moves and even sprays water. It’s a bit like stepping into a steampunk fantasy world – think the oliphants ridden by the Haradrim from the Lord of the Rings films! It’s definitely an enjoyable experience and one of the more memorable ways to see an attraction. The ride itself lasts about 20-30 minutes.
After that, we made our way to the Carrousel des Mondes Marins, which is another must-see. This isn’t just any carousel. It’s a multi-level, interactive structure with a variety of marine-themed creatures you can ride, from giant crabs to mechanical sea monsters. The level of detail in each piece is impressive, and it’s clear a lot of craftsmanship went into designing the rides. However, it’s worth noting that it can get a bit crowded, so if you’re not up for waiting, plan accordingly.
Inside, the Gallery of Machines gives a deeper look into how all the mechanical creatures work. It’s a bit technical, but if you’re into engineering or steampunk, or just want to see some very cool “moving art”, it’s interesting to see how the gears, pistons, and hydraulic systems bring everything to life. You can watch some of the machines in action and learn about the process behind them, which adds another layer to the experience. However, when we went the talk given by the guide person was in French – there is an app that gives it in English though!
One of the more charming parts of the park is the Mécanique des Plantes, where mechanical plants and flowers react to your presence. It’s a nice touch and adds a little bit of magic to the day, though it’s not as engaging as some of the other larger exhibits. There’s also a bicycle powered butterfly tree that when you cycle, the wings on the butterflies flap!
Overall, Les Machines de l’Île is a really fun, creative stop that offers something a little different. It is somewhere we would definitely want to go back to with kids – the elephant itself would be absolutely amazing for them to ride on and see. It’s a great place to spend a few hours with a mix of curiosity and awe. If you enjoy quirky, hands-on exhibits and a bit of whimsy, it’s definitely worth the time. Be prepared for some crowds, especially around the main attractions – but that is just more evidence that it’s worth a visit.
