The Grand Elephant of the Nefs
Designed by the La Machine company, the Grand Elephant has strolled among the Nefs of the former shipyards since 2007, carrying some fifty passengers on its back. Twelve metres tall, it trumpets, puffs and swivels in a setting of steel and wood. Watching it leave with someone from the terrace nearby, then climbing aboard, is one of the most memorable dates the city offers, both playful and spectacular.
Carousel of Marine Worlds and the Nefs
At the end of the Nefs, the Carousel of the Marine Worlds stacks three levels of animated creatures inspired by Jules Verne and the deep sea. You climb aboard a giant squid or a fish-boat for two and laugh freely. The Nefs themselves hold the workshops where the next machines come to life: a walk among the great metal frames invites curious visitors to carry on the conversation.
Hangar à bananes and contemporary quays
Walking westwards, the Hangar à bananes on Quai des Antilles has turned a former warehouse into bars and terraces facing the Loire, flanked by Daniel Buren’s illuminated Rings. In summer, the Voyage à Nantes trail links all these works along a green line painted on the ground. On Lyad, Nantes members name their favourite pieces; it is up to you to find someone to follow that line to its end.
Date ideas
- Machines de l’île
- Grand Elephant
- Hangar à bananes
- Nefs des Chantiers
- Carousel of the Marine Worlds
- Quai des Antilles
- Voyage à Nantes