THE LOIRE ESTUARY

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Dive into the secrets of the Loire estuary

The TERRE D’ESTUAIRE Visitor Centre invites you on an extraordinary journey!

Located halfway between Nantes and the Atlantic coast, this unique destination offers an exciting, interactive experience for families and groups alike. Float 25 metres into the air in a balloon, follow the migratory birds, explore the seabed, travel back in time to the age of pirates and Vikings, and enjoy a variety of activities for kids and families…

With its exhibition spaces and immersive experiences, TERRE D’ESTUAIRE has plenty of surprises in store.

OBSERVE

The balloon

Board the balloon and rise 25 meters for breathtaking views from the river to the ocean !

A nod to Jules Verne, inspired by the Loire River and its estuary, the balloon invites you to soar above the landscape and enjoy a unique view all the way to the Saint Nazaire bridge.

 

LEARN

Step 1 : Discover

Learn what an estuary is, explore its landscapes, understand human impact, and uncover the hidden natural treasures.

 

ENJOY

Step 2 : Understand

Dive into the estuary’s maritime history, its rich biodiversity, and its industrial and economic role.

Try your hand at navigating traditional boats on a 40 m² water basin or reconstruct iconic ships in the virtual shipyard.

SLOW
DOWN

Step 3 : Experiment

Relax on a large round sofa for a virtual journey following migratory birds—a unique, dreamlike experience highlighting the estuary as a vital stopover and food source for wildlife.

Young scientists can also explore environmental and industrial aspects of the estuary in hands-on mini-labs.

 

SHARE

Step 4 : Travel

Explore the unseen: Dive beneath the waves to investigate the underwater world. Search for shipwrecks at the estuary’s mouth and offshore.

Travel through History: Discover tales of piracy, corsairs, and flibustiers. Learn about the salt trade, Viking incursions, and the 18th-century circumnavigation of Louis-Antoine de Bougainville aboard La Boudeuse, which set sail from the Loire estuary.

PRICES 2026*

Ticket prices Period : Feb 7–Jun 19 and Sep 28–Nov 1 Period : Jun 20–Sep 27
Adults € 11 € 13.50
Children (ages 5-12) € 9 € 11.50
Children under 5 free free
Family pass (2 adults + 2 children, ages 5-17) € 33 € 43

*VAT included.

Your ticket includes: the balloon ride, permanent exhibition, and temporary exhibitions.

Good to know !
TERRE D’ESTUAIRE is included in the Pass Nantes.
We are equipped to welcome cyclists.