Espaces EDF Bazacle

About the museum

The Bazacle site lies at the location of the former ford across the Garonne, a crossing that gave rise to the city of Toulouse. Floating mills were installed here as early as the 9th century, later replaced by fixed mills. In the 14th century, their owners joined together in what is presented as the first known joint-stock company.

In 1888, the Grand Moulin du Bazacle was converted into a hydroelectric power station by the Société Toulousaine d'Électricité, which then lit up the city centre. EDF became the owner of the site in 1946. The power station is still operating: it has seven generating units, 21 gates and an output of 3,000 kilowatts, and supplies on average 15 GWh per year, equal to the annual consumption of about 10,000 inhabitants.

The site, covering around 2,000 m², now offers a free-access visitor circuit on energy, biodiversity and heritage, with permanent trails and exhibitions. The fish pass, built in 1989, allows eight species of migratory fish to cross the 4.5 m high weir; an observation window gives visitors a chance, with a little luck, to see them pass. The power station's machine hall is accessible only on a guided tour.

Highlights

• Hydroelectric power station still in operation, visited with a guide
• Fish pass with observation window
• Large panoramic terrace overlooking the Garonne
• Six permanent trails on electricity, the river and the architecture of the site
• Immersive “Watt!” experience in mixed reality, from age 12

Permanent exhibition

• Parcours permanents des Espaces EDF Bazacle – Six trails on electricity, the power station in operation, the site's past, the architecture of the Bazacle and the life of the river, complemented by the fish pass.

Founded

1910

Operated by

EDF

Admission & discounts

Guided tours are booked through the Office de Tourisme de Toulouse (05 17 42 31 31 or infos@toulouse-team.com).

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The site is accessible to people with disabilities and holds the Tourisme & Handicap label. On site there are documents in Braille, large-print and simplified text, an access plan for wheelchair users, subtitled films and hearing assistance devices.

Kids & families

The observation window of the fish pass fascinates young and old alike. The “Watt!” experience is reserved for people aged 12 and over.

Getting there & parking

For cyclists, the official website lists the Faculté de sciences sociales station.

Amenities & dining

• Restaurant

Temporary restaurant Turbine on the terrace facing the Garonne, open from May 30, 2026.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit