The Millau Viaduct in southern France is the world's tallest bridge, standing at 343 metres (1,125 feet) — higher than the Eiffel Tower, which reaches 330 metres. The bridge, which cost approximately €394 million (£345 million) to build, is part of a motorway connecting Paris to the Mediterranean.
Design and Construction
Designed by British architect Sir Norman Foster, the viaduct was completed in 2004. It spans 2,460 metres across the Tarn Valley, touching the valley floor only nine times. According to Le Shuttle, plans for a road crossing date back to the 1980s, and the viaduct was chosen as the most viable solution with the least ecological impact. Construction began in 2001.
Features to Combat Driver Disorientation
The bridge includes a slight curve extending 20 kilometres on either side to prevent drivers from feeling like they are floating. Enjoy Travel explains that a straight bridge could induce a sensation of floating, so the architects added a 3% incline to improve visibility and driver reassurance. Additionally, side screens reduce the impact of wind gusts up to 151 km/h by 50%.
Tourism and Activities
Although there is no pedestrian access as it is a high-speed motorway, the viaduct attracts tourists. Guided tours include a nature path to a viewing platform below the bridge and visits inside one of the tallest pylons. A marathon is held annually on the viaduct, and the Tour de France has passed underneath several times.
Visitor Reviews
On TripAdvisor, one visitor described it as "one not to be missed" and a "real engineering feat." Another said, "An absolutely superb place! The viaduct and the surrounding landscape are so beautiful that you feel like you are part of a painting." A third commented, "Visited today after it been on my bucket list. Great visitors centre, cafe and toilets. Parking is free and you can walk up a 470m path to an awesome view point."
