Millau viaduct, France.
The Millau Viaduct is an impressive feat of modern engineering, heralded as the tallest bridge in the world with a structural height of 343 meters, surpassing even the Eiffel Tower. Completed in 2004, this cable-stayed bridge gracefully spans the Tarn River valley near Millau in Southern France. The design collaboration between French engineer Michel Virlogeux and English architect Norman Foster resulted in a structure that not only solved traffic congestion problems but also became a celebrated architectural landmark.
It took around three years to construct the viaduct, with the roadway itself made of high-grade steel instead of concrete, allowing for a design that's both elegant and functional. The bridge is part of the A75-A71 autoroute axis, creating a direct route from Paris to the Mediterranean, and the construction cost was approximately €394 million.
An interesting aspect of the viaduct is the design that accommodates the natural expansion and contraction of the concrete deck, thanks to its innovative structural system. The bridge is not only a marvel for its height but also for its length, stretching 2,460 meters across the valley and resting on just seven pillars, which emphasises its light and airy design.For those visiting, the best photo opportunities come just after sunrise in autumn, when the bridge often appears to float above the mists in the valley below.
There's a large rest area north of the viaduct that offers spectacular views and a visitor centre with information about the bridge. If you're keen on exploring from different vantage points, you can consider viewing it from below in a canoe, walking close to it, or even seeing it from the air with a hang gliding experience.The viaduct also carries a toll, which varies depending on the season and type of vehicle.
Despite the fee, it's considered the least congested and most cost-effective route between Paris and the Mediterranean, adding to its allure for travellers.
The bridge's grandeur and technical prowess make it a significant tourist attraction in its own right, drawing those interested not only in engineering and architecture but also in experiencing the stunning landscapes of the region.
