Suspension bridge
Discover the thrill of walking across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in Portugal
Are you ready for an exciting adventure that will leave you with unforgettable memories? Then walk across the ponte 516, the longest suspension bridge in Portugal and one of the three longest suspension bridges in the world.
At 516 metres long, the bridge offers breathtaking views of the beautiful Paiva River and the lush greenery of the surrounding landscape. Walking across this marvel of engineering is an experience like no other, as you feel the thrill of floating above the rushing water below.
But don’t worry, the bridge is built to withstand winds of up to 200 km/hour and can carry 375 people across at a time.
So, whether you are looking for an adrenaline rush or just want to enjoy the beauty of nature, the Arouca suspension bridge is a must-see destination.
Introducing the longest suspension bridge in Portugal
The suspension bridge is undoubtedly one of Portugal’s biggest tourist attractions. Located in the municipality of Arouca, in northern Portugal, the bridge is an impressive feat of engineering that spans the beautiful Paiva River. The bridge’s design comes from architect Ivo Martins.
History of the bridge and its construction
Construction of the suspension bridge began in 2016 and took about two years. The bridge was officially opened to the public on 29 April 2021. The bridge’s design is based on a modern interpretation of the traditional rope bridge design, which has been used for centuries in mountainous areas around the world.
The construction process was not an easy task and required a lot of effort and dedication. During construction, the bridge remained the subject of intense debate and discussion as some people were concerned about its safety. However, the bridge builders always stressed that the bridge was designed and built with the highest safety standards in mind.
Features and specifications of the bridge
The suspension bridge is an impressive structure designed to withstand the elements while offering visitors a unique experience. At 516 metres long, it offers stunning views of the Paiva River and the surrounding landscape. The bridge is built at a height of 175 metres above the river and is designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 200 km/h.
At night, the bridge is illuminated which creates a beautiful atmosphere. There are also several rest areas on the bridge where visitors can take a break and enjoy the view.
The experience of walking across the longest suspension bridge
Walking across the suspension bridge is an unforgettable experience you won’t soon forget. It is a real challenge as you walk high above the river and the bridge wobbles and moves under your feet. But it is also an incredibly satisfying experience because you get a sense of achievement when you reach the other side.
The view from the bridge is breathtaking and you can really enjoy the beauty of nature. It is a great way to relax and unwind while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Safety regulations and guidelines
The suspension bridge has been designed and built with the highest safety standards in mind. There are several safety features on the bridge, including railings and safety cables. Professional guides are also present to ensure that visitors can walk across the bridge safely.
As expected, there are some safety regulations that visitors must follow to ensure they stay safe. For example, visitors must wear appropriate clothing and shoes and must not consume alcohol or drugs before walking on the bridge. They should also follow the guides’ instructions and not climb on the railing or damage the bridge.
The best time to visit the bridge
The Arouca suspension bridge is open all year round and can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit the bridge is during spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and nature is at its best.
In summer, the bridge can be very crowded. But visitor numbers are regulated because you have to buy a ticket in advance. Nevertheless the best time to visit the bridge is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. In winter, it can be very cold on the bridge, so it is important to wear warm clothes.
As sad, it is necessary to buy a ticket in advance. Tugar has three options, we can arrange only the tickets, we can arrange the tickets and provide a transfer to take you back to the start place. Or we can accompany you on the hike and arrange the transfer for you.
Other activities in the area
Besides the suspension bridge, there are many other attractions in the area worth exploring. One is the wooden walkway, an 8-kilometre path along the Paiva River. It is a great way to enjoy nature and the beauty of the surrounding area.
If you buy a ticket for the suspension bridge, you will also have access to the wooden walkway.
It is also possible to canoe raft, canyoning, do a river trekking or river tubing. And there are plenty of hiking opportunities, both guided and autonomous. In winter, it is possible to go rafting.
If you want to know more about the possibilities, email us at info@tugar.nl