The Millau Viaduct, an architectural feat not to be missed
The Millau Viaduct, also known as the Millau Bridge, is an exceptional achievement designed by Sir Norman Foster, the internationally renowned architect behind the Narbo Via Museum in Narbonne and the Carré d’Art in Nîmes, in collaboration with Michel Virlogeux, a specialist bridge engineer.
This masterpiece of steel and reinforced concrete was inaugurated in 2004 by Jacques Chirac, after 14 years of studies and 3 years of construction.
Today, this majestic structure in the Aveyron region overlooks the Tarn valley and blends perfectly into the landscape of the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park. It connects Clermont-Ferrand to Béziers via the A75 motorway, offering an efficient alternative to driving through Millau.
The Millau Viaduct is one of the sites to visit during your stay in Millau and the surrounding area.
The Millau Viaduct: a tourist site to discover
Located on the motorway service area, the Viaduc Expo is open free of charge all year round. This immersive space takes you behind the scenes of this technical feat, with exclusive images of its construction and a captivating show.
Among the must-do activities on site:
- The guided tour ‘Le Sentier des Explorateurs’ (The Explorers’ Trail): a privileged tour close to the viaduct, accompanied by an expert guide who will answer all your questions.
- Access to the viewing platform, located under the deck, offering a panoramic view of the structure and the surrounding landscape.
- In summer (July-August), take part in a unique experience: a trip inside pier P2, the tallest bridge pier in the world (245 metres high)!
The Millau Viaduct is a must-see site during any stay in Aveyron.
The Millau Bridge rest area: much more than just a motorway rest area
Unlike traditional rest areas, the Millau Bridge rest area offers high-quality services and facilities:
- Leisure and recreation area: children’s playground, agility course for dogs
- Breathtaking views: viewpoint overlooking the viaduct
- Facilities for travellers: car park for light vehicles, disabled parking and coach parking, sanitary facilities for motorhomes (March to October)
- Practical services: picnic tables, toilets and nursery, access to drinking water, free Wi-Fi
- Official shop: souvenirs and merchandise related to the Millau Viaduct
The impressive records of the Millau Viaduct
- The world’s highest road bridge, standing at 343 m, 19 m higher than the Eiffel Tower!
- P2 pier: the world’s highest bridge pier at 245 m.
- Former record holder for the longest multi-cable-stayed bridge (2,460 m) until 2013, beaten by the Siduhe Bridge in China (2,680 m).
What to visit around the Millau Viaduct?
Make the most of your visit to discover other remarkable sites near the Viaduct:
The Millau Viaduct is much more than a bridge: it’s an experience to be enjoyed in the heart of Aveyron!
