Don’t look down: world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge opens in Portugal
- The see-through 516-metre bridge hangs 175 metres above the fast-flowing Paiva River
- Locals hope its US$2.8 million construction will help revive the region after the coronavirus pandemic by drawing people to live there
Hugo Xavier became one of the first people to cross the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge when it opened on Thursday near his tiny hometown of Arouca, in northern Portugal.
“Oh … here we go!,” the 42-year-old said, anxiously, as he gathered the courage to step onto the see-through metal grid pathway of the 516 metre (1,693ft) bridge alongside his equally jittery partner and a tour guide.
Hidden between rock-strewn mountains covered with lush greenery and yellow flowers inside the Unesco-recognised Arouca Geopark, the bridge, baptised “516 Arouca”, hangs 175 metres above the fast-flowing Paiva River. The gorge is strung with 8km (5 miles) of wooden walkways.
The bridge is not for the faint-hearted. Held up by steel cables and two massive towers on each side, it wobbles a little with every step.
“I was a little afraid, but it was so worth it,” a relieved Xavier said, on the other side. “It was extraordinary, a unique experience, an adrenaline rush.”
The bridge opened only to local residents on Thursday, but from Monday everyone can book a visit.