Pont-canal de Briare
A steel canal bridge completed in 1896 that carries canal boats across the Loire, 662 meters long, with elegant lamp posts along its deck.
The Pont-canal de Briare links the Canal de Briare with the Canal latéral à la Loire. At 662 meters long, it was the longest navigable canal bridge in the world when completed. Its steel structure was built with the participation of the Eiffel company, and both ends are decorated with stone columns and cast-iron lamp posts. Visitors can walk along the footpaths on either side and look out over the Loire, or board a river cruise at the port of Briare and sail across the bridge (about 1.5 hours, operated in summer). Admission is free. Located about 75 km from Orléans, it can be combined with Gien Castle as an eastern day trip.
Opening hours
All day; boat rides approx. Apr–Oct
Nearby sights
- Château de Gien
- Château de Sully-sur-Loire
- Abbey of Saint-Benoît-sur-Loire (Fleury Abbey)
- Oratory of Germigny-des-Prés
- Château & Park of Châteauneuf-sur-Loire
- Château de Chamerolles
- Château de La Ferté-Saint-Aubin
- Parc Floral de la Source