Geierlay Suspension Bridge
Rheinland-Pfalz
The Geierlay Suspension Bridge, officially known as Hängeseilbrücke Geierlay, is a 360-meter-long pedestrian suspension bridge located in the Hunsrück region of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. It spans the Mörsdorfer Bachtal valley, connecting the municipalities of Mörsdorf and Sosberg. Opened in October 2015, it was Germany's longest suspension bridge until 2017 and remains one of Europe's longest. The bridge stands approximately 100 meters above the valley floor and can support up to 50 tons, accommodating around 600 people simultaneously. Constructed with a design inspired by Nepalese suspension bridges, its structure features steel cables and wooden planks made of pressure-treated Douglas fir, ensuring durability and safety. The bridge offers spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscape and is a popular destination for hikers, families, and photographers. It is accessible year-round, free of charge, and allows bicycles to be pushed across. The bridge is part of the Saar-Hunsrück-Steig hiking trail and is integrated into two scenic circular hiking routes. The visitor center in Mörsdorf provides parking, a bistro, and shuttle bus connections to nearby towns and train stations, enhancing accessibility. The name Geierlay derives from a nearby rock formation historically inhabited by birds of prey, reflecting the area's natural heritage. Since its opening, the bridge has attracted millions of visitors, making it a symbol of adventure and natural beauty in the Hunsrück uplands.
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Tip: The Geierlay Suspension Bridge is open 24/7 year-round and free to visit, making early mornings or weekdays ideal to avoid crowds. Visitors should wear sturdy footwear for the 1.8 km well-maintained approach trail. Bicycles are allowed but must be pushed across the bridge for safety. Families with narrow strollers can cross comfortably, and dogs are welcome if leashed. It is advisable to check the visitor center in Mörsdorf for current events, guided tours, and shuttle bus schedules connecting to nearby towns and train stations. Booking special activities like the outdoor escape adventure near the bridge in advance is recommended to secure participation.
Interesting facts
- •The Geierlay Suspension Bridge was Germany's longest pedestrian suspension bridge from 2015 until 2017.
- •It is constructed following Nepalese suspension bridge design principles, similar to the Trift Bridge in Switzerland.
- •The bridge's wooden walkway is made of pressure-treated Douglas fir, a wood approved for structural use in Germany.
- •The bridge can hold a maximum load of approximately 50 tons, or about 600 people at once.
- •The name 'Geierlay' refers to a nearby rock formation historically inhabited by birds of prey, with 'Geier' meaning vulture or raptor in German.
History
The idea for the Geierlay Suspension Bridge originated in 2006 during village renewal plans in Mörsdorf but was initially deemed unfeasible.
It was revived in 2010 by local citizens and approved by the municipal council the same year.
Construction began in May 2015 and the bridge officially opened on October 3, 2015.
Inspired by Nepalese suspension bridge designs, the project was coordinated by a local urban planning firm with engineering support from Swiss companies.
The bridge held the title of Germany's longest suspension bridge until 2017.
Since its opening, it has become a major tourist attraction, drawing over two million visitors by April 2023.
Place Guide
Main Span and Structure2015
The bridge's main span stretches 360 meters across the Mörsdorfer Bachtal valley at a height of nearly 100 meters. It is supported by four lower closed spiral cables (40 mm diameter) and two upper open spiral cables (32 mm diameter) that serve as handrails. The anchoring system uses deep Dywidag anchor rods cemented up to 25 meters into the rock, ensuring stability against wind and load.
Visitor Center and Access
Located in Mörsdorf, the visitor center offers a large paid parking area suitable for cars and buses. It includes a bistro and serves as the starting point for the 1.8 km well-maintained trail leading to the bridge. Shuttle buses run regularly between the visitor center and nearby towns Kastellaun and Treis-Karden, connecting to regional train services.
Contact
Phone: 06762 9034080
