20-02-2025
Watch: Eiffel Tower opens new ‘vertigo' walkway
The Eiffel Tower in Paris has opened a dizzying new walkway 200ft above the ground for fearless thrill-seekers.
Billed as the 'highest urban bridge' in France, Vertigo of the Tower is a suspension bridge that stretches 131ft from the south and north pillars of the first floor of the monument.
Made up of two superimposed layers of blue knotted nets, equal to 25,000 meshes, the attraction offers a new way to experience the world's most iconic tower: with the imposing iron lattice structure above, and the heart-thumping drop to the ground below.
The bridge is completely enclosed and held in place by parallel and lateral cables.
The official website seeks to reassure visitors of the bridge's solidity, noting that it can withstand resistance of 30,000 kg/m².
'The only risk is that you'll want to do it again,' the site claims.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult, and it's not recommended for those who suffer extreme vertigo.
The attraction was installed by French company Arboricorde, which specialises in high rope and treetop net courses. The sewing techniques are inspired by fishing nets.
In 2019, the group installed a suspended net below the glass dome of Galeries Lafayette in the French capital as part of the department store's 'Funorama' theme, a throwback to childhood fun and games. The net was built like a floating playground 50ft above the shopping centre floor.
The suspension bridge is the latest of several high-flying experiences that have been launched at the Eiffel Tower in recent years.
In 2017 and 2019, a zip line was installed on the second floor, 380ft above ground, which sent riders hurtling 2,630ft across the Champ de Mars green space at speeds of up to 100kmph. The experience lasted around a minute.
For several winters, a mini skating rink has also been installed on the tower's first floor.
Vertigo of the Tower is free for ticket holders and will operate until March 9. Visitors must register for a time slot on the first floor of the tower. The attraction is open 10.30am to 6.30pm every day, and extends operating hours to 8pm on weekends.
The maximum capacity of the bridge is four people at a time. Among the rules: no running, jumping, high heels, food or drinks – and no turning back.
