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Pont Transbordeur: A Historic Crossing

Experience a ride through history on France's last transporter bridge, offering unique views of the Charente and a glimpse into engineering ingenuity.

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The Pont Transbordeur, or Transporter Bridge, is a riveted iron monument bridging Rochefort and Échillais. Built in 1900 by Ferdinand Arnodin, this engineering marvel is one of the last of its kind in France, offering a unique suspended gondola ride for pedestrians and cyclists across the Charente River.

A brief summary to Pont Transbordeur

  • Monday 10:30 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 9:30 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-1 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 9:30 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 9:30 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Check the operating schedule in advance, as the bridge is open seasonally, typically from late March to early November.
  • Visit the Maison du Transbordeur on the Échillais side for a free exhibition on the bridge's history and construction.
  • Take advantage of the panoramic terrace on the Rochefort side for stunning views of the bridge and the Charente River.
  • Consider purchasing a multi-journey pass if you plan to cross the bridge frequently during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Rochefort, walk south along Avenue Jacques Demy. The bridge will become visible as you approach. The ticket office is located at the foot of the bridge. Allow approximately 20-30 minutes for the walk. Note that the pedestrian access includes stairs.

  • Public Transport

    From Rochefort city center, take the R'bus lines A, B, D, or F to the Centre Commercial stop. From there, walk along Avenue Jacques Demy for about 7 minutes to reach the bridge. A single bus ticket costs around €1.50.

  • Driving

    From the D733, follow signs for 'Rochefort centre - Pont Transbordeur'. Limited parking is available near Avenue Jacques Demy. Parking visiteurs for vehicles légers et cars de tourisme: avenue du 11 novembre 1918 - 17300 ROCHEFORT. Coordonnées GPS : 45.920668 -0.964045. 700 mètres de marche (9 minutes) jusqu'à la billetterie. ​ Places de parking PMR situées avenue Jacques Demy. Coordonnées GPS : 45.918136 -0.960674. 130 mètres de marche (2 minutes). Parking is typically free, but can be crowded during peak season.

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Discover more about Pont Transbordeur

The Pont Transbordeur, soaring 50 meters above the Charente River, stands as a testament to innovative engineering from the turn of the 20th century. Inaugurated in 1900, this transporter bridge was designed by Ferdinand Arnodin to facilitate passage across the river without impeding naval traffic to and from the Rochefort Dockyard. Until 1967, it efficiently carried vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists via a suspended gondola. After being closed to traffic due to the construction of modern bridges, the Pont Transbordeur faced potential demolition in the 1970s. However, local advocacy saved the structure, and it was classified as a historical monument in 1976. Restoration work allowed it to reopen to pedestrians and cyclists in 1994, and further renovations completed in 2020 have ensured its preservation. Today, visitors can experience a ride on the gondola, offering panoramic views of the Charente Estuary. On the Échillais side, the Maison du Transbordeur provides a free visitor center with exhibits detailing the bridge's history and the mechanics of its operation. The Rochefort side features a souvenir shop and a panoramic terrace. The Pont Transbordeur is open from late March to early November.

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