Taking the plunge from 200 feet on a viaduct designed by Gustave Eiffel
Constructed between 1887 and 1889 by the teams of Gustave Eiffel, the Viaduc de la Souleuvre towers 61 meters (200 feet) above the river of the same name. Long retired from rail service, this structure in Normandy has served for nearly thirty years as one of the few permanent bungee jumping sites in France.
The experience
Upon arrival at the site, participants walk out onto the metal structure toward the jumping platform, with the valley floor gradually dropping away beneath their feet. The team handles the full harness fitting, safety briefing, and final gear checks before the countdown begins. The freefall lasts for a few intense seconds, followed by several bounces above the river. The most daring jumpers can opt for the water touch, which involves grazing the surface of the water with your fingertips at the lowest point of the trajectory.
What sets this site apart
The setting is unique. Jumping from the pier of an Eiffel viaduct in a wooded valley of the Calvados region feels very different from a generic amusement park ride. The site is certified under the AFNOR standard (the French national organization for standardization). Each participant leaves with a T-shirt and an official jump passport. Photo and video packages are available for purchase directly on-site.
Arrive 15 minutes early for your scheduled time. The safety briefing is mandatory, and you cannot join if you arrive late.
Who it is for: Thrill-seekers, groups of friends, birthdays, or bachelor and bachelorette parties. The minimum weight required is 40 kg (88 lbs), and the maximum for a solo jump is 150 kg (330 lbs). Tandem jumps are possible for a combined weight of up to 260 kg (573 lbs).
Less suitable if: You have certain medical contraindications, such as epilepsy, heart conditions, pregnancy, herniated discs, or a history of head trauma. A medical certificate is mandatory for anyone over 60 years old.
How long for this activity
1 hour
*Information subject to change
On the road during a sidecar road trip through the Normandy countryside, we decided to take a long break at this park, having heard that Gustave Eiffel worked here back in 1893. We were not disappointed, and the break turned out to be much longer than expected. There are activities for the whole family around this superb viaduct. From hiking to thrills, everyone found something to enjoy. Parking and park entry are free, while the activities cost extra and offer plenty of variety. The place is impressive and definitely worth spending the day there. We will be back soon.