Europe's newest marvel: The sky‑high Tibetan bridge of Umbria

A quaint town nestled in the heart of Italian Umbria has recently unveiled a breathtaking sight. It's now home to Europe's highest Tibetan bridge, offering daring visitors an array of unforgettable moments.

This architectural marvel spans from Sellano, an enchanting medieval village, to the secluded mountain hamlet of Montesanto. Set amidst the rugged Apennines, these towns revel in their wild surroundings, dense with lush vegetation and situated roughly midway between Foligno and Spoleto.

Stretching 511 meters in length and perched 175 meters above the Valnerina, the valley of the Vigi River, this bridge claims the title of Europe's tallest (tied with Portugal's Arouca Bridge) of its kind. Notably, the bridge's lowest point is at 175 meters, as the structure gradually ascends, creating a 68-meter height differential from one end to the other.

The bridge's creators have ensured that it's accessible to all adventurers, from seasoned hikers to families with children or elders, guaranteeing a safe passage for every type of explorer.

To transition from one end of the bridge to the other, adventurers must navigate 1,023 steps, interspersed with spaces that offer daring glances below. While thrilling for many, this feature might stir anxiety in some.

Entrance requirements include a minimum height of 120 cm and donning a specially designed harness. Visitors must also declare their optimal health condition and confirm they do not suffer from vertigo.

Upon arrival, professional staff share essential information and assist with securing the harness and attaching a carabiner to the safety lines. The carabiner remains fastened until reaching the Montesanto station.

Given its one-way system, to return to Sellano, explorers embark on a scenic hike from Montesanto, descending the slopes alongside the Vigi River toward Lake Sellano. For those who crave more nature, an extended trail leads from the lake to the Rote waterfall.

In anticipation of future needs, there are plans to initiate a bus service that would transport visitors from Montesanto back to Sellano.

Tickets can be secured at the local box office or booked online in advance, which is advisable due to entry restrictions that may prevent last-minute participants from accessing the bridge.

Passage across the Tibetan bridge costs 25 euros (about £21), while a combined ticket, including the return transfer, costs 30 euros (approximately £25).

A Tibetan bridge, traditionally, is a suspension bridge made of ropes stretching across two high points, often across gorges. Key to its design is the intentional lack of stability, offering a dynamic crossing experience. Its path, lined with planks or panels and sided with ropes or chains for handrails, challenges one's balance and agility.