Laguna Garzón
Experience the unique circular Laguna Garzón Bridge, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of a protected coastal lagoon in Uruguay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views and safe driving
Laguna Garzón
Best Time
Best views and safe driving
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the unique circular Laguna Garzón Bridge, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of a protected coastal lagoon in Uruguay.
"It is just a bridge. But why not make more bridges this much fun?"
Slow Down and Enjoy
The circular design is meant to be savored. Take your time to appreciate the views and the unique architecture. :camerawithflash:
Cross with Care
Drivers are encouraged to slow down. Pedestrian crosswalks are available on both inner and outer sidewalks. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Circular Bridge
Laguna Garzón
A marvel of engineering and design, this unique circular bridge offers stunning panoramic views of the lagoon.
Lagoon Views
From the bridge
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the ecologically protected coastal lagoon, a serene natural landscape.
Architectural Significance
Laguna Garzón
Designed by Rafael Viñoly, this bridge is a testament to innovative and practical architectural thinking.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Circular Journey
Connecting Two Counties
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Any idea why this unique circular road bridge on the Laguna Garzón, Uruguay was built by Rafael Vinoly Architects? Designers do not often think about making their bridge round, but there must be a need and purpose to do so.
Slow Down and Enjoy
The circular design is meant to be savored. Take your time to appreciate the views and the unique architecture. :camerawithflash:
Cross with Care
Drivers are encouraged to slow down. Pedestrian crosswalks are available on both inner and outer sidewalks. :athletic_shoe:
Laguna Garzon Bridge
The Laguna Garzón Bridge in Uruguay is famous for its unusual circular shape. It was designed by architect Rafael Viñoly to force drivers to slow down when crossing it, reducing pollution and noise.
Environmental Impact
While beautiful, consider the increased fuel consumption and emissions associated with the longer route. :leaf:
Practical Connection
This bridge is a vital link, replacing an older ferry system. Expect daily traffic. :car:
The Laguna Garzón Bridge in Uruguay has an unusual circular shape that allows drivers to slow down and enjoy the view. It prevents head-on collisions and also offers pedestrian access.
Tips
from all over the internet
Slow Down and Enjoy
The circular design is meant to be savored. Take your time to appreciate the views and the unique architecture. :camerawithflash:
Cross with Care
Drivers are encouraged to slow down. Pedestrian crosswalks are available on both inner and outer sidewalks. :athletic_shoe:
Environmental Impact
While beautiful, consider the increased fuel consumption and emissions associated with the longer route. :leaf:
Practical Connection
This bridge is a vital link, replacing an older ferry system. Expect daily traffic. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the Laguna Garzón Bridge's unique circular design and the stunning panoramic views it offers of the ecologically protected lagoon. While some note the environmental implications of the extended route, most find the architectural marvel and its scenic setting to be a worthwhile experience and a vital connection between counties.
"A vehicle traveling across the bridge covers about 115 meters more than it would on a straight-line bridge. Scaled to 100,000 vehicles, this results in approximately 11,500 km of extra driving, consuming over 8,000 liters of fuel and releasing more than 18 tons of CO₂ into the atmosphere.
While the design intends to harmonize with nature (believe me it does not), the additional fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions somewhat contradict its environmentally conscious image."
gürkan bozkurt
"Located in the Maldonado Department of southeastern Uruguay, the bridge spans Uruguay's Laguna Garzón and it’s an essential connection between Rocha and Maldonado counties. Previously cars were using a small 2-vehicle ferry that required daylight and good weather to operate. And now, about 1000 vehicles are crossing it daily.
Inaugurated in 22 December 2015, the bridge was designed by a famous local architect Rafael Viñoly. The construction is tall enough for ships to pass below. It was created with 16 circular concrete pillars placed 20 meters (65 feet) apart and this unusual circular bridge has a 202-meter (663-foot) ring. Looking down from the bridge, visitors have a great view on a coastal lagoon in an ecologically protected area of Maldonado region.
The shape of Laguna Garzón Bridge is not simply the result of a unique artistic vision, it's very practical too. Its two semi-circular one-way sections force drivers to slow down and take in the view to provide an opportunity to enjoy panoramic views to an amazing landscape, including crosswalks that allow pedestrian access to either the inner or outer sidewalks of the circle.
* Some photos courtesy of Internet. Thanks!"
Dinh Tuan
"Nice place to visit."
Joan Manuel Lezcano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Laguna Garzón Bridge is located in the Maldonado Department of southeastern Uruguay, connecting the counties of Rocha and Maldonado. It's accessible by car via Route 10. If you're coming from Punta del Este, it's a scenic drive along the coast. :car:
Public transportation directly to the bridge is limited. Most visitors arrive by private vehicle or rental car, as it's part of a scenic coastal drive. :bus:
Driving across the bridge is the primary way to experience it. The circular design encourages a slower pace, allowing you to enjoy the panoramic views of the lagoon. :camerawithflash:
Yes, the bridge is part of a beautiful coastal region. Nearby attractions include beaches in Rocha and Maldonado, and the town of La Barra. :beachwithumbrella:
The bridge has pedestrian crosswalks on both the inner and outer sidewalks, allowing for walking and cycling. :running: :bike:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to cross the Laguna Garzón Bridge. It is a public road and free to use. :free:
The bridge is open 24/7, as it is a public roadway. However, driving across it is best done during daylight hours for optimal views and safety. :sunriseovermountains:
There is no specific entrance fee for the Laguna Garzón area itself. The bridge is free to cross, and access to the surrounding natural areas is generally open. :moneywithwings:
While there are pedestrian walkways, stopping your vehicle on the bridge itself is not recommended for safety and traffic flow reasons. Pull over to designated areas if you wish to stop and take photos. :noentrysign:
The bridge has sidewalks that can accommodate pedestrians and cyclists. Accessibility for vehicles is standard for a road bridge. :wheelchair:
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are from the bridge itself, looking out at the lagoon, or from viewpoints along the coast approaching the bridge. Aerial shots are particularly stunning. :camerawithflash:
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography, casting a warm glow over the lagoon and bridge. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views. :city_sunrise:
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone, as the area is ecologically sensitive. :drone:
Focus on the unique circular shape, the contrast between the modern bridge and the natural lagoon, and the panoramic coastal views. :landscape:
Yes, the pedestrian walkways offer safe and excellent vantage points for capturing photos of the bridge and the surrounding scenery. :camera:
🎫 💡 Interesting Facts
The circular design by Rafael Viñoly Architects was intended to slow down traffic, allowing drivers to appreciate the panoramic views of the ecologically protected lagoon and to reduce the impact on the environment. :earth_americas:
The Laguna Garzón Bridge was inaugurated on December 22, 2015. :calendar:
The bridge was designed by the renowned Uruguayan architect Rafael Viñoly. :architect:
It replaced a small, two-vehicle ferry that operated only during daylight and good weather conditions, significantly improving connectivity. :ferry:
Approximately 1,000 vehicles cross the Laguna Garzón Bridge daily, highlighting its importance as a transportation link. :car_rental:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider making a stop at one of the nearby beaches after crossing the bridge for a full day of family fun. The drive itself along Route 10 is scenic, offering plenty of opportunities to point out interesting sights to younger travelers. The novelty of the bridge's shape is often a highlight for children, making it a memorable part of any Uruguayan road trip. :family_mm:
🚗 Road Trippers & Scenic Drivers
Embrace the design by driving slowly and enjoying the panoramic vistas. The bridge effectively connects the popular tourist hubs of Maldonado and Rocha, making it a logical and rewarding stop. Be prepared for potential traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons, but the experience of crossing this architectural marvel is well worth it. :roadtonowhere:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Marvel: A Circular Design
The construction itself is an engineering feat, featuring 16 circular concrete pillars spaced 20 meters apart, supporting a 202-meter diameter ring. This design allows for ships to pass underneath, maintaining navigation capabilities. The bridge also incorporates pedestrian and cyclist access via inner and outer sidewalks, making it a multi-modal structure. Its inauguration in December 2015 marked a significant improvement in connectivity between the Maldonado and Rocha counties, replacing a less reliable ferry system.
While celebrated for its design, some discussions point out the environmental trade-offs. The longer route across the circular bridge, compared to a straight one, leads to increased fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. However, the intention behind the design was to foster a deeper connection with the landscape and promote a more mindful journey.
Experiencing Laguna Garzón: Beyond the Bridge
While the bridge is the main attraction, the surrounding areas offer opportunities for relaxation and enjoying the coastal environment. Beaches are a popular draw, and the drive along Route 10 provides scenic vistas. For those interested in the architectural aspect, understanding Viñoly's intent behind the circular design adds another layer to the experience. It's a place where engineering meets nature, prompting reflection on how human structures can coexist with delicate ecosystems.
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