Looking for an adventurous day trip in Germany? Put on your walking shoes and head to the second-longest suspension bridge in the country. The 360-meter-long Geierlay Bridge takes you high above the Hunsrück valley with stunning views all around. In this guide we share all our tips, from parking and walking routes to visiting with kids and places to stay nearby.
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- What Is the Geierlay Bridge?
- How to Get to the Geierlay Bridge
- On the Geierlay Bridge: What to Expect
- Visiting the Geierlay Bridge With Kids
- Practical Tips for the Geierlay Bridge
- Other Sights Near the Geierlay Bridge
- Where to Stay Near the Geierlay Bridge
- Why You Should Visit the Geierlay Bridge (Even With Kids)
What Is the Geierlay Bridge?
The Hängeseilbrücke Geierlay is the second-longest suspension bridge in Germany, connecting the villages of Mörsdorf and Sosberg. Built in the style of Nepalese hanging bridges, it opened in 2015 and has since become a popular attraction. Expect some crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
Quick facts:
- Length: 360 meters
- Height: 100 meters above the ground
- Width: 85 cm
- Accessibility: suitable for children, dogs, strollers, bikes (walked across), and even wheelchairs on quieter days
If you’re afraid of heights, this might not be your thing. The bridge sways a little and hangs 100 meters above the valley. But it’s completely safe and fun for all ages.
How to Get to the Geierlay Bridge
Set your navigation to the village of Mörsdorf. A useful address is the visitor center: Kastellauner Strasse 23, 56290 Mörsdorf. From central Limburg it took us about 2.5 hours by car.
Parking at the Geierlay Bridge
You can’t park directly next to the bridge, so you’ll need to leave your car in Mörsdorf or Sosberg. There are four official parking lots, each with pros and cons:
- P1: €10 for 4 hours. Closest option, still a 1.8 km walk.
- P2: €8 for 4 hours, €18 for 24 hours (also good for camper vans). About 2 km to the bridge.
- P3: €6 for 4 hours, then €2 per extra hour. Slightly further away than P2.
- P4: free, but 3.3 km walk. Only fun if you’re up for a longer hike.
Our tip:
We parked at P2, which worked perfectly. From there it’s about a 20–30 minute walk.
Walking Routes to the Geierlay Bridge
There are two main routes from Mörsdorf:
- Short route (1,8 km):
A paved path, great for strollers or wheelchairs. Along the way you’ll find small playgrounds, perfect for kids to take a break. This is the easiest option. - Long route (6,6 km):
A hiking trail through the forest, going under the bridge and looping back. A beautiful route and fun with older kids, but not suitable for strollers.
👉 We accidentally took part of the long route with a buggy, and it was a disaster. After a steep uphill struggle we had to turn around. Later we realized the signs were actually pretty clear, but somehow we missed them.
On the Geierlay Bridge: What to Expect
You’ll know immediately when you’ve reached the right spot. We visited on a Friday and had the bridge almost to ourselves. Stroller parked at the side, kids by the hand, and off we went.
We only walked halfway across, stopping to take photos and videos. The views were incredible. The swaying made it extra exciting, but our kids loved every second.
You can cross all the way to the other side and continue walking, or simply head back the same way. Don’t forget to step off the path for a moment to watch the bridge from a distance, the view is just as impressive as being on it.
Visiting the Geierlay Bridge With Kids
So, is it kid-friendly? Absolutely. Our daughters thought it was one big adventure. The bridge shakes a little, but it’s safe and fun.
Good to know:
- Kids who like a bit of adventure will love it.
- The paved 1.8 km path makes the bridge accessible with strollers.
- Playgrounds along the way are great for quick stops.
- The bridge is narrow but safe. Hold your child’s hand if they’re still a bit wobbly on their feet.
Practical Tips for the Geierlay Bridge
- Opening hours: 24/7, all year round.
- Entry: free, only parking costs a few euros.
- Toilets: at the visitor center in Mörsdorf.
- Food & drinks: none at the bridge itself, so bring snacks and water.
- Best time to visit: early morning or weekdays for fewer crowds.
- Seasons: autumn with golden leaves or winter with mist makes the experience extra photogenic.
We ended our visit with pizza at Pascal’s Pizzastube in Mörsdorf. Simple but tasty, and exactly what we needed.
Other Sights Near the Geierlay Bridge
Combine your visit with more highlights in the region:
- Burg Eltz: a fairytale castle hidden in the forest.
- Cochem: charming town on the Mosel with terraces, wine, and a hilltop castle.
- Hunsrück hikes: endless trails through forests and valleys.
👉 Check out our full guides to Burg Eltz and Cochem.
Where to Stay Near the Geierlay Bridge
If you want to turn your visit into a weekend getaway, there are plenty of nice places to stay in the area. It’s easy to combine with a trip to Cochem or the Moselle valley.
We stayed in Cochem at Hotel Zehnthof and really liked it. It’s within walking distance of the old town, offers free parking and serves a generous German breakfast in the morning.
The Best Hotels & Accommodations Near the Geierlay Suspension Bridge
Hotel Zehnthof in Cochem
⭑⭑⭑ 8.6 on Booking.com
Family-friendly hotel right on the Mosel, with spacious rooms and a generous German breakfast. Perfect location to explore Cochem on foot.
👉 Check availability
Moselromantik Hotel Kessler Meyer in Cochem
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8.7 on Booking.com
A stylish wellness hotel overlooking the Mosel. Indoor pool, spa, and spacious rooms make it a great spot to unwind after your day trip.
👉 Check availability
Parkhotel Cochem in Cochem
⭑⭑⭑ 8.3 on Booking.com
Comfortable hotel within walking distance of shops and the Mosel promenade. Spacious rooms and good breakfast included.
👉 Check availability
Daslenz in Briedern
⭑⭑⭑⭑ 8.5 on Booking.com
Relaxed hotel right on the Mosel, with free parking and balconies overlooking the vineyards. A perfect base for cycling, hiking, or wine tasting.
👉 Check availability
Why You Should Visit the Geierlay Bridge (Even With Kids)
For us, this was a surprisingly fun adventure so close to home. Exciting, beautiful views, and a unique experience to share with the kids. The Geierlay Bridge wasn’t the only highlight of our weekend, but it was definitely one to remember. Curious what else we did? Don’t miss our tips for Burg Eltz and Cochem.
Plan Your Trip to the Geierlay Bridge
Where to Stay Near the Geierlay Suspension Bridge
Check the best accommodations on Booking.com
Tours and Activities in the Moselle Region
Make your trip complete with a river cruise, wine tour, or day trip on GetYourGuide
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