LAKE PONTCHARTRAIN CAUSEWAY BRIDGE

A trip north of New Orleans over the Lake Ponchartrain Causeway is unforgettable and for good reason, this bridge is one of the longest in the world: 38 kilometers in one stretch! Tens of thousands of vehicles cross it daily. Opened in 1956, this gigantic bridge consists of two lanes, separated by water and 25 meters apart. Access to the bridge is not free in the direction of New Orleans and requires the prior purchase of a pass (sticker) to be stuck on the windshield, controlled when passing through the automatic toll gates (it is also possible to pay cash on the spot, but it is necessary to avoid the "Tag only" lanes which are reserved for the holders of a sticker).

After a few kilometers, when you find yourself in the middle of the bridge, you have the impression of being in the middle of the sea on this immense lake of about 1,630 square kilometers. Along its length, the bridge rises several meters to allow large trawlers or tankers to pass; get your camera ready when you reach the highest point, you will have an unforgettable view of this great spire that gradually fades into the horizon. It is only possible to turn around on the bridge at certain well-marked points. A special police force watches over it at all times and the speed limit is 65 mph, or 105 km/h. In short, if you have the opportunity, the crossing is really worth it, in both directions!