Outings and excursions · La Barra / José Ignacio
The wave bridge of La Barra
Photos: Axe / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Riding up and down its curves is a summer classic: the Leonel Viera bridge over the Maldonado stream is one of the icons of the east.
Between Punta del Este and La Barra, the Maldonado stream is crossed by one of the country's most famous bridges: the Leonel Viera bridge, known to all as the wave bridge or the La Barra bridge.
Its history
It opened in 1965, designed by Leonel Viera, who never finished his engineering degree and created a bridge unique for its shape. In 1999 it was decided to double it to ease traffic: the second bridge, finished in 2000, keeps the same waves. It has borne its creator's name since 1975, as a posthumous tribute.
What to do
- Cross it by car or on foot and feel its ups and downs.
- Watch the sunset over the stream from the La Barra shore.
- Continue along the coast to José Ignacio.
Tips
- In January, queues form at certain times: plan your crossings.
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