Ferrari Experiences – The Perfect Way To Spend A Day Out In Spain
Nowadays it is possible to drive a Ferrari (and many other amazing supercars) at professional motor racing circuits all over Spain. Strong racing histories and excellent locations make el Jarama in Madrid and Montmeló near Barcelona popular choices among the circuits. However, as you will see later in this article, there are plenty of other jewels that are deserving of your attention!
The Circuit of Cataluña Montmeló
There’s no doubt about it, The Circuit Of Montmeló is the most famous circuit in Spain. It has played host to the Spanish Grand Prix since 1991 and recently the track has been used as a winter testing ground for F1 racing teams.
Unique challenges for the drivers include hard breaking sections, a mixture of fast and slow corners, and hair-raising combinations of slopes and climbs.
If you really want the experience of driving at a grand prix level circuit and to follow in the footsteps of some of the most famous F1 drivers in history, then Montmeló is definitely the best option.
Circuit of Jarama
Not far from Madrid, the circuit at Jarama also has a long and respectable racing history. Between 1967 and 1981 it has hosted the Spanish Grand Prix on eleven occasions with the likes of Nicki Lauda and Gilles Villenueve all winning F1 races here. With its different elevations and tight twisting corners, Jarama is considered one of the most demanding courses in Spain.
The 'Rampa Pegaso' and 'Bajada Bugati ' are famous names in Spanish motorsport and at Jarama you get to drive them yourself. To drive this circuit well, you`ll need to have a strong nerve, determination, and of course a little bit of skill won’t go amiss!
Circuit of Cheste
The circuit of Cheste was named after one of Valencia's most notable racing sons, motorcycling hero Ricardo Tormo. Cheste is a fast, exhilarating and memorable circuit and its moderate winter climate also makes it a valued testing ground for F1 teams.
Cheste offers a well balanced mixture of fast and slow curves as well as a long straight of 876 meters. It's renowned too for being one of Spain's few circuits that drive counterclockwise. You are guaranteed to have a driving experience that is both demanding and satisfying!
Circuit of Navarra
The track at Navarra near Los Arcos is Spain's newest and most modern motorsport venue, opening in 2010. It has already played host to some excellent events such as the Super League Formula. The on-site facilities are outstanding as you might expect from a modern, recently constructed track.
There are thirteen corners, five left and eight right, and the 800m straight offers the perfect opportunity to really accelerate like you mean it!
The circuit at Kotarr
In 2008, the circuit at Kotarr, near Burgosopened, and for the 1st time revealed its unique track design, which can take on numerous different layouts, in order to host different kinds of races and vehicles. Kotarr's other claim to fame has to do with it being the only racing track in Spain where it's possible to drive even when it is raining heavily or freezing.
The longest variation of the circuit consists of a good blend of fast and slow corners – 15 overall – and the layout allows for some enjoyable, aggressive driving. There are a number of challenging curves and long straights, prefect for putting the pedal to the metal.
The Circuit at Jerez.
One more track with an impressive history, the circuit at Jerez held the Spanish grand prix between 1986 and 1990. Since its introduction in 1985 it has earned a well deserved reputation as one of the premier circuits in the whole of Spain as well as one of the quickest.
With challenging corners such as the famous Sito Pons or Alex Crivillé, you will need plenty of nerve to navigate this wide and fast paced track. It is a comparatively flat circuit and has zero blind corners, and this makes it a firm favourite among the racers.
So why not book a few laps in your dream car the next time you are searching for some weekend thrills in Spain. Your own private Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche or even genuine F1 car can be booked via any one of many established online businesses.
So waht is it you are waiting for? Go ahead and choose your car, select your circuit and we’ll look out for you in the pit lane!
The writer is a life-long Ferrari and motor racing fan with a deep passion for test driving the the most incredible cars in the world. He runs the website conducirunferrari which provides online ideas and guidance for people who would like to drive a first class car at an authentic speed circuit, such as the Circuit of Catalonia, in Spain.
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