angouleme tours car

Brittany Ferries also available; please contact reservations.

All prices do not include entrance or grandstand tickets.

General Entrance & Paddock: £45

General Entrance, Paddock & Fangio Grandstand: £59

General Entrance, Paddock & Wilson, Theatre, Carnot or Cathedral Grandstands: £65

Free for children under 14 years.

£20 supplement for ticket only bookings.

© On Site Events 2023. All image rights and trademarks remain the property of their respective owners and are reproduced with their kind permission. Click here for full terms of conditions of use of this site and bookings. Company Reg 05066204

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• [email protected]

Angouleme Circuit des Remparts Tour

The Dordogne and Angouleme

Classic car tours international.

The main tour starts with an afternoon ferry from Portsmouth to Ouistreham/Caen followed by an overnight stay in Ouistreham. Our route the next day takes us via the Pegasus bridge and Sees our morning coffee stop to our lunch stop in Arnages then onto Le Mans where we visit the 24 hours museum. We then continue to our hotel in the Loire Valley.

On the second day we take a scenic route south to the Dordogne via the Vienne valley where we enjoy lunch in Angles sur l’Anglin, one of France’s most beautiful villages. After lunch we continue south to the Dordogne where our charming hotel for the next 4 nights is in the medieval village of Bourdeilles, just 5 miles down river from Brantome, one of France’s prettiest towns.

On Friday morning we relax and explore the local area with an opportunity in the afternoon to drive up to Angouleme to visit the Concours d’Elegance. On Saturday we visit Brantome and then drive to nearby Champagnac de Belair where we treat you to a wonderful gourmet lunch in the Moulin du Roc a stunning Michelin * restaurant and converted 16th century water mill that never fails to impress. After lunch we drive to Angouleme to watch the preparation for Sundays street race which uses the same circuit along the old streets of this walled town that it did in 1939 when the ‚’Circuit des Remparts’ first started.

We also drive a couple of laps around the circuit on Saturday afternoon, view the grandstand seating arrangements and visit the paddock to look at the cars. we then return to our hotel. Early on Sunday morning we drive up to Angouleme to watch the exciting and nostalgic races in the historical town circuit. Tonight there is a celebratory dinner in our hotel. On Monday participants return back to Caen for the afternoon ferry to Portsmouth.

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Charente Maritime cottages, France

Luxury Holiday Cottages and B & B Classic Car Tours & Morgan Classic Car Hire Charente, Maritime, SW France

CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS, ANGOULEME

Thursday 12th September 2024 for 7 nights

Since 2005 we have been organising our annual "Circuit des Remparts Special" tour to attend the famous Circuit des Remparts classic race meeting at Angouleme.  A must for classic car enthusiasts.

Join us on 12th September 2024 for 7 nights to explore the delights of the Charente Maritime and in particular, the excitement of the  historic Circuit des Remparts classic car race held in Angouleme, when the town fills with racing enthusiasts for the annual gathering of vintage and classic cars. Modern safety equipment has replaced the hay bales and wooden fences but otherwise the circuit remains unchanged since the first race in 1939.

 Arrive on  Thursday  afternoon to welcome tea/coffee and home made cakes. In the evening enjoy aperitifs and a welcome 4 course dinner with wine, coffee & Cognac served in the Manor House. 

Friday , take time out to enjoy a guided tour of the Chateau and Cognac  tasting at Baron Otard before exploring  the town of Cognac. In the evening  drive into Angouleme to watch the Concours d'Elegance - the cars gather in the centre of town for the judging of both the cars and their occupants, dressed in style. Choose from a great variety restaurants for dinner. 

On  Saturday  morning, we return to Angouleme to join the 200 km Rallye. About 300 classic cars enter this rally and tour the Charente countryside along roads lined with cheering bystanders. The route takes you past castles and manor houses, through century old forests and vineyards bordering the river Charente with checkpoints and refreshment stops along the way, and a gourmet lunch is included.

Sunday , the highlight of the weekend.  We take a scenic run to Angouleme, (just  40 minutes drive away), to experience the excitement of this historic road race when the whole town becomes one enormous classic car meet with displays of classic cars. Tour the paddocks and watch the racing from your reserved seat in the Grandstands. Car Parking is reserved in the centre of town and at mid day join us in a traditional French Bistro, so that you enjoy lunch and then return to your Grandstand seat in time for the racing.

Monday  morning, a private tour of Chateau Chesnel has been organised, when the resident owner, the Comtesse du Rouffignac, will give you a guided tour of her beautiful home, followed by a Cognac & Pineau tasting. Then return to La Rose des Vents, to join local classic car enthusiasts  for our  traditional  4 course lunch with apertifs and wine served in the garden. 

The rest of the week is free for you explore the area – a range of prepared scenic runs are available to explore this beautiful area, and Cognac, Saintes, La Rochelle, Il de Re, Royan and Bordeaux are all within easy reach.

MANOR COTTAGE and ROSE COTTAGE are fully equipped for self catering, so you can enjoy local delicacies bought in the local shops and markets, or sample the excellent local restaurants on the three days when an evening meal/lunch is not included.

If your group comprises more than 4 couples, additional accommodation is available in the MANOR HOUSE , and we also have links with other luxury cottages, within 5 minutes' drive where additional accommodation can be arranged.

Availability & Booking

Click below to check availability and make a booking request.

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15th September 2024

The 2024 Circuit des Remparts annual classic car race, weekend-long events see classic cars hurtling around the ancient, twisting roads of the pretty hill-top town of Angoulême. The Circuit des Remparts is a highlight in any historic racing enthusiast’s diary!

Itinerary Options

Circuit Des Remparts Angouleme 2024 Itinerary & Prices

Thursday 12th September Drive through the beautiful towns of France to Angouleme. Accommodation can be reserved for you along the route on request. Alternatively, we can reserve an additional night for you at your hotel in Angouleme.

Friday 13th September

Check into your hotel, where accommodation is reserved for you for 3 or 4 nights on a bed-and-breakfast basis. Parking is available locally to the hotel. Please ask our team members for the recommended parking locations and any further information. Join other motorsports fans today to watch the Concours d’Elegance. This is the traditional opening of the Charentais automobile weekend where the cars gather in the centre of town to be judged for their condition and authenticity. The stunning classic cars arrive from all over the world for this amazing spectacle. You can also head to the prize-giving ceremony on Friday evening and admission is free. Parking is available locally to the hotel. Please ask our team members for the recommended parking locations and any further information.

Saturday 14th September Today is the Angouleme International Rally. Over 150 cars drive through the beautiful scenic towns before finishing at the Champ de Mars. Entry to the rally can be added as a supplement. Please note, that not all classic cars are eligible – please check with a member of staff. Alternatively, the day is free to enjoy as you wish.

Sunday 15th September The most exciting day! Enjoy the historic race, full of classic cars.

Monday 16th September After a leisurely breakfast, check out of the hotel and make your way to Caen for your return ferry back to Portsmouth at 4 p.m. Reserved seating is included in your package. You will arrive back in the UK at approx. 9.30 pm.

If you wish to alter your crossings or reserve additional accommodation for your trip, please ask a member of the team as this can be done for you on request.

*2024 prices are per person based on two people sharing.

**Parking is subject to availability

The above is a sample itinerary but if you would like to extend your stay or for us to arrange alternative Channel crossings please do let us know and we would be happy to do so.

To discuss your ideal circuit des remparts angouleme 2024 itinerary holiday, call us on 0116 231 1222 or email us at  (function(){var ml="grpcmu.onftskiad%04",mi="=897@ba01>8;:>847:71;271:;63765 *protected email* ., hotel options.

Ibis Nord Angouleme Hotel ★★★☆☆

Located in Champniers, this Ibis Hotel is just a 5-minute drive from Angouleme town center in the Charente region and a 10-minute drive to the Angoulême circuit. The hotel is conveniently located with array of restaurants and shops around.

Européen Hotel ★★★☆☆

The Européen Hôtel Citotel is situated in the heart of Angoulême.  The hotel is conveniently located in the city centre of Angoulême, just 400 metres from the SNCF train station and 300 meters from the old town with its array of restaurants and shops. It’s only a 10-minute walk from the Angoulême circuit.

Hotel Ibis Angoulême ★★☆☆☆

This hotel is set in the centre of Angoulême, just 200 metres from the train station and the old town area. Angoulême Cathedral is only a 10-minute walk away and you can easily walk to the circuit too. It is only a 10-minute walk to the grandstands.

Race Tickets & Circuit

Optional Extras

The Saturday Drivers Rallies

• 1 Rallye Plaque / 1 Roadbook
• 2 Breakfasts
• Morning and Afternoon breaks
• 1 Welcome pack
• 1 Official Lithograph

These prices are for 1 x car with 2 x people.

Additional drivers cost is £115.

What's included?

• Overnight Ferry from Portsmouth to St Malo
• 3 or 4 nights accommodation in Angouleme on a B&B basis
• Weekend admission tickets.
• Inbound Ferry from Caen to Portsmouth
• Grandstand Motor Sports Representative on hand to assist

Alternative ferry crossings available

Race Date: 15 September 2024

Price from: £599

Click here to buy gift vouchers for this event.

Planning ahead?

Register your interest in this event for the upcoming season. As soon as dates are confirmed & packages become available we will contact you with full information.

Upcoming Races

12 May 2024 Classic & Historic Monaco

19 May 2024 Classic & Historic Belgium

Grand Prix de l’Age d’Or

9 June 2024 Classic & Historic France

11 June 2024 Classic & Historic Italy

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Things to Do in Angoulême (France)

15 Best Things to Do in Angoulême (France)

Balanced on a rocky ridge above the Charente River, Angoulême is a stone-built city made all the more beautiful by its vertiginous slopes. The old walls that once barricaded the upper town were pulled down in the 1700s to form terrace paths and boulevards blessed with distant views of the Charente and the Anguinne Valleys.

And if you happen to be a comic book fan, the city will be right up your alley: In January you can come for the second-largest comic festival in Europe, where international masters of the art-form have given talks and accepted awards. And the rest of the time there’s a centre with a museum for comics and graphic novels, and outdoor murals all around Angoulême by some of France and Belgium’s best-loved artists.

Lets explore the best things to do in Angoulême :

1. Angoulême Cathedral

Sitting high on a terrace with wide open views across the Anguienne Valley the cathedral was begun at the start of the 12th century and the initial work was finished less than 20 years later.

At the entrance you’ll want to take a step back to behold the richness of the sculpture on this western facade.

There are more than 70 sculptures and reliefs vying for your attention, but if you look at the upper central portion, above the window you can make out an unusual image of the Ascension of Christ, with Jesus appearing in the midst of the clouds.

2. Musée d’Angoulême

In the Episcopal palace right next to the cathedral is the exceptional museum that recounts several thousand years of the Angoulême area’s history.

So on the ground floor you’ll peruse artefacts like the grisly but riveting severed skull of a Bronze Age woman or the awesome Agris Helmet that was found in a cave in the Charente Basin and held as a masterwork of Gallic Celtic art, dating back 2,500 years.

On the first floor are the museum’s Oceanic and African primitive art collection, numbering more than 3,000 pieces and donated by a leading anthropologist in the 1930s.

And then on the top floor you can study painting and sculpture from the French, Dutch and Flemish schools.

3. Upper Town

While exploring the highest and oldest neighbourhood in Angoulême it’s interesting to see the contrast between the northern and southern areas.

The northern part has a tangle of narrow cobblestone streets hemmed by exquisite stone mansions and more rustic houses with wooden shutters.

To the south though, at spots like Avenue Georges Clemenceau, you’ll notice where the ramparts and compact street system were removed in favour of straight tree-lined roads demonstrating the splendour of 18th and 19th urban design in France.

Both areas are superb for sightseeing on foot.

4. Angoulême International Comics Festival

At the end of January every year the third-largest comic festival in the world pulls in hundreds of thousands of visitors to the city.

Stores around the city open their doors for the event, which has been going since 1974 and builds up to an awards ceremony in which a list of prizes like comic of the year and the Grand Prix for lifetime achievement are handed out.

This has been won by Mœbius, Hergé and other luminaries.

If you’re a comic or graphic novel aficionado you can stock up on some new titles and attend Q&As with international stars of the art-form.

And if you’re an artist yourself you can come for some inspiration and a bit of networking.

5. Musée de la Bande Dessinée

The big events during the festival happen at the Cité Internationale de la Bande Dessinée et de l’Image, a big complex that has a library, cinema and a congress centre.

But for the rest of the year you can come for the Comic Museum (Musée de la Bande Dessinée). There are retrospectives for a host of international artists, from Charles M. Schulz to Hergé, as well as some depth about the French trailblazers like Goscinny and Uderzo who created Asterix and also DC and Marvel.

The museum goes into detail about the technical aspects of composing comics and graphic novels, the different kind of art and lettering and uncovers the history and origins of the art-form.

6. The Ramparts

The upper town was surrounded by walls from the days of the Roman Empire, and these were expanded and modified over the next 1,500 years.

The last changes were made in the 1600s, but once the defences became obsolete in the 1700s the walls and gates were pulled down to allow Angoulême to expand along boulevards.

What is left are scenic terraces with paths and gardens.

The Rempart de Bieulieu was the first to be adapted into a walkway and has cast-iron gas lights every few steps and astounding panoramas of the Charente.

7. Paper Museum

Papermaking was big business in the Charente Valley because of the outstanding water purity, and a piece of this history is maintained at a former mill on a river island.

This facility shut down in the 1970s and had been running since 1887. Nothing was removed when it closed, so you can check out a lot of old industrial machinery, including the working water wheels powered by the river.

This factory churned out cigarette paper and has even kept the rollers that created the watermarks on each sheet.

There are broader exhibits about the story of industrial papermaking in the 19th and 20th centuries, with documents, first-hand accounts and black and white photography.

8. Hôtel de Ville

When you’re exploring the upper town on the rocky promontory you’ll appreciate how difficult it would have been to conquer this place.

What made things a lot harder for attackers was the Château d’Angoulême, a fearsome castle that is now incorporated into the city’s town hall.

The remaining buildings from the medieval period are the keep and polygonal tower, from the 12th and 13th centuries.

The tower is claimed to be the birthplace of Marguerite de Navarre, the sister of King Francis I. In the middle of the 19th century Paul Abadie, best known for renovating the Notre Dame in Paris, helped turn the site into the town hall.

9. Circuit des Remparts

In mid-September the streets of the upper town turn into a race track to commemorate a legendary post-war event.

In the 40s and early-50s the Circuit des Remparts was a Grand Prix tearing through Angoulême and driven by the most famous names of the era like Juan Manuel Fangio, Raymond Sommer and Maurice Trintingant.

The course was very quick with three hairpin turns, but didn’t last long as an official race.

In 1983 the event was revived as a heritage race with vintage Bugattis, Ferraris and Jaguars, and uses the exact same course as in the halcyon days after the war.

Fans of classic cars and motor sport won’t want to miss this weekend of nostalgic racing action.

10. Église Saint-André

In the 1860s Paul Abadie also had a hand in the renovation of this church, which was worse for wear after centuries of turbulence in which it was damaged by the Hundred Years’ War, French Wars of Religion and the Revolution.

This has left Saint-André with an eclectic mixture of styles, but a lot of the oldest parts are still visible inside.

The arches in the narthex (near the entrance) are Romanesque, having been completed in the 1100s, while there’s a lot of beautiful old furnishings to see.

The pulpit and altar date to the 1600s and there’s a large set of Renaissance and Baroque paintings.

11. Street Murals

Angoulême decided to harness its reputation for comics and illustration by commissioning 20 murals on the sides of buildings around the city.

Painted by artists like François Walthéry and Florence Cestac,  these images permeate every neighbourhood and are labelled on a special trail that you can download.

The project has been going for nigh-on 20 years, and every addition is a big event.

But the first mural went up much earlier in 1982 on Bouelvard Jean Moulin.

This one depicts everybody’s favourite comic characters, from Batman to Tintin and Lucky Luke, and was what inspired the city to commission more.

12. River Activities

When the weather’s good the Charente River starts to look pretty tempting, and there are a few ways of enjoying the waterway as it meanders below Angoulême’s promontory and through unblemished farmland.

Canoeing is always a family favourite, and there are a few hire companies competing for your business in the city.

If you go upriver you’ll soon arrive at the Baignade Vindelle, a supervised natural pool in the river.

This spot is particularly inviting, with banks shaded by vegetation and a handful of activities for kids to get involved with.

And if you’d prefer to stay dry you’ll also be able to hire your own motorboat for up to three hours, going wherever you please.

13. Chapelle des Cordeliers

Now attached to a retirement home, this chapel used to be the church of the Convent of the Cordeliers.

The building took shape when the order settled in Angoulême in the 13th century, and there are traces of the original cloister remaining.

In the nave is the tomb of Jean-Louis Guez de Balzac the 17th-century libertine and author whose satirical essays caused a stir in contemporary French society.

As for the interior decoration, there are tapestries and paintings from the 1600s and 1700s, as well as very old chest of drawers and bronze bowl on display.

Not far west of Angoulême is the town of Cognac, which you don’t need telling is the home of the highly distinguished variety of brandy.

All the world-renowned houses like Martell, Courvoisier, Rémy Martin and Hennessy are here and only too happy to show you around and talk you through their stories.

Martell for instance has been distilling Cognac for more than 30 years now.

On a typical visit you’ll take a tour of the vineyard, go into the distillery and peruse memorabilia in the brand’s museum.

And let’s not forget the tasting session, which can include two or more varieties and usually comes with a little something to eat.

15. Cuisine

As is the case in a lot of western France there are quite a few pig farms scattered around the Charentais region.

In the past many families would have their own pig, which would provide food for several months.

So lots of recipes like boudin à la viande (blood pudding) and grillon (pork pâté) hark back to this time.

The city’s covered market is where to go to discover and buy the best local food.

The building is a stunning late-19th-century metal and glass structure built where a castle-turned-prison used to stand.

If you’re on the hunt for something to take home as a gift there’s a clutch of independent chocolateries and the Biscuiterie Lolmede is cherished for its macaroons, flavoured with pistachio or cognac.

15 Best Things to Do in Angoulême (France):

• Angoulême Cathedral
• Musée d'Angoulême
• Angoulême International Comics Festival
• Musée de la Bande Dessinée
• The Ramparts
• Paper Museum
• Hôtel de Ville
• Circuit des Remparts
• Église Saint-André
• Street Murals
• River Activities
• Chapelle des Cordeliers

The Good Life France

Everything You Want to Know About France and More...

Classic Car Holidays and Tours in France

• Tours in France

The traffic-free roads of southwest France could have been designed with classic car road trips in mind. Stunning scenery, picturesque villages, hill top towns and dramatic coastal routes, perfect for classic car drivers.

When classic car devotees Lyn and Graham Peek from the UK were looking for a home in France, they knew, as soon as they arrived in the Charente-Maritime, that this was the ideal place for them to enjoy their treasured Morgans. They bought and restored La Rose des Vents, a beautiful former Cognac domaine and opened two holiday cottages and a B&B in this most beautiful part of France, which boasts the most days of sun after the far south. Lyn, former Centre Secretary to the Morgan Sports Car Club UK, felt this area was too good to keep to themselves. The couple set up Cottages and Classics. For almost 15 years, they’ve have been organising classic car tours and holidays. They share their expert local knowledge and passion for classic cars with guests from around the world. Knowing the pros and cons (lack of luggage space for instance!) has helped them create classic car tours and bespoke packages that are simply the best.

Classic car holidays in France

Your luxury accommodation in the cottages and Manor House includes delicious breakfasts and dinners. There’s also a heated swimming pool, secure parking in gated grounds and the use of a garage and tools, if required: “it can happen!” says Lyn.

Groups of friends traveling in 3-12 cars can also book a classic car tour and enjoy a relaxed house party style vibe at La Rose des Vents. If the group is bigger, there’s an option for additional luxury accommodation within a few minutes’ drive.

“We share all the best driving roads to take you off the beaten track. Wind your way through rolling vineyards and fields of sunflowers to unspoilt villages in the Charente, Charente Maritime and neighbouring Dordogne and Bordeaux regions. Enjoy local classic car events, places of interest and fabulous restaurants. And, don’t forget, this is Cognac country, so if you’re a fan, there are loads of distilleries and producers you can visit” says Lyn.

Whether you’re looking for a short stopover on your classic car tour through France or a week long stay or more, Cottages & Classics offers relaxing self-catering breaks as well as B&B stays. “We’ve taken many classic car road trips in France. We know what it’s like to have minimal space for luggage so we supply everything you need. You don’t have to bring hairdryers, pool towers, picnic rugs, cool boxes for picnic/food shopping. It’s all here”.

Classic car tours in France

For a brilliant classic car road trip, Cottages & Classics can organise a bespoke tour based on your groups requirements. They’ll provide a detailed itinerary, including roadbook, entry tickets, reserved parking, restaurant meals and guided tours. You just choose the dates – they will do the rest.

They also have a selection of “Signature Tours” such as a classic tour of the Charente-Maritime, taking in the lovely coastal city of La Rochelle and the beautiful Ile de Re , historic Brantome and Aubeterre, officially one of the prettiest villages in France. It also includes the historic naval centre at Rochefort, medieval Pons, the bastide of Talmont, and the Atlantic coast at Royan plus a guided tour and tasting at Hennessy or Baron Otard in Cognac.

Each September Cottages & Classics organise a “ Circuit des Remparts Angouleme Special”. The famous classic car race lures thousands to enjoy this colourful and historic event. Join in the 200km Charente rally, cheer on the racing and attend the annual local classic car enthusiasts garden party lunch.

There are also tours that focus on chateaux and vineyards, or treasures of the south west including Bordeaux and deserted roads through vineyards and coastal routes of the Atlantic beaches.

And, if you want to explore the area in a classic car but don’t have one of your own, there are two classic Morgans for hire: a 1992 4/4(1600 cc) 4 seater finished in traditional British Racing Green with matching leather interior. Or 2015 +4 (2 litre) 4 seater finished in Sport White with Cognac leather interior and walnut dashboard.

Pack your sunglasses, hats, head scarves, picnic hamper and rugs, and explore the gorgeous south west of France… you’re guaranteed to feel like a ‘50s film star!

If you’re looking for the best classic car tours in France – contact Lyn at: cottagesandclassics.com

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Join us in for the biggest classic car pilgrimage to Europe and be a part of the popular Circuit Historique de Laon, the largest and most popular event of its kind in Europe with over 700 cars attending this event every year.

JEC Club Tours

Call us to discuss your  next driving tour, 01732 879153, open monday to friday 9am to 5pm .

Post-Angouleme tour to

The dordogne.

Extend your stay in France and enjoy a few days in the Dordogne, with its rich food, captivating history, château-studded countryside and picturesque villages. It’s also famous for having some of France’s finest prehistoric cave art, which fill the caverns and rock shelters of the Vézère Valley.

Today it’s known to the French as the Périgord, and is divided into four colour-coded areas: Périgord Pourpre (purple) for the winegrowing regions around Bergerac; Périgord Noir (black) for the dark oak forests around the Vézère Valley and Sarlat-la-Canéda; Périgord Blanc (white) after the limestone hills around the capital, Périgueux; and Périgord Vert (green) for the forested regions of the north.

Vézac  is home to one of the world’s most magnificent landscapes, the famed overhanging  gardens of marqueyssac.  there is also  rocamadour, perched half-way up a vertical cliff, which is a spectacular setting with a world famous appeal.  the town of  domme  is one of the best preserved medieval bastide towns with wonderful views over the dordogne river. take a traditional flat-bottomed boat trip from  la roque gageac  and admire the châteaux of de castelnaud, the château de marqueyssac, the château de lacoste and the château de la malartrie from the unique vantage point of the river..

Post-Angoulême Dordogne  Tour Itinerary

After enjoying the racing at Angoulême, why not extend your stay and spend a few days in the Dordogne.

Look What’s Included

• 5 Nights at the Hotel La Hoirie, Sarlat la Canéda

• Breakfast each day & dinners as meal basis below

• Roa d Book featuring Maps, Great Drives & Local Attractions

• Commemorative Tour Rally Plate

• C ar Parking at hotel

All of the hotels on this tour have been hand-picked for their quality, facilities and location

Dates & Prices

Post-Angoulême Dordogne Tour

*Please note: All prices shown above are per person and based on 2 persons sharing a car and a twin/double room Meal Basis  -​ Breakfast each day & 2 Dinners  Single Occupancy Supplement - £150.00

Other classic & historic motorsport tours include.

MONACO HISTORIQUE GRAND PRIX

9 Days, 8 Nights - May 

PAU HISTORIQUE GP & THE PYRENEES

10 or 9 Days - May

LAON HISTORIQUE PILGRIMAGE

4 Days, 3 Nights - May

CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS D'ANGOULEME

11th to 16th SEPTEMBER 2024

Angoulême is a true spectacle for fans of classic cars, historic motorsport, street circuits and rallies.

The whole weekend is packed with events starting with a Concours d’Elegance, a rally through the Cognac vineyards, a gala buffet in the impressive covered market and of course the racing on the city’s Remparts.

We are pleased to continue in our capacity as the official UK based tour operator for the event. Not only does this give us access to the best tickets but also high-quality rooms at the best hotel in town and our exclusive hospitality marquee conveniently located just outside the race paddock.

This 6-day driving tour includes return ferries, accommodation at the Hotel de France, as well as Angoulême and includes hospitality, entry and grandstand tickets as well as entry to the tour on Saturday and the gala dinner on Saturday evening.

DAY 1 - PORTSMOUTH TO ST MALO

The tour begins in Portsmouth where we will meet for the 20:30hrs sailing overnight to St Malo. As we congregate in the private lounge on board, you may get to know your fellow rally companions. This evening both your on board accommodation and dinner with wine is included.

DAY 2 - ST MALO TO LA CHARTRE SUR-LE-LOIR

Our ferry docks into St Malo on Thursday morning. Once disembarked, we will head towards the Hotel de France, en route we will stop for lunch on the banks of the Mayenne at Beau Rivage.

After lunch we will then take a boat cruise along the Mayenne River to discover more about this amazing but little-known area of France, learning more about the countryside, villages, Abbeys, watermills and Chateaus.

DAY 3 - LA CHARTRE-SUR-LE-LOIR TO ANGOULEME

After a traditional French breakfast at the hotel, we have a picturesque drive down past Tours and through the Vienne valley with a suggested coffee stop in one of the region’s prettiest villages.

We will enjoy a gourmet lunch on the stunning panoramic terrace at Table du Golf in Domaine du Lac de Saint- Cyr before beginning the final part of the journey to Angoulême.

Having put the cars to bed for the evening in the secure underground car park and checked into your hotel room we will distribute your rally packs and tickets over a private drinks reception. This evening is free for you to familiarise yourself with the town and visit the Concours d’Elegance where you can expect to see an exhibition of vintage and classic cars.

DAY 4 - ANGOULEME RALLY

This morning the scenic rally (for eligible cars*) departs on some extremely fine roads surrounding Angoulême. There are checkpoint/refreshment points along the way and an excellent 4-course lunch taken at a surprise location. This evening you have tickets for the competitors’ gala buffet in the covered market.

Classic Grand Touring have their own private area in the market where you will enjoy free flowing wine and the best of French artisan cuisine accompanied by live music entertainment.

*Eligible cars are usually deemed special either by their rarity or age. If you’re unsure about your car, please feel free to ask. Previous years have seen CGT customers accepted from all ages and marques.

DAY 5 - ANGOULEME RACE DAY

Today the historic racing begins! Practice and qualifying take place on the circuit during the morning sessions. We have an exclusive hospitality tent for Classic GT guests to use at your leisure throughout the day serving light refreshments and an area to relax.

Your race tickets will provide access to the paddock and a numbered seat in the Cathedral grandstand on the start-finish straight with a big screen, so you do not miss any of the action. This evening we have organised a farewell dinner at the Mercure Hotel with a surprise prize giving.

DAY 6 - ANGOULEME TO CAEN OUISTREHAM

Monday 16th September

After our final breakfast in Angoulême we travel back to the port in Caen for our 16:30hrs crossing back to Portsmouth. We can arrange a later sailing on the 23:00hrs from Caen if you prefer or alternative ferries to suit your plans should you wish to extend your trip. Please contact us for bespoke packages.

Hotel De France

Mercure Angouleme Hotel de France Hotel

WHAT IS INCLUDED

– Return sailings with Brittany Ferries with cabin accommodation on the outbound crossing. – One night at the Hotel de France. – Three nights at the Mercure Hotel in Angouleme. – Underground parking all weekend at the Mercure Hotel. – Dinner on four evenings including aboard the outbound ferry crossing. – River Cruise on the Loire River. – Lunch on three days including the Saturday rally. – Entry to Saturday Rally. – Entry to Saturday evening Gala Buffet. – Sunday race tickets, including paddock passes and seated grandstand. – Race day complimentary refreshments and snacks in the CGT marquee. – Tour Managers and Mechanical Support Vehicle throughout.

TOUR PRICES

per person based on two sharing accommodation

MORE INFORMATION

01926 675675.

Or click the button below

BOOK AND RESERVE YOUR PLACE

Booking your place on this event couldn’t be easier. The first step would be to click the “Enquire Now” button and complete the form, which gives us some basic details about yourself and your party.

We will then get in touch with you to confirm availability on the tour, we will send you a booking form to complete together with our deposit payment options so you can reserve your place on the tour.

As soon as the deposit has been processed we will send you a booking confirmation detailing what is included in your tour together with any extras you may have requested, your travel documents and the balance payment information.

You can secure a place on any of our tours, road trips or driving adventures with a deposit of just £500 per person. This can be paid by Stripe Online Payment, BACS transfer or by card over the phone if you prefer. There’s no need to worry about paying anything more until the final balance is due (usually around 8 weeks before we travel) and you’re welcome to pay your final before that date if preferred. On some of the bigger tours we do sometimes require an interim payment to make it a little easier to spread the cost, however, please note that if the event you wish to join is within the next 8 weeks, we will require the full payment to be made at the time of your booking.

Prefer to have a chat over the phone? Give us a call on 01926 675 675

MINIMUM NUMBERS

We have a minimum number of participants required for all of our events enabling them to be viable for us to run – this is usually 10 cars unless stated otherwise. In the event that we don’t reach the minimum numbers, the tour may be cancelled at which point your booking deposit will be refunded to you, or if preferred, allocated to another event of your choice.

YOU’RE PROTECTED

As with all of our tours and events, this tour is protected by ABTOT and ATOL. Click here for more information .

Grand Classic Tours was founded by Debbie Stott who has over 30 years extensive experience of Motorsport, Event, Exhibition and Project management, Hospitality, PR, Marketing, Travel and Automobile industries. Having worked with both Thomas Cook Sport / Airtrack and Grandstand Motor Sports, Debbie gained invaluable experience organising and leading tours to F1 and Classic events, along with running a Classic car club since 1993. Many years driving around Europe, often taking 60 cars or so on holiday with her, has enabled Debbie to find most of the “driver” roads allowing her now to recommend and suggest some of the best routes in Europe. Debbie has also worked on events with A1GP, Ford Motor Co., Toyota F1, John Cooper Works team, Pro Sportif, Honda hospitality / Speed Series, Lotus 7 club and RS Performance . With our knowledge and experience we can provide tours with unrivalled uniqueness and interest whatever your budget. Our aim is to get you close to Motorsport, history, remarkable roads, to experience the sheer joy of the open road. Whatever your passion is just mail or call us to discuss.

• Guided tour

Moscow: City Sightseeing by Car/Bus

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Visiting a new city is akin to going on a first date, it is something you will never forget. Many people imagine Moscow as just a bunch of sporadic landmarks: Red Square, the Kremlin, Lenin’s Mausoleum and GUM. There is so much more to this wonderful city than that and even though we only have a few hours, we will do all we can to show you everything we know and love about our capital in one fell swoop. We will take you on a journey through the ages, from centuries ago, right up to the modern day, soaking in the sights of this vast and bustling metropolis. Bright, luxurious and both ancient and modern at the same time, Moscow invites you on a date you’ll never forget!

On our sightseeing bus tour of the city, you will see:

• The wonderfully historic city centre and its unique museums, magnificent cathedrals, the exquisite Chambers of the Romanov Boyars and of course, the famous towering red brick walls of the Kremlin, The charming beauty of the Alexander Garden awaits the capital's guests - a lush green oasis in the midst of the glass and concrete clad metropolis, basking in the etherial aura emanating from the whitewashed stone walls of the restored Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the world- renowned fairytale onion domes of St. Basil's Cathedral and other impressive monumental buildings such as the library built in Lenin's honour - the Russian State Library - and the State Duma.
• The Lubyanka KGB headquarters is notorious to members of older generations and although nowadays, the face of the secret police has changed dramatically, the looming enigmatic building on the waterfront maintains its aura of mystery, shrouded in a variety of murky rumours and dark myths. Then, there’s another of Moscow's main attractions - the marvellous Bolshoi Theatre, yew simply cant leave Moscow without taking in its breathtaking architecture. Engrained in the fabric of Russia's cultural heritage, virtuoso performers such as prima ballerina Galina Ulanova, opera singer Feodor Chaliapin and pianist, composer and conductor Sergei Rachmaninoff once stood centre stage of this vaunted institution.
• The memorial complex on Poklonnaya Hill was constructed in the glory and honour of our heroes who defended our nation in the many crucial battles of the Great Patriotic War (WWII). This is a place that embodies a particularly acute and inextricable link between older ancf younger generations. Moving on to the Moscow International Business Centre, not dubbed ‘Moscow City' for nothing, a true glimpse of the future in the present. This incredible, rather jaw-dropping project in the capital has shown that Moscow has come to accept the age of the skyscraper. Finally, the stunning views from the observation deck at Sparrow Hills will leave professional and amateur photographers alike itching to capture them. How could one resist?

The most beautiful of all the world's cities - lady Moscow invites you out on a date!

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Meeting point We'll pick you up at your hotel

St. Basil's Cathedral

House on the Embankment

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Vorobyovy Hills

Poklonnaya Hill Poklonnaya Gora

Moscow-City

Alexander garden

Russian State Library

Bolshoi Theatre

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• Excursion Moscow: City Sightseeing by Car/Bus
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