The Best Car Racing Resorts in the World
Speed, adrenaline, and luxury – the trifecta that defines the world’s top car racing resorts. These destinations aren’t just tracks; they’re experiences, blending the thrill of the race with the opulence of a vacation. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a fan with a penchant for luxury, these resorts offer a fusion of high-octane excitement and world-class amenities.
Ascari Race Resort – Spain
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Back in the early 2000s, while Ascari Cars was still in business, Zwart set about creating the ideal racetrack resort, a playground for his toys as well as paying members who were able to afford the $160,000 membership and $6,500 annual fee.
The facilities house Zwart’s personal car collection including, of course, an assortment of Ascari models ranging from the Ecosse to the A10, and a staggering collection of ex-F1 cars such as a 2004 Jaguar R5, two 1995 Ferrari 412s and a 1997 Benetton B197—piloted by Zwart himself to 3 championships in the EuroBOSS series, a competition for retired F1 cars.
It’s the longest circuit in Spain, comprised of 26 corners, many of which are built to resemble famous turns from other tracks around the world, like Eau Rogue at Spa and Copse at Silverstone. Membership might be beyond the means of the modest, but they do hold open club events from time to time; the circuit is known as a thorough challenge that should be tackled at least once should you have the chance.
Monticello Motor Club – USA
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This 4.1-mile circuit, situated in Monticello, New York, just over an hour’s drive from Manhattan, was a front-runner to host the annual US F1 race, now know as the Grand Prix of the Americas, but lost out to Austin, Texas in 2012. It is a private club, so unlike the Ascari Race Resort, non-members have no way to access the track or its facilities without the $125,000 membership fee and $7,500 annual minimum spend.
The circuit has 22 corners, designed jointly by racing driver Brian Redman, winner of the 1970 Targa Florio, and track architect and engineer Bruce Hawkins, who helped in the creation of Virginia International Raceway and New Jersey’s Thunderbolt Raceway. Notable members include Jerry Seinfeld, James Glickenhaus and Jeff Gordon.
Bilster Berg Drive Resort – Germany
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Opened in 2013 and modeled after resort-style tracks like Ascari in Spain and Goodwood in the UK, the Bilster Berg Drive Resort hosts a 2.61-mile circuit designed by F1 track designer Hermann Tilke, with input from rally legend Walter Röhrl. The resort is located in the town of Bad Driburg, a district in East Westphalia-Lippe, about 2 hours by car from Cologne.
There is no membership scheme, only shareholders are allowed access to the track and its facilities. Unfortunately, no slots are currently available, but during the initial offering each share was priced as €100,000 (US$134,000). Four large pit halls are available for rent as are smaller, lockable car storage units utilizing hydraulic lifts. The Eastern Loop Terrace houses many of tracks premier facilities including the “TURN One” restaurant; the clubhouse is located at the Western Loop.
Bilster Berg also houses Donkovervoort GmbH, a subsidiary of Donkervoort B.V., Dutch manufacturer of lightweight, Caterham-esque, hand-built vehicles.
