THE BELGIAN GRAND PRIX
Spa-francorchamps, Belgium, 24-26 August 2018
WHY VISIT?
For British fans, the Belgian Grand Prix is the easiest overseas race to visit on the calendar, since it enjoys hassle-free connections via the Eurostar and is a relaxed three-and-half hour drive from the port and rail terminals at Calais.
The venue for the race is the famous Spafrancorchamps circuit, curving, sweeping and diving through the Ardennes forest in the Hautes Fagnes (High Fens) area of Belgium. Since the region is notorious for its weather – clear skies can swell with dark clouds depositing torrential rain in minutes – the phrase ‘fickle Ardennes’ has become a captive epithet that often defines the outcome of this event.
Belgium’s central location and proliferation of transport links ensures a cosmopolitan atmosphere at the GP. You’ll find representatives of many neighbouring nationalities flocking to this race to support their drivers – particularly Max Verstappen, who has attracted a boisterous contingent that grows year on year.
It’s also worth stopping by Brussels while you’re in the country. The capital of Belgium is renowned for its beer and chocolate, and boasts an impressive 90 museums, plus picturesque parks and stunning architecture.
WHAT TO SEE Grand-place, Brussels
Once described by the French poet Victor Hugo as the most beautiful square in Europe, Brussels Grand-place is an impressive feat of architecture and history, and home to some of the country’s most notable buildings. Originally a marketplace for traders, the Grand-place now combines restaurants, bars and cafés, making it a cultural hub for tourists.
Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels
This huge 30-hectare park, sometimes referred to as Jubelpark, is a national landmark in
Brussels that was built during the reign of Leopold II in the 19th century to celebrate 50 years of Belgian independence. Home to the Giant Arch, three museums and a beautiful fountain, the park is a great place to lose a few hours and is easily accessible by public transport.
Mini-europe, Brussels
Walk from the Leaning Tower of Pisa to the romantic Eiffel Tower in just a few minutes in this meticulously accurate architectural microcosm. This location is great for photography enthusiasts since it showcases
FAST FACTS
Currency £1 = €1.1 Euro Timezone BST +1 Plug Type C Weather 18 d C / cloudy Travel time Brussels via London (Eurostar) 2hrs, Flights via Manchester 1hr 25m; Edinburgh, 1hr 40m; Bristol 1hr 15m.
some of Europe’s architectural triumphs in miniature form.
Montagne de Bueren, Liège
Built in 1881 to honour the 600 soldiers who died defending the city from an assault led by the Duke of Burgundy over 600 years ago. The 374 steps are lined with many buildings and walls built into the hill, creating a striking corridor-like effect as your eyes follow it to the top of the hill. Climb them all and your exertions will be rewarded with panoramic views over the city.
Musee des Transports en Commun du Pays de Liège, Liège
For those interested in anything with an engine, Liège’s museum of public transport has something for everyone, from a trolleybus to a vast array of trams and trains. Opened in 1985, it is housed in a former tram shed.