Digging into our ethos of “fast cars slow living”, we hope to inspire you to travel with racing but to take a little longer; to make a road trip through the landscapes, experience the culture, the food, the art, and the architecture.
Belgium is a small nation that plays a big role in European life and world history. Home to NATO and the European Union, Belgium is widely recognized for its beer, chocolate, waffles and fries. However, Belgium is more than that… It’s a country of great history and one that is full of cultural experiences for everyone. From Brugge to Arlon, there’s a world of things to do, try and enjoy. Take a trip East to the city of Spa, a picturesque location nearing the Ardenne forest. Home to the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, there’s action and adventure within these parts, but true to its name, the region surrounding Spa is a tranquil and relaxing place to visit. A stay in Spa is an incredible way to experience the best of Belgian culture, while staying close to all of the action of the GP weekend!
Key Information
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Currency: Euro ($).
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Language: Dutch, French, English.
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Time Zone: GMT+2
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In an Emergency: Call 101.
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Weather: The race falls at the end of summer break, and the first race of the European triple header. Temperatures fall between 27°C and 11°C on average.
The Circuit
Some say only the greats of the sport conquer a track like Spa; Opened in 1921, the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps started hosting races in 1924, and debuted in the Formula One World Championship in 1950. One of the most challenging circuits on the calendar and one of the most recognisable tracks in the world, Spa hosts several annual races such as Spa 24 Hours, World Endurance Championship and the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. The track covers a length of 7.004km, the longest on the current F1 calendar, with a total of 20 turns, including the iconic Eau Rouge and Radillon. With a mix of long straights and challenging fast corners, this track is a thrilling sequence that requires precision, balance and determination.
The weather within the Ardenne forest is unpredictable, which makes the racing all the more exciting. Although beloved, the circuit has been a point of contention as well, since a lack of safety has caused some serious concern amongst the racing community... Spa is a magical track, with an endless supply of excitement and adventure, one that’s guaranteed to put on a show for all Motorsport fans!
Track Facts
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Lap record: 1:46.286 (Valterri Bottas, 2018)
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Charles Leclerc took his maiden F1 win at this track, becoming the third youngest F1 race winner.
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Michael Schumacher is the only driver to have won the World Championship at the Spa Francorchamps track. He claimed his seventh and final title here in 2004.
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Michael Schumacher is the most successful driver in the Belgium Grand Prix, claiming six wins here between 1992-2002.
Do
Parc de Sept Heure: Nature is at the core of Spa, and the best way to explore it is by taking a walk among the historic Parc de Sept Heure. Turned into a public promenade in 1758, this beautiful park features many monuments such as the Armistice, Jean D’Ardenne, and the Gridelet. Hosting Sunday morning flea markets, this charming park also features minigolf and €5 pony rides during the summertime. The park’s north side goes steeply up through beech woods, with a funicular going up to the Thermes de Spa complex.
Les Thermes de Spa: At the top of a hill overlooking the city of Spa, at the Thermes de Spa, you can indulge in thermal treatments that resemble tradition and modern wellness. This space offers balneotherapy, beauty treatments and massages, as well as thermal baths, steam rooms and relaxation areas. More of an adult getaway, visiting this spa is a great way to break the action of a GP weekend and enjoy some self-care time.
SpaForest: If you’re looking to add some more excitement to the weekend, visit SpaForest for an adventure within the Ardenne forest. The main event is the tree-climb and zipline, but there’s mountain biking, archery, electric scooters and treasure hunts as well. It’s guaranteed to be a fun day exploring the natural beauty that Spa offers.
Stavelot Abbey Museum: Located 10 minutes from the racetrack, The Stavelot Abbey tells the history of one of the oldest monastic foundations in Belgium and the world’s most beautiful racing circuit along with the artistic world of the 19th century poet Guillaume Apollinaire. In the museum’s vaults, you’ll find the amazing history of the Spa-Francorchamps Circuit.
Visit Liège
Montagne De Bueren: Climb the famous 374 stairs of the Montagne de Bueren. The stairwell climbs higher and higher to give a beautiful view of the city below.
Liège Guillemins: Admire the impressive architecture at Liège Guillemins, arguably one of Europe's coolest train stations. Designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, this open-air station features ornate latticework glass and a steel roof designed to impersonate the curves of the hills surrounding the city.
Eat a Liège Waffle: There nothing more quintessentially Belgian than a fresh waffle. Enjoy one in Liège between exploring the pretty streets of the old town. You’ll be sure to find waffles sold from hole-in-the-wall food stalls and Cafes all around Liège. Une Gaufrette Saperlipopette and Pollux are both rumoured to serve the best Liège waffles in town.Â
Eat
Acqua Rossa, Francorchamps: This Italian restaurant in the heart of Francorchamps guarantees good vibes and is usually full of likeminded race fans during Grand Prix weekend. Serving until late its the perfect post race pit stop. Visit their website for more info. 🍕
Le St. James, Spa: St-James restaurant is a quaint little spot located in the heart of the city. With a European, Mediterranean and Belgian based menu, they excel at making basic dishes with a unique twist. A friendly service and good value for quality and size, St. James is a great place to stop by on your weekend in Spa.
Une Gaufrette Saperlipopette: The Saperlipopette brand can be discovered at seperate three addresses in Liège; La Petite Boutique, selling waffles and other sweet indulgences. La Boulangerie, where breads and pastries are baked daily, and La Crème Glacée, with its heavenly ice-creams. It’s a must if you find yourself exploring Liège.🍦
La Cour de la Reine, Spa: A Michelin Starred restaurant, La Cour de la Reine is symbolic of glamour and grandeur. With traditional Belgian ingredients, the menu focuses on French cuisine. The lounge-style restaurant is great for a date night or a night out with friends. Although pricey, the quality of the food and the fun, lively ambiance make it a good value for the experience. More info here.
L’Olivier, Spa: L’Olivier is a Mediterranean based restaurant, with Belgian and French influence. A quiet place, L’Olivier is great for a classic pizza or pasta dish, and is guaranteed to leave you satisfied! 🍝
Stay
Hotel L’Ecrin D’O: A former Austrian chalet, Hôtel l'Ecrin d'Ô is a small 7-room hotel, with a lounge-library, a beautiful terrace, an ornamental bridge and a dining hall. This cozy hotel offers an intimate setting less than 10 km from the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. L’Ecrin D’O will make you feel at home, with a welcoming staff and uniquely designed rooms.
Manoir de Lebioles: Recognised for its luxury environment and proximity to the city’s great restaurants, Manoir de Lebioles makes it easy to enjoy the best of Spa. The rooms at Manoir de Lebioles are spacious and comfortable, with amenities such as a private balcony, flat-screen tv and room service. The hotel also has a great restaurant, known for their breakfast and dinner services. Stay at the Manoir for a quiet, clean and luxurious stay in the Spa area.
L’Etape Fagnarde: Located in a refurbished old country residence amidst a green park, this B&B offers charming, bright guest rooms and a great location in Spa, not far from the local train station. A buffet breakfast is served each morning from 08:00 until 10:00, which features a range of local delicacies, fresh juices and a variety of special coffees and teas.