Belgian F1 Grand Prix

After a gap of a few weeks since the last Grand Prix and Mark Webber’s victory in Hungary on August 1st, the Formula 1 action will return soon with the Belgian Grand Prix from 27-29 August 2010. 

Until then, enjoy a taste of the excitement to come with this BBC video and a look back at the racing history of the Spa-Francorchamps circuit:

The circuit is located in the beautiful Ardennes forest in Wallonia, eastern Belgium, close to the German border.  The circuit is just a few miles from the town of Spa, which offers accommodation, cafes and restaurants, and even a casino - if you’re feeling lucky.  Those seeking budget accommodation in the Ardennes area may be able to find affordable accommodation or camping in surrounding villages.  

The Spa circuit is the longest in the F1 calendar, taking in 44 laps of the approx. 7 km (4 m) twisty-turny and hilly track.  It offers a mix of long fast straights and challenging high-speed corners, such as Eau Rouge (where the track crosses over a stream) and the hairpin at La Source.    

The weather at Spa is notorious for chucking it down with rain in one part of the circuit while staying dry in others, making the choice of tyres a roll of the dice.  Despite the weather, Spa remains a favourite of drivers and fans alike.

As the name suggests, the area is famous for its natural springs and spas.  Since Roman times people have visited the area to take in the waters and enjoy relaxaing hydrotherapy treatments.  They also have a bottled water industry.    

While in Belgium, don’t miss trying their specialty of frites with mayonnaise - that’s french fries with mayonnaise.   Don’t overdo it though, as the Ardennes area of Belgium is also famous for the Battle of the Bulge – which was, of course, a very serious matter and nothing to do with chips. 

Belgium is famous for many things, including its varieties of (quite strong) beer, delicious chocolates, tapestry, lace, and the either much-loved or hated Brussels sprout!  Belgium is also famous for Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo – just south of Brussels.

The town of Liege is approx a 35-40 minutes drive away from Spa.  Brussels is about a two hour drive and the location of the closest major international airport.  

Visit our Travel Guide to Belgium and follow the link for the Foreign Office (FCO) website for updated travel advice and information – and make a note of their driving advice if you plan to take the car. 

Don’t forget your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) but this should never be used as a subsitute for comprehensive travel insurance.   If you plan to take your car or motorcycle across the Channel, check that your UK and European vehicle breakdown cover is still current.  To obtain a quote click here.