French Revolution 7th-13th September 2008
The Route
Following the great success of the 2007 French Revolution, the 2008 routes promise more stunning scenery as crews explore this forgotten part of France. Gorges to wonder at, dramatic hilltop views to admire, quiet river valleys and dark forests to enjoy navigating through. Whether you drive a classic or a vintage car, enjoy the unique mix of some challenging old-fashioned regularity timing, controls that appear in the middle of nowhere, and the chance relax and exchange stories over a glass of wine, all which are distinctive features of a Conquest Event.
Sunday 7th September
The adventure begins at the historic 13 century Château de Castel Novel, Varetz. This luxury hotel is set in peaceful parkland and is just a few minutes drive from Brive-La-Gaillarde and the car train, so it is ideal for those who wish to arrive by the car train. The château’s bedrooms are all individually decorated to a high standard. After Signing On in the afternoon crews will be able to enjoy the outstanding local cuisine and a glass or two of wine at the very social Welcome Pre Rally Dinner in the elegant dining room before the competition starts tomorrow.
Monday 8th September
The action begins after breakfast as the route explores the exceptionally pretty villages, of the Corrèze. Although there will be time to admire the houses built of limestone and topped with terracotta roofs on the non-timed Passage Sections, there will be plenty of controls to find and check into on time.
Tuesday 9th September
Today will see the rally head north to ancient town centre of Angoulême, to stay for two nights at the welcoming Hôtel de France. First a visit to the Périgord Nord, so called because of the deep shade of forests to wake up the sleepy. Having paused a while for lunch, the rural lanes that zigzag through the peaceful countryside will test navigator and drivers alike as changes of speed and controls come thick and fast. Dinner tonight will be a casual affair with the chance to enjoy some of the regional specialities. |
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Wednesday 10th September
The route for today may not be long, but crews will have to be on their metal to avoid “wrong slotting” as the Charente region offers some terrific rallying through the Cognac vineyards. Having enjoyed a challenging morning, the afternoon will be free to perhaps discover Angoulême, compare stories or just relax with a glass of brandy!
Thursday 11th September
The rally will move northwards again, but this time to Poitiers and the lovely Château Clos de la Ribaudière. Route designer, John Walsh, has plenty of surprises up his sleeve, with a couple of exciting sections planned before the lunch halt and controls in the most unusual of places. The afternoon leg will give crews a chance to get their timing “Spot On” as route twists and turns through undulating farmland and tranquil villages.
Friday 12th September
Now the tempo increases and the final day’s rallying through the Vienne region’s maze of rural lanes will include some intriguing regularity sections where precise navigation is called for. The highlight of this unique event will be the Prize Giving on the manicured lawns of Château Clos de la Ribaudière followed by a Gala Celebration Dinner with lots of wine and dancing.
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