a highlight in any car enthusiast's diary is the annual 'circuit des remparts' weekend. this superb event sees classic cars hurtling around the ancient, twisting roads of this pretty hill-top town called angouleme, itself a short 35 minute drive from here at les hirondelles.
the track hasn't changed since the very first race in 1939, and it is one of the very few motor races to take place within the walls of a town. the course itself is very demanding, twisting around the town ramparts and containing two right-angle bends and three hairpins. there is a wonderful eclectic collection of historic cars and, as with many historic motorsport events, participants and spectators do dress-up accordingly.
the first "circuit des remparts" race was held in 1939, and further races from that date were spasmodic until 1983 when the race was revived. it has taken place each year since, with the exception of 1989, and now holds the distinction of being the last race of its kind with only monaco and pau offering high speed, french city street racing.
2023 will provide the 51st edition of the famous circuit des remparts weekend in angoulême. it is not just an historic race, but a celebration, with concours competitions, a classic car scenic road-run through the charente countryside, all in addition to a full day of vintage and classic car racing around the historic walled circuit of angoulême.
a spectacle not to be missed!!