If you’re a Formula 1 fan, you won’t want to miss out on visiting the famous Circuit de Catalunya racing track in Montmeló just north of Barcelona, Spain. The track is well known worldwide for its exciting combinations of long straights and difficult corners. Its construction overlapped with the Olympic Games which were scheduled for Barcelona in 1991. The very same year the track was built it began hosting the Spanish Formula 1 Grand Prix. Tourists often confuse the Circuit de Catalunya with the Montjuïc Circuit, an older Spanish Grand Prix track located within the city of Barcelona itself, but that track hasn’t hosted the Grand Prix in many decades.

The Circuit de Catalunya not only playas host to the Spanish Grand Prix, but also is commonly used for F1 off seasontesting and for other significant events such as the Moto GP. What are some of the most unforgettable moments in the circuit’s proud history? Well, the very first year the circuit opened there was an exciting contest between Senna and Nigel Mansell. The two men raced head to head for 2nd place, with Mansell ultimately going on to win the entire race. In 1994, that legendary racer Michael Schumacher attained a brilliant and astonishing victory after completing over half of the Grand Prix in 5th gear. In 2006, Fernando Alonso made Spanish F1 history by becoming the very first Spanish driver to triumph on his country’s home circuit.

If you already know you’re going to be in the area, you can check out the Circuit de Catalunya’s offical web site to see an up to date timetable of events and also purchase passes for F1 or the other competitions which take place at the track. No events taking place during your visit? Never fear, there’s still lots of enjoyment on offer at the track. There’s a whole lot more you can do than just watching the races – the Circuit provides people lots of opportunities get to know the track, learn about motor racing, and even take a spin around the iconic track itself.

The Circuit provides official, guided tours which show you around the venue get a glimpse at all the hidden goings on of an important event, such as the briefing room, the podium, the press rooms, the boxes, and the paddock. If you’re a racing fan, you’ll have an incredible time hearing and seeing how everything hangs together. Passes must be purchased (and are available at a relatively economical price), so it’s not a bad idea book online beforehand. There’s also an open access zone where you can walk up the Avenue of Champions or pay a visit to the main grandstand. The circuit’s official store also has a variety of nice gifts for you to remember your day out by or bring home to friends and family.

You can also visit on ’experience’ weekends, and test out your abilities on the track yourself, behind the wheel of a high-end car like a Ferrari or Lamborghini. These ’driving experience’ bookings are for sale to both individuals and groups – but you’ll need to ensure you reserve ahead of time to avoid disappointment! Again, you can find a schedule of coming activities on the circuit’s web page. There’s no doubt about it, for lovers of sports cars and racing, there’s no better way to experience the exhilaration of a real Grand Prix venue!

What other entertainments are can be found in the neighborhood? Montmeló itself is a rather modest town with under 9,000 in population. It is home to a a charming church and has a number of hotels where you can stay if you would rather not head back to to Barcelona immediately. This can be a fantastic plan if you intend to spend a few days getting to know the venue and enjoying races. The town’s identity does center mainly around the circuit – in fact; the name “Montmeló” is strongly linked with that of the Spanish Grand Prix for many locals.

With so many fun and fascinating things to do in Barcelona, it can sometimes be a challenge trying to plan a short trip. For a racing fan though, few destinations will be as thrilling or offer up as many unforgettable moments as the Circuit de Catalonia. You can reach the Circuit from Barcelona city centre by train or bus, or if you’re renting a car, you can drive there in about a half hour.

For more information about upcoming events at the circuit check out the official website here. You can also find an excellent guide to the city of Barcelona and surrrounding areas here.

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Tags: autos, Barcelona, cars, f1, formula one, motorsport, Spain, Travel