Snow-covered Spa...
Author & Photography
- Gareth Evans
Revision date
- February 17, 2005
On a cold January 26th 2005 we headed out in our Rover 600 from north Holland to visit the mighty Spa-Francorchamps. The hope was to drive the old circuit in its entirety, but we were denied the opportunity as the current GP track is now a permanent circuit and it is blocked from the public roads. We were however able to enter the circuit by driving under the straight leading from la Source to Eau Rouge and entering the pit/paddock area. Any hopes of driving the track were dashed however as the road was completely covered in snow as the pictures show. Also track workers stopped us from even trying. We were undeterred though, and were allowed to walk on the track to take these photos. Its easy to see why Grands Prix are not held at this time of year! Later on we drove on the old track, from Les Combes to just before Blanchimont. There was something strangely exhilarating about driving on such famous roads, and to see the daunting Masta Kink was worth it in itself. While the track is well used as a public road right up to the banked Stavelot corner, from there unfortunately the road is deteriorating quite badly. I would suppose only logging trucks and people visiting the track for GPs and other races would use that road now. It's a shame really, an even bigger shame that you can't emulate Jackie Stewart, Fangio etc. and drive the whole old circuit. That's progress though I suppose. But even at this time of year, there is a magic about the place...if you get the opportunity, go and have a look, you won't be disappointed.
