2010 Belgian Grand Prix discussion

This area is for people who are attending or planning to attend the 2010 Belgian Grand Prix

Going to the 2011 Belgian Grand Prix? Join the discussion here: 2011 Belgian Grand Prix discussion

Use the comments below to share your thoughts on the race, where on the track you intend to watch from, how you’ll get to the track and more.

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2010 Belgian Grand Prix

913 comments on “2010 Belgian Grand Prix discussion”

  1. Hey Carol, I have sent an email to f1@francorchamps-camping.com asking for their address cause i couldnt find it on the website. Is it Michael who gets those emails? Anyway im going to book grandstand tickets on Eau Rouge, just need to find out where to get them delivered. Even though it would of been good to watch with you guys, hopefully we can meet up when were there. Not too sure how we’ll be camping, will let you know on our progress. Thanks for your quick reply and your help.
    Adam

    1. carol treurnicht
      9th December 2009, 21:11

      Adam
      send me a mail please and I can give you the street address:
      carol.treurnicht@arcor.de
      Cheers
      Carol

    2. hi … i will pass no far from Spa on Saturday 28 (i have a fly on 29 early) … so there is a big incentive to go see qualifing at the most beautiful circuit i remember …
      are there tickets good and no expensive for saturday only, available at the circuit on the same day … ??
      it’s interesting for me to know it in advance as the circuit implies 150km deplacement … (for me it’s not problem but my girlfriend will kill me if we make the move and there are no tickets :-) )
      will be nice if someone knows in advance availaibility of tickets on circuit for only saturday …

      thanks … (excuses for my english)

      Juan Luis – Madrid
      jlgarcve@hotmail.com

      1. Hi Juan-Luis
        they do not have tickets for each of the days- only Sunday or weekend. Bronze weekend will cost you €160 and yes they will definitely be available still.
        Cheers
        Carol

  2. Anthony_Ferrari
    9th December 2009, 11:23

    Hellooo! Am I first to post? Joe and I have booked our GA tickets for 2010. Looking forward to seeing you all again.

  3. Hi all
    Help!!!!
    I am looking to take my boyfriend to his first full F1 weekend this year at Spa – Christmas surprise – but am struggling to sort accommodation.
    The plan, if you can call it that, is to drive over on weds night / thurs morning and stay…somewhere… the drive back on the sun/mon after the race. The problem is that we have a 2 seater car lacking in boot space so bringing a tent along is not a simple task, although camping at or within walking distance of the track would be ideal. So, my questions are:
    * Do you know of any decent ish campsites that have tents already there?
    * Alternatively, are there any BB’s that offer similar fun and location as the campsites?
    Sorry, and thank you all in advance!

    1. there ar no campsites with tents already. But I can arrange a tent (tent only). Up to today I still can arrange some B&B.

  4. Richard Warren
    9th December 2009, 14:17

    Very tempted to go to Spa again. I broke my F1 cherry at Spa in 2008 and loved it.

    I was wondering if anyone has any tips for Spa? Particularly camping and any inclusive packages.

    In 2008 we stayed in a picturesque small town just across the border in Germany called Monschau. It was lovely if a little expensive. I would highly recommend it if you like good food and a beautiful setting to chill out in after a day of motor sport. It took about 40 minutes to drive to the track in the morning – a drive mostly through forests and hills which was great fun.

    Also toying with getting a grandstand seat. GA was great for a first visit as we got to walk the whole track and watch from several places over the weekend. Les Combes was a great place to watch but so crowded on race day (we got there too late).
    Eau Rouge is a unique spectacle but not sure I would want to watch the whole race from there – not much overtaking.

    So much to consider!

    1. carol treurnicht
      9th December 2009, 21:08

      Richard
      if you want to camp and have some fun then come and join us at the Elephant- we had a ball last year and there are loads from this thread going again next year.
      Its quieter than the huge main sites, 20 minute walk to the track (shuttle bus also available) and we’d love to meet you!

      1. Richard Warren
        10th December 2009, 9:02

        I haven’t camped since I was about 5! Still, I’m looking into it. I have e-mailed Elephant and asked if there are any B&B vacancies – if not then I’d better buy a tent ;)
        What are the facilities like at Elephant?

        1. carol treurnicht
          10th December 2009, 19:02

          Richard
          there are B&B possibilities there so keep me posted if you don’t hear anything in the next few days and I’ll get my folks there to do some digiing for you.
          If you were there 2008 you must have enjoyed the “fantastic” weather! I have never seen so much mud but a pal of mine told me Monza was even worse that year! Even we in our camper (like most others) had to be towed out by the neighbouring farmer with his tractor- he thought it was hysterically funny and kept muttering in French about these crazy F1 people…..
          More later as got to sort a couple of things right now.

  5. The address is Société de Promotion du Circuit Spa-Francorchamps, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, 4970 Stavelot4970, Belgique

    You can get it in two secs going a Google search.

    Any other recommendations on where to watch the race from, and where to stay?

  6. Has anyone gone to Spa without taking their car? What is the best way of going about doing that? Flights, getting to the track on race day, accommodation? Any help is much appreciated.

    And what tickets are best to buy? General admission, or a reserved seat? Where are the best seats for the most reasonable price?

    Many Thanks!

  7. carol treurnicht
    9th December 2009, 21:04

    Heh? How did that old post of mine get here? Hi guys welcome to the new thread as I guess we bust the old one from last year! We got to 655 posts so I guess Keith had to start us off again!
    Let me introduce myself- I am Carol and am a total Spa addict and go every year.
    @ Adam- yes the mails go to Michael personally so don’t worry- I know he is travelling and away at the moment but you will get a response!
    @ Anthony- great news- looks like quite a few of us will be back again this year so looking forward to it- I am also all booked up- just need to sort the camper out but not till after Christmas on that one as got all the “other” stuff going on at the moment!
    As for the rest of you- I am sure we’ll get some helpful hints.
    Cheers for now
    Carol

  8. carol treurnicht
    9th December 2009, 21:06

    Keith
    thanks for the new thread but promise you won’t delete the old one yet please…….
    Also here it says its for people attending the Bahrain Grand Prix……………??

  9. carol treurnicht
    9th December 2009, 21:10

    Keith
    sorry to bother you again but what on earth is this strange post of mine from September from the old thread doing here- it looks kinda odd now!

  10. Hi again
    So, my tickets are booked and I’m totally giddy with excitement (and it’s not even my present!). Now I just need accommodation tips…see previous post. Can anyone out there help?
    If I can squeeze the smallest tent in the world into my car, what is the elephant like? Should we look to stay there? Any half decent places to eat nearby?
    Thank you :o)

    1. If you want a site that specialises in pre-erected tents the link at the bottom may be useful. It is a good site considering it is temporary, with decent toilets and washing facilities and plenty of entertainment in the evening. Also if you like your sleep it is quiet from midnight.

      Only downside is it is 9km from site and if you drive yourself it can be almost an hour from campsite to track; mainly due to the length of walk from track car parks.

      Stunning scenery too. Not saying it is better or worse than The Elephant just that it does specialise in pre-erected tents.

      1. Sorry couldn’t attach link correctly in the post above the url is as per here.

        http://f1camping.com/events/belgian_grand_prix.

        1. http://www.campingf1.com Formula 1 Campsites and they do most of the European race tracks

  11. August 29 is my lovely wife’s birthday and we want to celebrate at the Spa GP this year. We’ve wanted to attend Spa for years, but this will be our first time.
    Coming over from California, we’re into a pretty pricey trip, but it’s her birthday so we’re going for it – first class flight, fast car (rental), fancy hotels. And for the race, we would like to get covered grandstand tickets.
    I’m looking for any suggestions for the best spots. We prefer race viewing to pit viewing.
    How about Gold 3 at Eau Rouge? Is this a good choice? Someone told me there is a grandstand from which you can see the cars for nearly 20 seconds. Is that true? Which one?
    Any guidance would be really appreciated.
    Thanks!
    -Rick

    1. Tribunes – the best place is Gold 2

  12. Thanks Michael! We’re booked! We’re going! We’re stoked!

    I’ll keep checking this board for tips (routes in and out, services on the circuit grounds and in the area, and so on). What a great resource!

    -Rick

  13. Hi everyone

    I’ve just booked The Elephant (I hope the email reaches Michael…) and am pretty excited! It will be our first year at Spa and the forujm posts make it sound like an absolute ball.

    Hope to see you all there

  14. carol treurnicht
    22nd December 2009, 20:23

    Hi peeps
    taking shape for 2010 slowly- great stuff.
    We got a few things planned for this year to make your trip memorable!
    More news later but till then- everyone have a fantastic christmas and an even merrier New Year and look forward to chatting/making plans then!
    Cheers
    Carol

  15. Hi All! We’re coming over to Spa from the US. I’m ready to buy seats and I’m torn as to which. I’m debating between Gold 8 at La Source of Gold 2, since apparently, you can see the cars for quite a while. We’d like to see some pit action, race action and the podium, so I was thinking Gold 8, but I’d love to hear some reviews! Thanks and see you all there!

    1. carol treurnicht
      23rd December 2009, 21:52

      Hi Andrea
      great- you won’t regret it- according to our resident expert Michael Gold 2 is your best bet.
      I’m a poor GA person so can’t help you on grandstand tips I’m afraid!

    2. Gold 8 you see only La Source for a few seconds. Gold 2 you can see from La Source to Le Raidillon.
      http://www.spagrandprix.com/de/pages/plan-detaille-tribunes.aspx

        1. the number of the tribune I mean changed – now it’s Gold 3!

  16. Claire & Rob Neal
    23rd December 2009, 11:18

    Whoop Whoop its been confirmed that Schumacher is to race for Mercedes in 2010. OMG im sooooooo excited for spa next yr :) Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and an even merrier new year and look forward to chatting and making plans in the new year xxxx

  17. All booked… can anyone give me an idea of what we will need at the site to make our camping stay a little more luxurious?!?!? Thanks

    1. carol treurnicht
      23rd December 2009, 21:57

      Hi AJ
      great news!
      Depends on what you mean- are you tenting it or coming with a camper? If you have a car your are mobile if in a camper then you are pretty much fixed. Most of us bring everything bar the kitchen sink so we can usually help out if you forgot the teabags/need a hot coffee or whatever. Nice thing about the site everybody just mucks in and shares. Let us know what you are thinking of and we can probably give you a few more hints or tips!
      Cheers
      Carol

  18. Thanks Carol — I pulled the trigger at got Gold 8 seats at La Source this morning!! So excited!! It’s one of my favourite corners in F1, and I figure we’ll see some overtaking action, as well as the start, and some pit action (though less with no refueling for next year), and we can still make it to the podium. It came down to Gold 2 or Gold 8, and I just went 8.

    I’m a HUGE Schumi fan, so I’m just over the moon about being able to see him at Spa! I’m going to keep up with this thread and we’d love to meet up with some people, if you don’t mind some Yanks joining in on the fun!

    Now…off to find hotels in Spa. Recommendations welcome!

    Cheers!

  19. christopher (sennaboy3)
    24th December 2009, 9:27

    Carol: We are going to need a detailed account of Rolf’s reaction to the Schumi news! Counting down the days to SPA already…Merry Xmas.

  20. Oh crap! Well, too late now, I suppose. I’m sure we’ll have a great time in Gold 8, nonetheless. I wanted to also see some of the pits and grid, so hopefully Gold 8 will come through. Just the experience of being there will be fabulous, though!

  21. All our friend a Merry Christmas – 247 days!
    The Elephant® Camping

  22. Hi, I’m planning on going to the Belgian GP next year. I plan to camp but I don’t drive, so I need a campsite that is either close to the track or offers a shuttle service. Once I sort this out I can book all the tickets :)

    1. carol treurnicht
      28th December 2009, 9:25

      Andrew
      where we are at the elephant its about 20 minute walk to Eau Rouge entrance and there is also a shuttle service (only time it does not run is directly after the race as the roads are closed!)Also if you need help getting there form wherever in the first place get in touch with Michael and I am sure he can sort you out. They are all more than helpful there.
      Cheers
      Carol

      1. That sounds great, thanks for replying. I’ll have a look on your site.

  23. happy new year everyone!!! Hope 2010 is great for you all lotsa love

  24. carol treurnicht
    2nd January 2010, 17:58

    Happy New Year peeps- bring on the season!

  25. My Son and I have GA tickets booked. Will be our first GP although been F1 fans for years. Just e-mailed Michael @ The Elephant as all you hardy Spa goers seem to recommend it. Hope to see you all there. Can’t wait for August!!

  26. Does anyone have advice for where to book at this stage (both accom & race tickets)?

    I’d really appreciate any up to date hints and tips you may have since this will be our first ever trip to a F1 race! :)

    1. to buy tickets pls got to http://www.spagrandprix.com/
      for booking parking or camping:
      francorchamps-parking.com

      cu

  27. We’ve got G3 booked – does that allow us to watch some practice / qualifying anywhere else, I wonder (GA spots for example)? We could in Monaco and Silverstone.

    1. Gold 3 – you have your fixed seat. So u watch from G3 – not from any other tribunes. But u can walk in the Bronze aerea … if the organisation don’t change the system …

      1. Thank you – very useful. We’d like to watch some practice at Pouhon, which looks good. Hope we can get there! thanks again.

        1. carol treurnicht
          3rd January 2010, 23:44

          Gareth
          normally if you got grandstand tickets you have access to your grandstand and all other bronze (GA) areas- so you have access to most of the track. Hope to see you there.
          Cheers
          Carol

          1. Perfect – thank you, Carol.

  28. christopher (sennaboy3)
    6th January 2010, 9:46

    Gareth: We sat in G3 last year. Great tickets! Wait till you get your first look! Spa hasn’t adopted the “Roving Grandstand” theory on Friday/Saturday so your confined to your particular stand & General Admission. Spa is a bit strict on letting you in & out of certain areas; They literally scan you in/out of your Grandstand, but you can work your way fully around the track for some excellent views. cheers

    1. Thanks, Christopher! Looking forward to it all! If it’s fine weather for a practice session we’ll try to find our way to Pouhon – if it’s wet, we’ll stay put under cover!!! My 13 year old can’t believe we’re going!!! It’ll be his second F1 GP – it was Silverstone last time. We also went to the IOM TTs two years ago – or should I not mention that?!?!?!? Cheers for being so helpful everyone!

  29. carol treurnicht
    9th January 2010, 10:49

    Hi all
    looks like the Darrens are also joining us- great!

  30. SeanPendlebury
    11th January 2010, 15:17

    Hi all, A few mates and I are all looking to see our first European F1 event at Spa 2010. We will be camping at the circuit, mainly for the ease of getting about and generally not wanting to walk miles to the circuit!

    Anyway…

    Ive looked on the website: http://www.spa-tickets.be/spa-francorchamps/f1-tickets.asp

    this tells me that camping is 168 Euros + fees etc

    Now my questions are:

    1. Where is the camping in relation to the circuit, anyone care to point it out on a map or something? or in relation to a specfic corner?

    2. Does that price indicated include camping and general admission to the race weekend.

    3. Do i need to pay for extra parking or can i park next to my tent?

    4. When ordering the tickets from the above website, do i order tickets person or per tent pitch, id imagine per person, which makes sense, but how do they know we 6 tickets and only 3 tent pitches?

    Thanks for any help you can give me.

    Seam

  31. carol treurnicht
    12th January 2010, 20:48

    Hi Sean
    thanks for the mail- think I maybe answered most of your questions- hope you join us!

  32. Just booked tickets, but cant email the elephant place, there website is down always?

    Any help please!

    1. carol treurnicht
      16th January 2010, 15:59

      Hi Jamie
      no panic. What did you try and send? Drop me a line
      carol.treurnicht@arcor.de
      and if I can help I will. Or if you have questions etc.
      Cheers
      Carol

  33. Thanks I see it now, do you 2 work there or are you campers, fans? Sounds like a good atmosphere, mini glasto! I’m coming from brussels on thursday train to liege and fervier, any advice on the next bit from train to elephant site?

    1. I’m the owner.
      If you don’t find a bus from Verviers to FRANCORCHAMPS (not Spa!) call me an I will send the shuttle to pick u up.

    2. carol treurnicht
      16th January 2010, 21:13

      Hi Jamie
      as you can see you got a response from the man himself!
      I am not involved but have stayed there many times now and again this year……if Michael lets us in! Lol!

  34. Kool, Michael lets cut to the chase…where’s all the real nightlife around Francorchamps..There’s a casino in Spa I see, any good late bars? It’s my brothers birthday so were trying to put together and near death experience for him!!

  35. Hi All
    We are totally booked up already,
    Michael has confirmed the site,
    Gold 3 tickets sorted, just the tunnel to go !
    That’l be Little Darren, Ross, big Darren & Mark arriving on the Thursday lunchtime, look forward to meeting you all there !!!

    1. carol treurnicht
      18th January 2010, 20:08

      Fantastic Darren- looking forward to seeing you and Big Darren again and meeting your other buddies!
      We’ll be there from Weds afternoon onwards.

      Michael
      please drop me a line as I need to talk to you! Grrrrrrr!

  36. PraxisTent will be providing the latest style spacious tents, erected and fully equipped, creating the Grand Prix Village just 20 minutes travel from the Belgian Grand Prix Circuit at Spa-Francorchamps in 2010. The Tented Village is conveniently located with transport available to and from the circuit and we can accommodate up to 500 people on site at Camping Polleur.

    Has anyone booked here?

    1. – not authorized for the F1!
      Polleur is far from the cirquit (~20km), u have to drive by car, us the traffic jam and pay the parking fees of 10 Euro/Day

      1. Sorry to bother you all again, getting out after the gp to get to verviar? Is it like silverstone – grid lock – how many hours?

  37. Michael, I’ve booked my race tickets and would like to book a spot at your campsite. How do I go about doing that? Thanks in advance :)

    1. Oh – it’s easy – pls go to my web and fill out the form … http://francorchamps-parking.com
      cu

    2. carol treurnicht
      18th January 2010, 20:05

      Hi Andrew
      would be great to welcome you.
      Here’s the link
      http://francorchamps-parking.com/
      Cheers
      Carol

    3. Thank you both for your replies

  38. I’ve e-mailed Michael twice trying to confirm camping costs, but haven’t had a reply. Can anybody confirm the price for camping would be €135 for a four night stay – Thursday 26th August to Sunday 29th August (leaving AM Monday 30th), please. Is parking included in the camping price? Also, can anybody confirm a €20 deposit is required. I just want to make sure that I’m interpreting the web-site correctly.

    1. Hi Dave,
      welcome to Francorchamps.
      I didn’t get any mail from you. The Server of the reservation form send me each reservation by email and I ceck it dayly.
      I checked the mail server – no mail from you…

      The Prices you will find on the web side (prices are fixed by the community of Francorchamps, count by DAY). Parking is included.
      Deposit you refund if you take back home your rubbish. (to much rubbish for the small village of Francorchamps)
      Fees für shower an toilett service not incl.
      (permanently clean toilett and incl. shower)

      cu
      Michael
      f1@francorchamps-parking.com

  39. Is stavelot a different commune to francorchamps? When you say the price is set do you mean stavelot too? I’m interested because I might have been overcharged!

  40. Panic over is the same stavelot-francochamps same place…

    1. Hi liamj,
      have a look to a map – Stavelot is in the south, Francorchamps (with the main entry) in the north of the circuit

      1. Yeah all clear now thankyou. turned out that Spa is completely new again and I BOOKED there. Now I will be further away nearer paris! – i love Belge – SPA grand prix not at Spa @ Francochamps! hehehe??

  41. Prices fixed! A forum myth that’s been floating around the forums for a few years now. The tax is set, not the camping price? On good authority!

  42. Hi everyone. I’m new to F1 but want to buy my husband tickets for Spa this year for his 40th birthday and wondered if I could ask your advice please. From what you’ve said so far, it sounds like tickets for Gold 3 would be best to see action on corners etc, is this right? I know he is not keen on pit seats and wants to see all the action.

    Also, I had a question about accommodation: I am not very keen on camping (too many family camping holidays as a child!) – are there any B&Bs nearby or are they all going to booked up by now? Or would they be difficult to get to/from from the circuit?

    Thanks!
    Rebecca

  43. http://www.stavelot.be/files/gallery/terrainsdecamping1193329189.pdf

    Superficie de Type d’abris Taux
    l’emplacement
    Type 1 – de 50 à 79 m² Tentes 50 €
    Type 2 – de 80 à 99 m² Caravanes motorhomes (2,5m /8 m) 70 €
    Type 3 – de 100 à 119 m² Caravanes résidentielles et chalets …..
    (art 1 ;20, alinéa 2 du décret)
    (superficie au sol jusque 30 m²) 85 €
    Type 4 – 120 m² et plus Idem 3 ci-avant
    (superficie au sol de plus de 30 m²) 100 €

    some kind of reduction also it appears, french is not my first language, I readily apologise.

    Camping Polluer is authorised.

    1. Yep – it is in french …
      This are the TAX of the Community of Staverlot for a permanent camping place for a year. Polleur is a permenent camping, not only for F1. 17 km from Francorchamps. In the Ardennes you can find some more permanent camping places – maybe cheaper as Polleur.
      The Community of Francorchamps Fix the prices for the Parking and Camping of Race Events and take a special “Event Tax” from this prices.
      More questions? Ask me, I am leaving for 25 years in Francorchamps …
      cu

      1. Thats the point

        Camping polleur is authorized – and its price is not set because its permanent camping.

        It has a different tax to you because it’s outside the price fixing durastiction 17km away?

        Its price is not set and it can have campers for whatever event they wish too??

        Perhaps lost in translation, but authorized is quite a strong word to use for people trying to book accomodation in a foreign country?

        tanto!

        1. Polleur is not a circuit campsite I think would be a more suitable description, you are free to book if you wish if you have no travel issues, it wont be raided!

        2. right – that’s the point – Camping Polleur is a permanent Camping Place out of the dictation of the community of Francorchamps. And don’t need their special event authorisation.
          If you use google map – router – you see: 17 km to Francorchamps.

  44. Hi folks
    been offline due to virus attack last few days.
    Interesting discussion going on which is great- I mean we all have different requirements and expectations from a GP weekend – the main thing is that whatefver ticket or accommodation people choose that they have a weekend of a lifetime!
    Cheers
    Carol

  45. Michael, I sent you a form last week but made a mistake and sent another with the same details but amended length of stay. I sent you an email but you haven’t replied! Sorry to complicate things but could you replace my original form (in the name Andrew White, postcode beginning BN16) with the new one? Thanks. :)

  46. Hey Everyone

    Been reading this site for a while now after being sent it as a link when I created a new discussion about visiting spa on planetf1.com. Me and a friend (22 and 23) are wanting to get to Spa this year, we were gonna try Silverstone first but we’re both away in Ibiza at the time and Spa is on my birthday weekend so we thought we’d give it a go. There’s so many posts on here I think i’m beginning to get confused with all of the information so I was wondering if anyone could hit the nail on the head with a few questions. We’re going to travel from Newcastle through Calais etc and up (first time driving abroad, uh oh…), we’re going to buy the GA tickets and get ourselves a good spectacting spot but its the whole logistical camping banter that is confusing me. We’re looking to have a good time and enjoy the partying and booze but I can’t decide

    Where to stay? Buy camping tickets off the official site?
    To buy tickets now or on the door? Buy parking tickets off the official site??

    Are the campsites at the circuit good or bad?

    Done a lot of research but it would be nice if someone could just show me the light, haha. Cheers everyone

    1. Hi Harry- firstly great to see someone from my neck of the woods if you are coming from Newcastle! Missed Xmas one year due to Newcy Brown but that’s another story!
      Lets get to basics- GA tickets you can buy on site and to be recommended now the discount season is over so you’ll pay more if you order in advance.
      Then as to where to stay it depends on what you want- if you want a reasonbably secure place withing staggering distance of the track and a good time then the elephant is a good bet. If you want more peace and swimming pools and activities for kids etc then there are places a bit farhter away.
      If you want all night discos to meet the birds or whatever then maybe one of the nearby towns is what you are looking for.
      Have a think and give us a few more details on wishes then we can probably help a bit more!
      Cheers
      Carol

    2. PS- if you camp with elephant then you don’t need parking as you can either walk or take the shuttle.
      The official sites are huge, crammed in and in my opinion chaotic- but if that is what you are looking for then fine!
      As for entertainment we make our own and barbie together (if it doesn’t work then sod it we’ll share the crisps or whatever!)then take it from there- I can only say it took us forever to get home last year because after the race no-one wanted to go home!
      The local pub is also a fun hangout with F1 fans from all over……beer is excellent!

      1. Thanks Carol, the official sites are whats confusing me, seems like an absolute logistical nightmare to sort it, but we wanna enjoy a full weekend of partying as well as finding a good spot and watching the race, happy to buy the tickets there and then, but as far as everything else goes its just getting on my nerves.

        Is the elephant a good base for heading to local bars and exploring the local towns??

        Cheers

  47. Hi Michael. Me again. Thank you for your email. Don’t worry about the delay it was my fault anyway, but the new bill wasn’t attached!

      1. Ahh- we thought you were old! Do you still have that mad hairdo?

        1. grrrrrr …. looks as you like to stay in the corner of 3rd aerea ….

          1. Oh dear- so I am banned to the cowshed again?

    1. Thank you very much Michael :D

      As I said, it was my fault for getting the original form wrong!

  48. Andrea Frederick
    31st January 2010, 4:26

    Hi All! We’re still looking for hotels in Spa or Francorchamps and they are all completely booked from what I can find! I’ve found two that have space, but they are just a smidge out of budget and only have triples and suites left (which we don’t need for two people)

    So, I’m thinking of staying in Liege and taking the train in. Any thoughts on whether that’s a bad/good idea, or any other suggestions? We’re coming from the USA, so camping isn’t really an option for us and I’m starting to get concerned!

    Thanks!
    Andrea

    1. To get a Hotel room it’s a little late.
      why not camping? A tent ist not the problem …

  49. Andrea Frederick
    31st January 2010, 15:13

    I think I’m misunderstanding the camping thing! Where I’m from, camping means a tent, sleeping bags, no WCs or showers — and we cannot bring that stuff with us from the States. What’s the camping you mean? (Sorry for the dumb questions…I’m a Spa noobie!) I looked at The Elephant’s Web site, but I think I’m still missing something.

    Thanks!

    1. Andrea
      if you have no success in finding a hotel then think about the camping stuff. A tent and sorting you with chairs to sit on, blow up mattress to sleep on is non problem- in fact we did this withn a few guys from USA last year and we all had a super time. The site has proper toilets and showers- and you only need to sleep in your tent as most people hang out with the neighbours…..last year we all just barbecued together and those of us in campers had no problem at all making tea and coffee etc or grilling the food……up to you but think about it.
      Where are you flying into and when and will you have transport at all or reliant on trains etc when you arrive?
      Let us know what we can do to help get you guys sorted.
      Cheers
      Carol

  50. Hello,

    I am looking at attending the Grand Prix this year with my partner. Is there anymore B&B rooms left at the Elephant?

    Thanks in Advance

    John

    1. yes – still rooms. pls email me.
      cu
      Michael

  51. Tickets bought, camping paid for and only the ferry booking to do. Can’t wait and looking forward to seeing you all there. First time to Spa but always wanted to go.

  52. Going to be looking at booking tickets next weekend, and seems the elephant is the place to be for camping….if here are still places left. Is the site mainly brits or is there a huge cross section of nationalities?

    1. Hi Rick,
      we are international. Not only German and Brits … USA, Australia … everybody is wellcome
      cu

  53. Hi Rick
    nice to see your interest. Most of the people that come through here are Brits but last year we have peeps from Germany, US, Australia, South Africa, New Zealand so I think you can say we are a pretty mixed bunch!

    1. Thanks Carol and Michael.

      Tickets are now booked. Camping reservation from has been filled in and sent. Cant wait for August now. Are there any shops or local pubs near the camp site?

  54. Hi Michaelare you there?!?!?

    I have sent a couple of emails on both of your email addresses with regard to paying for my camping space that I booked before Christmas for this years GP, but have not received a response. Are we still booked in, and how can I pay you?!?!?

    Thanks

    Angela

    1. grrrr … still problems with the spam filter? please try f1@spa-francorchamps-camping.com
      I will send a mail up to you.

  55. Etienne Peters
    8th February 2010, 20:33

    Hey guys,

    New here. My name is Etienne Peters(Dutch) Going for the second time to a f1 race, second time belgian. First time oh man. friday morning walking to the grandstand seeing the hils of the ardennes still covered in mist then suddenly a f1 car is being started. Pure goosebumbs. Then it hit me. F1 in its purest form.

    I sat at silver 1 then and this year. wich is not a bad spot at all. you can see from exit la source and the pit exit all the way up kemmel corner. Plus a big video screen dead in front of you and you can see into the paddock from there.

    Anyone sitting on silver 1 this year? Let me know.

    Im seeing that a few people have problems by finding a place to stay during the grand prix. For this year its maybe a litle to late but if you are sure that your gonna be here next year and if your willing to pay somewhat more then i would definetly recommend booking one of the houses in one of the landal green parks in belgium not far from the track

    Im lucky enough that my parents own one of the houses at one of those landal greenparks 20 min of the track. usually 2 or 3 houses are booked the rest is rented by an f1 team. So again be quick!!! Last year toyota was there. on the saturday evening they’d celebrated that trulli was starting second, welll… let we just say they celebrated a litle too hard, me too actually :P No wonder they’d kinda sucked on the sunday:) This year another team stays here. Dont know wich one yet but try to find out and will return with pics for you to enjoy

    You all have a good one at Spa..

  56. Etienne Peters
    8th February 2010, 20:41

    Etienne here again,

    For those interested:

    http://www.youtube.com/user/etienne12345678

    here’s my youtube channel. I have video’s from the thursday pitwalk to the sunday race from last year.

    Cheers,

    Etienne

  57. Hi all me and my brother are wanting to come to spa in august and im looking for any tips, ive been before about 10 years ago and camped in the village but facilites where crap no toilet and the only water we had was a pipe out of the ground. so i would like to camp again but want toilets and a shower and electric hookup if possible any ideas would be great

    many thanks

    nicola

    1. Hi Nicola,
      we have CLEAN toilets (WC), we have warm showers.
      Okay – fresh water only a tap near the showers … But everythin clean.
      If you like to book soon you can get electric hookup too.
      Please have a look to our web …
      cu
      Michael

  58. Well just emailed Michael for camping prices, gonna book the F1 tickets soon, looking at the gold 4 seats. its a wedge of cash but I think the views would be awesome. Anyone sat there before? Now to figure out the eurostar costs.

  59. Claire & Rob Neal
    10th February 2010, 12:11

    Carol,Harry… we are from Middlesbrough, how are you both getting to Spa? are you taking the euro tunnel, ferry from dover or ferry from Hull? we think we are taking the euro but not sure yet, thats the only thing we need to book now.We are also planning a stop over in Bastogne to see the “battle of the bulge” museum. We are both on countdown to the start of the season and getting more excited as it gets closer, im predicting a hell of a season though i am kinda disappointed with the “new” points system.

    1. Hi to you Claire and Rob
      I’m originally form costa del Darlington (yeah well!) but lived in Dresden for yonks now so will be coming from the totally opposite direction to you guys!
      Totally excited about start of new season now!

    2. Michelle from Newcastle
      3rd March 2010, 20:24

      Claire & Rob,
      We’re coming from Newcastle, have just booked tickets and waiting to hear from Michael about camping. Might be worth us getting in contact to compare journeys – we plan to take the tunnel across.

      If you’re interested post here then we can exchange contact details.

      Michelle

      1. Claire & Rob Neal
        5th March 2010, 12:37

        Hi Michelle, yeah it sounds like a plan, we plan to take the tunnel across too(not too keen on the ferry)What day are you planning on traveling over to Belgium?

        Claire

  60. ARGH! Looks like i wont be at Spa for the third year this year. Normally me and my dad go, we stayed in the elephant last year (highly recommended) but will be off to Silverstone with a few friends, Just wishing you guys a great race, hopefully it will be a good one! (Although Ill be gutted Ill miss it if it is) Not long now to the new season! 30 days until Bahrain, with 4 new teams, thats if they all make it, its going to be amazing. Im sure all the Schumacher fans who were at Spa last year are ecstatic. Elephant is, by far, the best campsite, just to back Michaels point, yes the facilities are good, better than any other campsite, and the walk, is nothing. Or just take the shuttle, but it is a nice walk.

  61. Hi Carol,

    You seem to be the font of all knowledge re Spa! I assume that the Elephant has good loo’s etc as you seem to highly recommend it. The phot’s make it look huge; are you allocated somewhere when you arrive or should you request an area?

    Re the Race F1 weekend itself; what would you suggest is the best ticket to go for?

    Thanks for your advise an great reading your posts!

  62. Hi guys,

    I’m coming with some friends to the Spa GP, and we’re just looking into camping. Everything seems to be pointing towards the Elephant (loving the fact that it’s only a walk away from the circuit) but I was just wondering what facilities there are. I suppose the big question is, is there any food available there, or is it near to places to get food?

    Would appreciate any info like that about the campsite :)

    Thanks!

  63. We’re in Gold 3 – we’d also like to do some viewing from Pouhon. What’s the best route to walk from G3 to Pouhon? Thanks!

  64. Hi all
    great to see the interest.
    Elephant is not huge- in fact its quite small and friendly- big enough to say you won’t get to know everyone there but small enough to say you probably met up with most at some stage of the weekend!
    Food? Most of us grill and if you can contribute a bottle of beer or a crisp i am sure most of us are happy to have you join us! None of us starved yet! There is a pub or two around the village and they do serve food but to be honest not many of us made it that far to try it ( we had Andy next door last year barbecuing all sorts of stuff so we just ate his!)
    The baker also comes daily bring fresh croissants, baguettes etc so breakfast is also no problem!
    As for viewing Gareth- if you got G3 tickets you get to your grandstand but also access to all the bronze (GA) areas which at Spa are great so you can get to Pouhon or wherever you like really. You can either walk round the whole track ( a must for us Fridays) or there are walkways through the middle of the track. You will love every bit of the place wherever you stop and watch from.
    Cheers
    Carol
    And put it in your diaries please- beer on the Eau Rouge after the race is a MUST BE THERE!

  65. Just for the record so you all know.
    1. i am not a travel agent
    2. Have only ever been GA to Spa as am poor…. (lol)
    3. Have stayed at Elephant 3 times now and it gets better every year.
    4. No I don’t own the Elephant- the chief there is Michael who posts here now and again when his hair allows…..
    5. And yes I love the place and go every year!
    If that makes me an expert- well yeah!
    Just want you peeps to enjoy as much as i do and have a weekend to remember!

  66. hello everyone
    all booked for spa G.M all the way,have been on to michael
    about the camping cheers for the quick reply to,as im a spa havin a clue about paypal lol so will get someone else to do it for me,,can anyone tell me please is their a train nearer to the track then liege,,im kind of lost after Liège

    cheers
    from ireland

    1. Hi Antony,

      Liege than to VERVIERS. From Verviers are busses to FRANCORCHAMPS (NOT Spa!). When you are in Francorchamps call me someone will pick you up. If you don’t find a bus in Verviers – call me I will send a car.
      cu
      Michael

      1. ok michael thats cool,thanks very much,,,sorting out the paypal monday or tueday

        thanks again

  67. Phillip from Denmark
    20th February 2010, 13:03

    Hi,Is The Elephant campsite which seems to have rave reviews on this forum,a fairly level campsite or on a slope? Its just that from some of the photos on their website it looks like some parts of it have quite a slope to it.
    I only ask because we once had a bad experience camping on a sloping hill and the tent blew/fell down around 2 am !!

    1. Hi Philip,

      Francorchamps is in the mountains of the Ardennes/Eifel.
      You can be sure that I don’t make a camp near rocks and near an abyss.
      Have a look here and you will see: no one fall down from my camp …. ;-)

      >> http://francorchamps-camping.com/gallery/campside/album/index.html

      cu
      Michael

  68. Phillip from Denmark
    21st February 2010, 18:20

    Hi Michael,
    Thanks for the photos,looks like we will be staying with you for the GP weekend then !!;)

  69. Claire Parsons
    23rd February 2010, 9:41

    Hi Everyone

    I think I have managed to persuade hubbie that saving up to go to SPa is a great idea. I’ve never been to a Grand Prix before but have always wanted to go to Spa.

    A question for the experts;
    Which Grandstands are best?

    Michael from Elephant – do you have availability for a caravan with electric?

    Thanks
    Claire

    1. Hi Claire
      the best Grandstands are G3. And if you make it there you certainly won’t regret it! Spa was my first live GP too and I loved the place since!
      I am sure Michael will have space for you with electric.Just either go to his site or mail him on:
      f1@spa-francorchamps-camping.com
      Good luck and looking forward to seeing you there.

    2. Hi Claire,
      place for you and your caravan is no problem. Electic hook – you have to hury up with your reservation. Electric is not possible for every one. The electric is limited and quickly sold out.
      cu
      Michael

  70. Hi everyone,

    Just been reading through this thread after I finally bit the bullet and bought GA tickets for this years Belgium GP – my first GP abroad after seeing 4 at Silverstone across the years.

    Coming over with a mate, and having read a number of threads elsewhere that were not very complimentary about official campsites I have been brought back to the camping idea by this thread!! So hopefully we’ll be able to stay at the elephant, and have a cracking weekend!

    The next 6 months can actually not go quick enough!!

    Adam

  71. Adam
    we’ll look forward to seeing you there- am sure we’ll all have a ball!

  72. ‘lo all,

    To anyone thinking of going to Spa for the 1st time.. DO IT!! You won’t be disappointed. There’s something for everyone at Spa, from the fancy-pants Gold ticket holders we read of on this excellent forum (I’ll join u one day) to the General admission loving types like myself.

    I’ll admit that my experiences of Spa have been bitter sweet. I’ve been there in ‘08 and ‘09 and intend to go again this year. The trip didn’t exactly go to plan in ‘08. Someone posted earlier in the thread that they were concerned about the late despatch of their tickets, this is a fair concern. What if you’re leaving a few days prior to the race weekend to do a bit of travelling in Europe before heading for Spa, as I do? It can be a bit tight.

    Last year it wasn’t a problem, our tickets arrived a couple of weeks before the race, happy days, ‘08 wasn’t so good. The biggest ticket distributor for the Belgian GP seems to be Tellus Tickets, now renamed.. I forget what they’re named now.. tells you something about how you remember bad service much clearer than good service.
    In ‘08 we raised our concerns with Tellus that our tickets would arrive so close to our departure date, on the Wednesday of the week before the race. We were assured they’d be with us by then. Two days before departure we didnt have them, we were told that if they weren’t gonna make it to us by early Wed morn they’d go to the track for collection. They didnt turn up so we left, only to recieve a call as we travelled South from Brussels to say ur tickets were back in Scotland! As it dawned on Tellus they’d screwed up in a big way they had the presence of mind to tell us it was our problem, hang up and stop answering calls. So there we were-close to Spa with no tickets. Refusing to admit defeat we managed to book my mate on the early flight back to Scotland the next day (Friday), returning Saturday. He got back to our campsite late on Saturday, but at least we saw the race.

    Interesting postscipt to that one, when I heard that Tellus had setup an office at the track and went to it on Friday for a rant of great proportions I found that they had reprinted our tickets and had them there, just didn’t tell us that. We were not alone in not recieving our tickets in time, they had big problems that year.

    After many threatening emails Tellus gave us a couple of free tickets to the ‘09 race.

    I’ll reiterate.. we had no problems getting our ‘09 tickets and I think that after the fiasco in ‘08 they’re unlikely to repeat the same mistake.

    We camped both years at Eau Rouge campsite, a permanent site between the town of Stavelot and the southern end of the track. I think its a great site with good facilities and a good team of staff who allow everyone to have a good time, but wont let anyone away with really loud music through the night. Eau Rouge site will take your booking but pay in cash on arrival. It’s around a half hr walk maybe 40 mins slower walk to the entrances around Les Combes. I cant comment on the much mentioned Elephant campsite, probably just as good.

    Regarding good places to view.. In ‘08 we got tickets for Silver 3 grandstand, dont make the same mistake. I mistakenly thought you’d see the cars through Les Combes, maybe if you’re in the 1st couple of rows on the right of the stand you’d see them bear left in the second part of the corner and through Malmedy. Almost all the stand only see them exit Malmedy and accelerate away towards Bruxelles. We gave up on the grandstand and looked for a decent GA spot to stand at, deciding on standing above Liege. From there you get a decent view of them exiting Bruxelles, through Liege, into Pouhon and again at the top of the straight into the bus stop chicane, down the pit straight (binoculars needed at this point) into La Source and on the La Source exit. You are also opposite a big screen. Took this spot again last year with our GA tickets and debating whether to move to Les Combes GA viewing this year with a Kangaroo TV rental (no big screen there, but more likely to see some overtaking into Les Combes) If its a grandstand seat you’re after I’d listen to some of the the good advice offered by others on this forum on the Gold stands.

    On practice day have a good walk around the track and enjoy watching them from a lot of spots. If rains I’d advise enjoying watching someone overcook it at Pouhon, into the tyres (Alguersuari) and then see the magnificent Vettel find the absolute limit (as he tends to do in any practice)and go straight across Les Combes.

    Spa.. greatest track in the world, you’ll just love it.

    Rob

    1. ‘lo again

      reading so much about the Elephant campsite tempts me to go there this year.. it will be on the agenda as me my mates finalise our plans soon.

      The Eau Rouge site has a wee bar of its own, but no pubs nearby. It’s not far from Stavelot for buying food, I take it there are stores near the Elephant site?

      I wouldn’t like to think what time I’d have to leave that site on Sunday morn to get all the way down to Les Combes though.

      Rob

  73. Michelle from Newcastle
    2nd March 2010, 20:18

    Well just managed to get the time confirmed off work, we usually go to Silverstone, but after reading this thread are going to aim to do Spa, so going to book tickets for G3 and also the campsite in a wee while, then the channel tunnel, so will check back in once all that is done.

  74. Hi all,

    okay – everybody who have problems with tickets: I am leaving in Francorchamps and you can let send the tickets to my address and can pick it up on the campsite.
    cu
    Michael

    1. Michelle from Newcastle
      4th March 2010, 20:39

      Can anyone help please. On the http://francorchamps-parking.com/ website I cannot find anywhere to book the camping online. I’m not sure if it’s just my limited German or I’m just being a bit thick – I have emailed Michael but not heard back yet…

      or is booking just done by email.

      I’d be grateful for any input as I’ve booked the tickets and am desperate to get this confirmed so I can relax a bit!

      1. Hi Michele,

        On the web-site (http://www.francorchamps-camping.com/) click on the Elephant drawing towards the bottom of the page, just under where it says “New form for Reservation” and you’ll see what to do. Once completed and sent Michael will contact you and give details of how to pay.

        See you on Belgium!!

        Dave

        1. Michelle from Newcastle
          5th March 2010, 0:39

          Ahhhhh the elephant – now I didn’t spot that at all lol. Booking form sent off, so all that’s to work out now is when to come over from the UK as we have the week either side off, so will probs have a few more days somewhere in the area.

          I can start getting excited now!

          Michelle

          1. Michelle
            great to see another from my original neck of the woods is coming! Look forward to meeting you guys! If you got time before/after the race weekend then you must definitely take in Kerpen and visit the Schumacher track/museum and there are some lovely places around and about to visit/see depending on what you want to do!

          2. Claire & Rob Neal
            6th March 2010, 9:36

            We have booked a lovly little B&B in Bastogne and we are going to visit “The Battle of the Bulge” museum and the forest where they filmed “Band of Brothers” before we get to Spa. I would have loved to have had a wk off either side of the race but we are only going to be in belgium for 5 days but , BOY am i excited. A wk on sunday for the start of a season that promises to be a corker whoop whoop :) xxx

          3. Hi Michelle,

            yep – reservation form received well. Thanks.
            But at this time I am travelling a little, means I’m not at home and not in the office. Answer comes end of next week.
            Have a nice we
            cu
            Michael

  75. can anyone tell me plese are campers aloud use disposable barbeques or wee gas cookers for the fry up?,,im all booked,race tickets flights, camping ,..cant wait. im like cartman waiting for his Nintendo Wii to come out lol..will be taking it handy in amsterdam for a day or two before the race weekend then il be on a train to the nearest town to the track..

  76. Hi all
    great to see Spa is taking shape. If anyone has problems/worried about their tickets arriving on time then take up Michael’s offer- I have done this a couple of times and no problems. I know the GA tickets are the last to be sent out- so if you want to go GA then buy at the gate as it will actually cost less now as you will save the admin and postage costs if you have not booked already.
    As for facilities- you can go shopping nearby but the baker comes and brings bread and drinks and certain other things to order and the local pub is a must- great place and a museum of racing history to boot.
    Also we’ll be having a FOFA party sometime over the weekend (need to catch up with Michael about venue etc so more later)- our site is under construction but note this for the future.
    http://www.fofassociation.com and get involved folks!
    As for barbecues- just about anything goes within reason.
    Looking forward to next week when we finally get some action again!

    1. Hi Carol

      We have two 50th and one 21st birthday to celebrate in our family this year so have decided to do the Belgium GP.
      Thank goodness I found you and all your mates because at first it was a nightmare and I nearly gave up!
      We will be travelling in a 6 berth camper. I have e mailled Michael on all@the-elephant.de to see if he allows campers and to check for availability. Is this the correct address?
      Also we will be buying GA Tickets. Is it ok to buy at the track. Don’t they run out?
      Sorry if that sounds silly.
      Really enjoyed reading all the posts.
      Hopefully we will get sorted soon!
      Thanks

  77. Cool, well I’ve got my race tickets booked and my Kangaroo TV reserved. Have sent the form to Michael, will hopefully hear from him soon to confirm the price so I can get the money across to him. Catching up with my friends tomorrow and we’re gonna plan ferries (or whatever) and stuff. Whoop! And also what to go visit en route back home… we fancy extending the trip by a day or two and going to see some sights. Can’t wait!

  78. Hi all.I’m just looking for some information on camping at the Belgiun Grand Prix.I’ve come across two sites that interest me – ‘ the elephant ‘ which I know is well liked on here and recommended – Camping de l’Eau Rouge, which from a quote they gave me seems a lot cheaper.
    Could anyone give me some insight on why it is cheaper , the pros and cons of the two sites and any other information that could help me in my decision.
    thanks

    1. Hey Fan,

      I’ve stayed at Eau Rouge the last 2 years and can tell you a little about it.

      The site is permanent, meaning decent shower and toilet facilities and is large, meaning no problems with space if you’re arriving late.

      The settings around the site are beautiful, though I expect thats true of the Elephant site too. Its easily accessible by the bus from Verviers, just a ten min walk from the bus stop. It takes around a half hour to forty mins to walk from the site to the entrances around Les Combes.

      The site is run by an excellent team of staff, who will allow everyone to have a good time but won’t stand for any nonsense. Usual rules apply – no loud music through the small hours, no open fires I think.

      There is some food on offer on-site (burgers, sausage, frites) and some breakfast options too I think. There is also a small bar, which can get pretty lively.

      Its about a half hr walk from the site into Stavelot where you can pick up anything you need like groceries and camping gas, or get a meal or have a drink out. I did read in a previous post though that there’s not exactly a party atmosphere in Stavelot, incase thats what you’re looking for.. wouldnt know myself because I’ve never been out there after the race, too damn tired tbh.

      Not sure there’s much more to say. I dont know why it’s cheaper than Elephant. I’m thinking of giving Elephant a try this year.. I like the sound of a local pub and a bit more atmosphere nearby, but I expect you’d be happy at either site. Perhaps the proximity to wherever you want to be at the track could decide it.

      Anything else you want to know, just get in touch, all the best,

      Rob

    2. Hi F1Fan,

      Camping de l’Eau Rouge is a permanent camping in Francorchamps and not under the price dictation of the community of Francorchamps. They olso don’t have to pay the Event Tax.
      cu
      Michael

  79. Hi all,

    I am travelling for a few days.
    All mails and reservations I will answer end of next week.

    cu
    Michael

  80. Hi there,
    Myself and two friends have got three-day general admission tickets for this year’s race – really looking forward to it!

    Can anyone confirm if there is such a thing as a pitlane walkabout session on the Thursday or if that is just something I’ve made up? We’d like to know so we can plan our accommodation and travel arrangements around it.

    Also, do any previous visitors to the Elephant know whether it is possible to also stay there on the Sunday night after the race so we can head back on Monday?

    Thanks

    1. Hi supernicebob
      There is a pitlane walkabout on the Thursday afternoon- usually about 3 or 4pm (depending on how quick they open the gates up- Spa is not noted for being punctual on that score!).
      As for the Elephant- have stayed there personally each year since 2005 now and we usually arrive Wednesday (no problem) and staying sunday night and leaving Monday is no problem- do it myself as do loads of others (800km drive after the race would be just insane!)
      Look forward to meeting up!
      Cheers
      Carol

      1. Hi Carol
        Thanks for the info – very much appreciated. Looking forward to being there and meeting everyone (Sunday comes first though!)

  81. A bunch of us are planning on riding motorbikes to Spa this year. Does anyone know how easy/close the bike parking is? We’ll be staying about 15 miles away

    1. Hi Marie,
      some years ago there was a special bikes parking – last year not. But you can park your bike at The Elephant – security! (A police man and me are allways nearby)
      cu
      Michael

    1. It will! No worries!

      1. have a look here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=41jKVZLQ4_E

        But no problem – they are strong working …
        If the work is not finished … speed limited 30 km/h …. lol

  82. The track will be fixed by Easter although its costing a lot of dosh! So no worries for all of us by August!

  83. Hi guys,
    A few of us have decided to make it to Belguim this year for the race – our first GP since 2004. We’re looking at camping, is there still space available at the Elephant? Can I assume it’s within walking distance?
    Cheers,
    Andy.

    1. Andy
      it is about 15 minute walk to the track and I am sure Michael still has space available.
      Also they do have a shuttle service (if you are feeling weak!) all weekend except Sunday after the race.
      Look forward to seeing you there.

    2. Hi AndyB,
      yep – there is still space available if you make your reservation

      cu
      Michael

      1. That’s great, I’ll be sending an e-mail as soon as I get the lads sorted. Looking forward to it!

  84. Michael dear!
    Please respond to my last mail!

  85. best way to buy tickets for the Belgian GP Formel 1 >>
    http://www.spagrandprix.com/

  86. Hi Carol

    Without wanting to sound harsh on the Elephant I think we may go for one of the official camping sites, the green zone near Silver 3 seems to be the one. We’re sacking off going to creamfields to instead come to Spa so we kind of want the slightly chaotic atmosphere you say the official sites are! haha. One question though, is this really a good idea or is it a nightmare with parking etc?

    Cheers, i’ll bring plenty Newcy Broon.

  87. Harry
    I know the one you mean so its up to you. The place is pretty huge and you do end up getting crammed in. To me it looks pretty chaotic but maybe it is not as bad as it looks!
    Wave a Newcy Broon so we know who you are!
    Cheers
    Carol

  88. Janine & Shane
    19th April 2010, 6:48

    Hey Carol, Michael & all other F1 Fanatics. Shane & I are booked for Eau Rouge tix, flights from Oz and now camping at The legendary Elephant campsite. Yes I’m normally the princess, but I actually had to convince Shane that camping there was a great idea rather than spending lots and lots of Euro’s on a hotel. It just sounds like so much fun and the atmosphere is as important as the race I think. Now our problem is that we can’t hire a camper from Germany on a one-way hire (ie if we hire from Berlin have to take it back there which we really don’t have the time for) and we obviously can’t bring camping equipment all the way from Oz on the planes etc. So I’m wondering if anyone knows of anywhere we can hire camping equipment in Germany (pref Dusseldorf or somewhere close to Belgium) or in Belgium or nearby??? Otherwise we’re going to have to buy stuff and it doesn’t really seem a very economical thing to do considering we can’t bring any of it back with us. If we do have to buy stuff, does anyone know of a cheap camping store around those parts? After Spa, we’re off to see a wee bit of Europe and then turning up at Milan for the F1 there as well – anyone going there and any tips on accom etc???

    1. Adam n Melissa
      21st April 2010, 11:25

      Hey Janine and Shane, were travelling from OZ as well, we’ll be there at Spa and also at Monza. We booked hotel in Milan Starhotels Slendido, never stayed there before but hopefully will be ok.

  89. Janine & Shane
    19th April 2010, 6:53

    By the way Supernicebob, yu made me giggle, I also have to check if I have made things up, I take these weird pills for migraines and they give me the most lucid dreams and I have trouble working out if I have actually had certain conversations etc or if they were part of one of my weirdly realistic dreams.

  90. http://www.rentmobil.de/
    a company near Cologne who have still campers to hire for the last week of August.

    1. Janine & Shane
      20th April 2010, 1:18

      thanks so much michael, will have a look.

      1. Hi Janine and Shane
        good luck with the camper- they usually also hire out stuff like tables, chairs etc with the camper if you need so that may be a solution. Have a look at what they offer you and then send me a list by mail of what you atill need/are missing and we can see what we can provide you with (we are also in a camper so have room for extra stuff)- would seem silly for you to spend your hard cash on stuff you can’t transport back.
        Have a think and let us know!
        Look forward to seeing you there- you’ll love it!
        C

        1. Janine & Shane
          21st May 2010, 2:36

          Hi all, I know this is a dorky question but coming from Australia & trying to pack the bare minimum. Does anyone know what the weather will be like – coming mid august to mid sept and going to Amsterdam, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium of course and Italy (yay going to Monza as well as Spa? Wondering whether we should be packing warm coats & boots, wet weather gear that kind of thing or whether its really gonna be more shorts & tshirts? Any advice much appreciated… Thanks

  91. hi does anyone know if the offical campsites at spa allow campervans? It does not say on spa f1 site?

    1. Hi will m,

      yes, we do – see my web

      cu
      Michael

  92. Hi does anyone know if the offical campsites at spa allow campervans? It does not say on offical spa f1 site?

  93. Adam n Melissa
    21st April 2010, 11:29

    Any advice on where to pick up a campervan from Belgium.

    1. Hi Adam n Melissa,

      I have some some addresses to rent a Motorhome:
      but this site sees the listing as spammy.
      Please send me an eMail so I can tranfer the listing directly.

      greez
      Michael

  94. Janine & Shane
    22nd April 2010, 6:32

    Hi Adam & Melissa,I have found some in Dusseldorf that hire for minimum 7 days – everyone else seems to be min 14 days. I’m just in the process of booking one now but had same quotes from 5th gear & drive europe for just a bit over 800 euros. Are you staying at The Elephant in Spa?? We haven’t booked Milan yet but will be doing shortly. Look forward to meeting up with you. We’ll be the aussie & the kiwi with a Red Bull flag, a McLaren flag and a Sauber flag to boot…

    1. Adam n Melissa
      26th April 2010, 3:42

      Yer were staying at the Elephant, were from perth, Mclaren fans.

      1. Janine & Shane
        27th April 2010, 4:37

        hey we’re from Perth too – in Darch up near Wanneroo… what seats you got at Spa & Monza? We’re in Gold GP2 for Spa & in Ascari One for Monza.

        1. Adam n Melissa
          28th April 2010, 13:52

          Hey Janine & Shane, Spa we have seats gold 3 eau rouge, and Monza Alta Velocita C, were in Mt Lawley. How u going with campervan hire cause were having bit of trouble.

          1. Janine & Shane
            29th April 2010, 1:25

            Mine has just been confirmed overnight. Contact Shalini at res@rv-network.com – very helpful, she’s based in London and did heaps for us. Allow 7 day hire whereas most are 14 days. We have a Family Standard Camper with a camping set for 884 euro. Booked from Tues 24/8 to Tues 31/8 picking up and return to Dusseldorf. We’ll prob stay the first night in Dusseldorf and then heading to Brussels the next day – Shane heard about a campground with rollercoasters & rides nearby so he wants to stay there. Heading to Elephant Thurs 26/8, leave Monday morning 30/8 for drive back to Dusseldorf. We’re gonna drop camper off the day earlier and then flying to Munich that evening. Love to catch up if you guys are gonna be by yourselves too. My email is janinec@woodmazda.com.au.

  95. Janine & Shane
    22nd April 2010, 6:33

    Carol, thanks so much for all your help, I’m about to book the camper and I think we’ll just pay the 35 Euro for the table & chairs and try to pick up some cheap sheets & towels rather than paying the crazy rental on those. Everything else seems to be included…So excited now!

    1. Hey Janine and Shane
      let me know please what the camper has and what you still need.
      Sheets, towels and pillows etc we can certainly bring for you no probs- so as I said- just have a thunk and send me a list!We will be there from Weds onwards so no need to sleep on the grass for you!
      As for barbecues etc there are loads of us that will burn your food for you or whatever so don’t worry about that sort of stuff!
      Great to hear/read you are joining us at Elephant- am sure you’ll have a super time!
      Been there every year they had a race since 2005 and always had a super time with super peeps.
      Look forward to it- just booked my camper……..yeah!

      1. Janine & Shane
        27th April 2010, 4:30

        Oh my gosh Carol, you truly are the nicest person in the world… We’ve just booked the camper so we should be right but thanks so much for your offer anyway. We will def take up the bbq offer tho, so looking forward to meeting you..So looking forward to August!

  96. I am going to my 1st GP outside of Silverstone this year and am staying in the centre of Brussels. Does anyone know if I can book seats or a transfer to the track for each day or what the best way is to get to the track?

    Thanks
    David

  97. Adam n Melissa
    28th April 2010, 13:56

    Hi Michael, can u please send the addresses for motorhome, adam_ringrose@hotmail.com

  98. Hi All

    Did everyone else get the email today about the tickets not being delivered until early July for a “technical reason”? Not really a prob for me but I really do want to feel those tickets in my hand! :-)

    Interstingly Gold 8 (La Source) and Silver 3 (Malmedy) have already sold out. I’ve got Gold 4 (Eau Rouge) but did toy with Gold 8 so am going to try and see if I can see what the view is like from there.

    Just 4 months to go!

  99. Michelle from Newcastle
    3rd May 2010, 18:39

    yups I got that too, the email

    “Tickets delivery 2010 Belgian Grand Prix

    Dear Madam, dear Sir,
    Following a technical problem for a reason behind our control the expedition of your tickets will be delayed of a month time. That’s why you will receive them beginning of July and not beginning of June as it was planned.
    If you need to change your delivery address, don’t hesitate to contact us on info@spagrandprix.com
    Best Regards
    Spa GP Staff”

  100. Hi Everyone,

    Im interested in going to SPA this year, and im probably going to camp. I will probably get general admission tickets with a kangaroo TV as I have heard they are quite neat! I have not been to a race before, and although I am new here, I would like to meet some of you if possible at a camp site if that makes sense. Does anyone have any suggestions where to camp, do any of them have any pre-erected tents I could use? and general travel help (I will fly to brussels, and get a bus or something to verveirs I think its called?!). Any feedback or help will be much appreciated! :)

    Thanks
    Kingsley

    1. Oh and also if Darren White (earlier in this post) reads this, you said a booking from postcode BN16, I live in postcode BN12 so maybe not too far if you wanted to compare journeys or something like other people have done!

      1. Andrew White
        18th May 2010, 15:01

        Hi, did you mean me? I’m probably going to get the train to London and then get the Eurostar to Brussels. I haven’t booked it yet though.

    2. Hi Kingsley
      got your mail and tried to answer all your questions- hope you join us but let me know if there is anything else I can help you out with!
      Cheers
      C

      1. I wouldnt use a Kangeroo. Very expensive for what it is, and actually really quite crap. Poor & very small LCD (very hard to see in sunshine/bright conditions). Earphones are too quiet (cant hear over the cars) – and usually long queues to get them/take them back.

        I will be looking for a better solution this year at the british GP. Probably a combination of the live timing app from F1.com on my phone + maybe a portable DVB TV (if I can find a good one with a decent LCD in bright light) + the screens around the circuit.

        1. I’d say if you’re going for all three days and you’re not near a screen then do consider a Kangaroo. You do need to wear ear protectors over the earphones, though.

          As NJW says the queues to return them can be nasty.

  101. Hi,

    I’m lucky enough to be going to the Belgium Grand Prix this year. We’ve got tickets for grandstand opposite the pit lane and have a hotel booked in Liege. I was wondering if anyone has any tips on the best way to get from Liege to the circuit, I’ve heard it’s a bit of nightmare getting there by car so was wondering what the alternatives are.

    Thanks alot.

    Sue

    1. Hi Sue,
      it’s very easy. From Liege Highway No. 40 direction Aachen > cross Battice No. 42 direction Spa. Don’t go out at Spa > go to Exit No. 10 Francorchamps.
      http://francorchamps-camping.com/map.htm
      If you bock Parking at The Elephant you follow the green line to the Parking. If you book your parking at The Elephant you will get a special (free) pass to follow this (green) way without traffic jam. You will enjoy the race.
      cu
      Michael

  102. Hi all

    Well I took the plunge and booked a patch in Elephant. From reading comments here it sounds like a great spot. Coming from Ireland & plan on doing a 2 week road trip around France, Netherlands & Belgium. Spa seems like the perfect way to wrap it up!

    Question; would it be better to buy GA tickets online or at the gate? Do they ever sell out?

    Thanks!

    1. Hi Ronan,

      If you like to buy Tribune Tickets – do it online. Bronce Tickets you can do it online or infront of the gate – same price. Bronce Tickets you can have every time.

      Tickets here: http://www.spagrandprix.com/

      cu
      Michael

  103. Hi Carol (or anyone else that can help),

    I’ve been pouring over this great website as we are visiting Spa for the first time this year. Only thing is we will have our kids with us (8 & 6) and I’m after any suggestions for the best place to go with the kids. We’ve got GA and so was thinking of Pouhon or Fagnes (we want to be neaqr a screen) but am worried as to exactly how packed they get – don’t particularly want to lose the kids! If you or anyione can offer any suggestions about being at Spa with kids (where’s best to watch, how to entertain them if we are there really early etc.) I’d be really grateful.

    Cheers
    Kate

    1. Can’t be that helpful with your specific questions, sorry – but I will say make sure their ears are well protected! It is VERY loud. After witnessing parents take kids (some younger than yours) and not thinking about ear protection, I was horrified.

      One couple didnt think about it at all! after the cars first pass the kids were in tears (and probably pain). They had to borrow ear protectors from someone with a spare set!

    2. I’ll second njw’s comments regarding ear protection, it’s important for all to be aware that F1 cars are loud enough to cause permanent damage to anyone’s hearing and because childrens hearing is a lot more sensitive than adults, it WILL cause them pain and spoil the experience for all concerned. Not protecting a childs hearing at any motorsport event is imho a form of child abuse.

      As for entertaining them, my memory of SPA 2007 was the lack of entertainment for children outside of the race and the “merchandising area” at eu-rouge, which to be fair had a lot of thing’s for the younger fans, think racing games/simulators and interactive safety demonstrations (crash and roll over simulators) but all in, this would only keep the average child entertained for an hour or 2 at most and if your going GA then bring a well charged handheld entertainment device of some sort to keep them occupied in between the exciting stuff.

      We were in a stand in 2007 and away from most of the GA area’s so I can’t really comment on the crowds, but I do remember cueing in the traffic from Mastricht for 2-3 hours to get to the circuit on race day and almost missing the start as a result so make sure to leave plenty of time on race morning, to get to the circuit.

      1. Thanks njw and George for your comments. Do you think foam ear plugs are enough or do we need ‘proper’ ear defenders? I think you are right about hand held gadgets – we shall pack the DS. We are coming up from France on the saturday and staying half an hour away (in theory) so only there for race day. Plenty of snacks in the car for the traffic jams I think.

        1. I’d think full defenders for your kids (they do kids sized ones at the track usually? – atleast I saw some last time). The small inserts are fine (I use little rubber ones) but I dont think kids would cope well with them (they can get uncomfortable), and you probably wouldnt know if they’re in right – unless they sit perfect, they dont do the job).

        2. Myself and my wife would both use the in-ear foam type.

          We don’t have kids as yet, but the only happy looking children I’ve seen at any GP are the ones with the over-ear type defenders and some I suspect may even have in-ear foam ones as well.

          If we did have our own children I’d be doing my utmost to try and get them to wear both types simultaneously.

          I have great memories of Motorsport events as a child in the 1970’s but almost all of them are tinged by bad memories of the noise/headaches and I didn’t make it to a GP until 2006.

          1. Thanks guys – will probably go for both foam and full ear defenders. Now just need to resolve where to stand – what have we got ourselves in to, attempting this with kids?!!

    3. Hi Kate,

      We had a discussion on this at the start of the year you might find some helpful comments in:

      What age is too young for an F1 race?

      Enjoy the race!

      1. Hi Keith

        Thanks for the link. I’ve had a good read and I think what comes out of it is that they’re all different! My 6 (nearly 7) year old boy watches every race from start to finish, remembers who came in what position, crashes etc. It is expensive but we were driving back from France to Belgium that weekend anyway and so are taking the chance to fulfil a dream. The ear defenders are ordered and we shall just have to be imaginative as to how to entertain them!

        Thanks again,
        Kate

        1. Kate
          just read all your posts. If yourm kids got ear defenders and are happy that is the main thing. Also about where to sit/stand if you are GA- then join the most of us on top of the long straight- not too loud for the kids………you see plenty of action, big screen is there and if you are with us crazy bunch your kiddies won’t be bored either-because someone always needs to go look at something…….look forward to seeing you and the family
          Cheers
          C x

          1. Hi Carol

            Thanks for your reply. I think we may head for the straight as you suggest – looks like everything we will need will be there, plus possibility for some overtaking action. See you there!

            Cheers,
            Kate

  104. Claire & Rob Neal
    10th May 2010, 12:13

    Hi guys, what is the traffic like on the monday morning after the race to get back to the euro tunnel? what are the rules of bringing gas with you (for camping stove) ? Any suggestions as to traveling via eurotunnel v ferry and is it necessary to book in advance or just turn up? cheers guys I can wait :)
    Claire xxxx

  105. Hi Clare & Rob,
    When we left mid morning on the monday,there was hardly any trafic just the normal motorway traffic.
    As for the gas,no problems as long as you not thinking of taking a gas tanker !!
    We took the ferry as its cheaper than the tunnel,I think it was around £60 return for 4 + car with Norfolklines Dover-Dunkirk route.
    I would advise you book asap as it will be much cheaper than leaving it til last minute, also if you book you will have a guaranteed place just in case that pesky volcano starts to play up again !!
    Hope that helps and enjoy the weekend.
    Phillip

  106. I found this document:

    http://www.spa-francorchamps.be/en07/home/pdf/acces-spectateur-e.pdf

    gives quite good directions if nobody has found this already!

    Kingsley

    1. Thanks Kingsley. That’s great!

    2. Great document – thanks!

      Kate

  107. How do I get from Gold 3 to Pouhon? Where do we cross the track?

    1. Under a tunnel at Eau Rouge and then walk the paths to the viewing on the infield at Pouhon. There’s normally a screen opposite too.

  108. Thanks for that – very useful..

  109. Hello F1 enthusiasts!
    i am going to Spa this year with my best friend Meghan, we decided to go as i had been to races before but she hadnt so i really had to take her! we are only 16 and are grateful that our parents are letting us go! we are soooooo excited but we really need advice on where to sit as we have general admission tickets for the weekend but want to sit somewhere with the best view and preferabley with a big screen in view! can anyone help us out?? we would really apreaciate it! thankyou!!!

    1. If you’re there for the weekend try out a few places on Friday / Saturday morning. There are great viewing areas at Spa on GA tickets. Pouhon is great with a huge bank and a screen opposite and you can get a good space fairly easy on during practice. Kemmel straight is good again has a screen in the middle of the straight you can even see down to start / finish from here although at a very long distance. There’s also good spots over by the chicane area. There is not much GA round Eau Rouge. take some good walking boots the walks between spots are quite long and very hilly. Once you have found your fav spot get there early on race day..before 7am.
      Most of all stay safe and enjoy!

  110. Hi All

    Oatsey here from Ireland going to spa this year cant wait. Would love to see a Ferrari one two. A friend and I will be staying at the Elephant campsite with our tent in hand, due to the excellent advertising by Carol on the previous threads which made the planning of this trip very easy indeed so thank you carol and associates. We will be arriving Thursday lunch time so we get to meet the drivers by flying into Brussels airport then getting on a train and finally a bus to Francorchamps. We have general admission tickets which is going to be awesome as were both keen walkers/hikers. I suppose we’ll buy loads of food in Brussels before we arrive at the track. looking forward to meeting other formula one enthusiasts on track and at the campsite no matter the weather.

  111. Hi Guys,

    I am now coming over from the UK via eurostar as its way cheaper through work and I can get first class woop.

    Found directions from the brussels station so all is good!

    cant wait.

  112. Hey everyone,

    Getting amped for the belgian GP. I was just wondering are there any people besides me staying on the Landal park: Villages les Gottales?

    Etienne

  113. Hey everybody

    so looking foward to the belgium gp, i am a massive F1 fan and have never been. it has been a dream of mine for a while. it just had to be spa for my first race its my fav track.
    i werent sure bout where to sit, i thought what they hey may not do it again so went for Gold 2 hope view is good

    booked through a motorsport travel company called select motor racing , go by coach on thur then come back on mon, staying in holland they take you to the track and back so thats all sorted

    cant wait till aug
    cool to hear peoples experiences

  114. Paul & Faith
    20th May 2010, 14:07

    We are visiting Spa this year for the first time. This will be my fourth GP having visited Silverstone 2008 & 2009 and Budapest 2008. This is Faiths first after becoming more interested in it during the 2009 season.
    We will be travelling from the Midlands and spending a week in Belgium, ending in Bruges for our Anniversary.

    Just sent the enquiry form for a spot at the Elephant for Sat and Sun (camping virgins so keep it to a minimum) and Hotels for the rest of the trip.

    Can we do the track walk on Thursday with GA tickets?
    If so can we buy GA tickets on Thursday and then be granted access to do the track walk?

    Thanks

  115. Hi Paul and Faith
    good choice and you will love the place. You can buy your GA tickets on the door Thursday- you can’t walk the track on that day but you can do the pitwalk- worth it!
    Walk the track Friday- it will take you all day and you can then also decided where you want to be on race day- it is amazing and when you see Eau Rouge in the flesh and hear the echoes around the valley you will be hooked!
    Don’t worry about camping- we are a friendly bunch and would love to see you!
    Cheers
    Carol

    1. Hi Carol

      My wife and I will be coming up early on the thursday as well. Apart from walking the track what else do you recommend to spend Friday doing? Is there anything else within walking distance from the campsite that you would recommend for first timers? Is the museum at the Abbey any good?

      Thanks
      Simon

      1. Hi Simon
        if you walk the track Friday and also take in the practices and other support practices etc you will be busy most of the day. Depends what you want to do/see. How early are you arriving Thursday? The pitwalk is usually around 3:30 (they are not punctual in opening the gates but we’ll see if we can persuade them to be on time this year……) but do spend some time in the local villages and enjoy the scenery- the area is really spectacular (we wanted to do this last year but got bogged down with Rosberg doing a TV- stint on the site so we never got far…….was a crazy morning!)
        I just hope the weather is kind to us (it certainly helps with the race weekend being end August now and not mid/late September- it makes a huge difference!)
        Also please don’t miss our meetup at Cafe Bertrand Friday evening!
        Cheers
        Carol

        1. Thanks Carol

          We should get through the tunnel to Calais by 8am on thursday morning so planning to get to the circuit by lunchtime. Will probably head straight to the Elephant to park then walk down to the circuit for the first time and have a look around plus do the pit walk.

          Will be there at Cafe Bertrand on Friday evening!
          Simon

  116. Hey all! Myself and a friend have booked two bronze tickets for the 2010 weekend. We are flying into Brussels from Dublin (thur-tues) and from there are a bit undecided. If anyone could point us in the right direction it would be a great help!! Firstly, should we get a car or train it?? I want a car but my mate reckons the train system in Belgium is brilliant. I went to France GP and if the location is anything like that, I think a car is the best bet! When we’re there we wanna camp …. any suggestions? Were looking for the perfect (possibly unattainable) combo!! …. i.e close to track/decent enough facilities and good craic/fun with other fans! camping de l’eau rouge looks nice but a little quiet!! and also which town tends to have the best atmosphere/entertainment and which nights!! thanks for any help!!

    1. Alright Paul

      Oatsey here from Newbridge. I’ll be flying into Brussels Thursday morning with Aer Lingus (flight departing at 6.50am). Then a friend and I are getting a train to Verviers Central (tickets are 35 euro return) then a bus to Francorchamps. We are staying at the Elephant which should meet all your requirements although i have not stayed there personally, thou there are plenty of people on this forum that will vouch for it (a 15 min walk to track entrance).

      1. Hi Paul and Oatsey
        would be great to see you and if you get probs in getting from bus/trains stations then buzz Michael and he will arrange a fetch no problem.
        We are a “quiet” site in that we don’t have German country music blaring till breakfast…..but if for example you take my partner he managed not to make it to bed to sleep for 5 days last year- we have music and folks and just party in our own way and you can join in as much or as little as you want to without missing out on your beauty sleep if you want to do that- on the other hand if you want to stay up all night you can do that too. Sure you guys will be fine and have a time to remember!
        Cheers
        Carol

  117. We are from the US and are planning to attend the Belgian Grand Prix. Since so many rooms are already booked, we opted for a place in Aachen, that was in our price range. I plan to order the tickets this week from the circuit but am concerned about delivery of the tickets. Should I be concerned that they will not be delivered in time? We are leaving the US on August 24. I emailed the circuit for assistance but no response yet. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

    1. Connie
      you should be fine with delivery of your tickets but if you are unsure check with your hotel if they can be delivered to you there- then you will have peace of mind. Would be my suggestion as I have had panics myself in previous years………
      Regards
      Carol

    2. Hi Connie

      We had the same worries last year coming from the UK, but you should be fine if you order them from the official site (www.spagrandprix.com). Last year our tickets were delivered in June, and this year we have received an e-mail to say they are slightly delayed and will be dispatched in early July instead. Most people we spoke to who had ‘late’ ticket deliveries had ordered them from other ticket agencies.

      Hope that puts your mind at rest!

      Catherine

  118. Janine & Shane
    26th May 2010, 2:31

    Hi all, I know this is a dorky question but coming from Australia & trying to pack the bare minimum. Does anyone know what the weather will be like – coming mid august to mid sept and going to Amsterdam, Germany, Switzerland, Belgium of course and Italy (yay going to Monza as well as Spa? Wondering whether we should be packing warm coats & boots, wet weather gear that kind of thing or whether its really gonna be more shorts & tshirts? Any advice much appreciated… Thanks

    1. Hi Janine and Shane
      whilst August/September are still technically “summer” months the weather can be really hot (which is great) but it can also be chilly so you will definitely need the odd pullover or two and rain protection is a must in this part of Europe!
      So whilst you won’t need snow boots you do need the odd warm woolly and jacket and as I said rain gear you will dfinitely need (at Spa it will be guaranteed to rain sometime over the weekend).
      Hope this helps!
      Cheers
      Carol

      1. “Technically” now we have spring – 28th May – 01:45 h – 2,8 °C …..
        Weather in Francorchamps is very special …
        cu
        Michael

        1. tztztz – 18.06.2010 – Summer – dry , 14,6°C
          grrrrrr

          1. wonderful – also in Francorchamps we have summer and more than 30°C :-)

  119. Hello, myself and three friends are attending this years F1 race at Spa, none of us have been to watch F1 before so were all pretty excited!! We driving over via the channel tunnel and planning on staying somewhere in france or belgium on the thursday night, if anyone can recommend some great roads for us to sample that would be great. We have bought a 3day pass and camping at the circuit as we want to be in the thick of the atmosphere all weekend!! Any tips regarding the camping at the track would be great also!!

    1. Hi Nathaniel
      if you got three day tickets then try and make the pitwalk on the Thursday afternoon.
      Which campsite are you staying at? The one near the entrance just after Les Combes is huge and pretty busy so I expect you will have loads of action there.A load of us are at elephant which is just off the Eau rouge entrance.
      Whatever you do walk the track on the Friday- its great fun up and down the valleys and really awesome to hear the cars shooting past you literally a few feet away!
      Because the track is in a valley you get these terrific echoes which you don’t hear on TV. Sure you’ll have a great time!
      Cheers
      Carol

  120. thanks oatsey and carol! just to be sure, carol, is the campsite you are talking about elephant??

  121. ok, lazy me has just been going through the old posts and see that it is elephant. have just filled in the reservation form! thanks again

  122. Hi Carol
    how are we for power ???
    just thinking lights etc in our tent, if possible ???

    big gas BBQ coming with us, rough eta 1ish Thursday so far.

    Little Darren

    1. Hey Darren
      have you booked power? If you are next to us though sure you can sponge of us…..will sort with Michael as power sources are limited! Big BBQ sounds good!
      We arrive Weds and will be in the paddock sometime thursday- not sure quite when though- if we don’t catch up beforehand we’ll see you in the pitlane around 3:30pm!
      Will be making a list of those from here and FOFA site who are coming…..want a proper huge group photo this year !
      Cheers
      Carol

      1. Darren Ward
        29th May 2010, 7:14

        Hi Carol,
        didnt think of booking power, sponging would be good, as long as Michael is ok.
        best sent Daz a photo of ur weekend home, so we know where we are going.
        3.30 sounds good
        see you there
        Darren

        1. Darren Ward
          29th May 2010, 7:15

          (i meant send, not sent)
          D

          1. Darren
            no probs! Talked to Michael and we sorted the power stuff and you guys parking next to us. No worries there!Don’t worry either- everyone knows me there (oh dear) so whoever is on duty at the time will point you guys in the right direction should we not be on site at the time you guys arrive!
            You can’t miss us with the huge FOFA sheet hanging out all over the place! Can’t send you a pic of the camper as not a clue exactly what we are getting yet…..
            Getting excited now but if the reds contiue so badly I am seriously thinking of getting a red bull shirt…………oof!
            Cheers
            C

  123. For those of you not in Europe, how do you generally pay for the campsite/B&B at the Elephant? We normally book via credit card in the US…Money transfers are not commonplace when it comes to reserving campsite/rooms. Registered letter – would that be a euro money order (if we can get one) or a regular bank check? Maybe the easiest is Paypal – does that convert to euro automatically? Any help would be appreciated. I haven’t heard from Michael in a couple days. Can’t wait to join all you F1 fanatics!!!!

    1. Connie
      I think you sorted that one with paypal now as Michael confirmed he got your payment. You have my email addy if you have any other concerns so please let me know and we’ll get you fixed up!
      Looking forward to seeing you there.
      Regards
      C

    2. Connie,
      please email again. no mail received yet.
      cu
      Michael

  124. Will be sending deposit to Michael shortly, it becomes real! looking forward to meeting all of you at elephant!

    P.S. What is FOFA? :)

    1. ignroe me, i just guessed Formula one fans association. do you guys have a proper website? the blogspot one hadnt bene updated in a while..

      btw is the shuttle service reccomended or not? :)

  125. Hi All,

    Fulfilling 2 ambitions this year. Spa F1 & taking my motorbike for a run into Europe!

    Have got our weekend GA tickets booked and waiting to hear back from Michael for our Elephant campsite booking (2 motorbikes from the UK for Thurs-Sunday nights).

    Anyone else heading to Spa from the UK via motorbike? Shortest route for us is about 500miles but we’re leaving on the Wednesday morning to take the (hopefully) more scenic route up to Dover then SouthEast from Calais before heading East into Belgium. Aiming to be at the Elephant on Thursday afternoon.

    Anyone with ideas on the best (or worst) routes to take just shout.

    Also, I take it there’s places not too far from the Elephant to grab some dinner? As we’re travelling on motorbikes we don’t want to carry too much!

    RR

    1. Hi RR
      sorry I can’t help you much with routes as we come from totally the opposite direction (Dresden) but sure you’ll be fine. There are places to eat round and about but if you feel you can’t be bothered after a hard day at the track then join us for a steak or sausage or whatever. Barbecues start off great but the last evening does usually produce some amazing concotions…….

  126. Hi RR
    We’re doing something similar, 3 or so of us on motorbikes and we’re going to stay en route taking in some nice roads. Not camping though – have found something not too far away.

    I’m at marie at musicademy dot com if you want to get in touch at all.

  127. I just hope Spa is as good as Canada today. What a cracking race. I really can’t wait for August now. This is shaping up to be a great year.

    Really looking forward to meeting everyone at The Elephant. We’re arriving midday’ish on Thursday so hpoe there will be a few others there then as well.

    1. Dave
      Montreal really showed why it should be on the calendar- great race! Spa will also be great I promise you- the sound in those valleys is awesome!
      We will be there from Wednesday and it seems quite a few are arriving Thursday- shoudl be a gas! Look forward to seeing you all there!

  128. Our tickets arrived this week and after watching the Canadian Grand Prix i am psyched and I’ll make sure to wear ear protection. Thanks for the reminder all

  129. Our tickets arrived this week and after watching the Canadian Grand Prix i am psyched and I’ll make sure to wear ear protection. Thanks for the reminder

  130. Carol
    Thanks for the food information. We may just gate-crash your BBQ!

    Marie
    Looks like our route plans are still evolving. I’ll contact you when I know for sure. Looking now at a ferry to Cherbourg on Wednesday morning then riding through Normandy before heading over towards Belgium. We’d prefer to spend more time on French roads than UK. The Cherbourg to Caen coastal route is more interesting. Still aiming to be at the camp site for Thursday afternoon. It’s a longer route but should be worth it.

    What originally started as a 3-4 day weekend car trip has turned into a week-long motorbike mini-adventure! Race tickets are booked, camping at the Elephant is confirmed (arriving Thursday, leaving Monday morning) so just the ferry to sort now.

    10 weeks to go, and counting. Best get the bike serviced soon!

  131. Im still waiting for Michael to give me some money information about paying for my reservation.. havent heard from him in 2 weeks. Carol, know anything?

    bring on the spa!

  132. Kingsley
    will get onto him- do you have any details? Will drop you a mail. Spoke to Michael yesterday but will chase him up!
    Got my tickets today so am over excited at the moment!
    Will be checking your tent out over the weekend and seeing what we have/ need!
    Back to football now- France v Mexico……hmm

  133. Hi Carol,

    I’ve made the reservation at elephant, but I had a payment question for him, sent him a couple of emails but to no avail. I wnat to pay by paypal, but he wants an 8 euro charge on top of that, If I am to pay in installments, do I have to pay an 8 euros every time or just the once? that was my question! just booked flights and ticket so woop woop!

  134. Hi Kingsley
    just talked to Michael- no probs-send your deposit and the rest you can either send the same way or pay in cash on arrival. Up to you. Got my tickets today so am now totally excited- can’t wait!

  135. Claire & Rob Neal
    18th June 2010, 6:32

    Oh wow people are getting their tickets :) when do the General Admission tickets get sent out? im soooooo excited. We are stopping off at Bastogne on the thurday and have a B&B booked for that night so will be arriving at the elephant on friday morning, tent’s getting pitched and then off to see those beautiful cars in action :D. Cant wait to meet you guys xxxx

    1. Hi Claire and Rob
      it depends on where you bought them from- I got mine two days ago so expect you’ll get yours soon.
      Cheers
      Carol

  136. Carol,
    Sorry to be bothering you with this but you seem to be point of contact for Michael at Elephant? He sent me the invoice for camping fee and I wanted to do a bank transfer but I need to know the country location of his bank account. The bank appears to be in Aachen which is in Germany. Ive tried that but the IBAN code he gave me is incorrect for both Germany and Belgium. I emailed him at the f1-reservation email address but no response! Any help would be greatly appreciated!
    Thanks
    Paul C

    1. Can’t you pay him using PayPal? That’s what I did.

  137. Paypal was an option but wanted to do it via bank transfer. Anyway, Michael has been in touch just now. Itll take more than an IBAN code to keep me from SPA!!! Thanks for the help, Paul

    1. Paul C,
      the IBAN code is from our Germany bank and it is correct. Not Belgian Bank!

      cu
      Michael

  138. Michelle & Alan from Newcastle
    18th June 2010, 14:42

    Woo hoo, just had a call from home, our tickets have arrived :D Eau Rogue here we come!!

    Can’t wait – we’re staying overnight in Calais on weds night, and travelling to campsite on Thursday so hopefully get there on the pitlane walk to start off an amazing weekend.

  139. Yay! Tickets have arrived here as well. Other half and I are at the eau rouge as well in gold 4, block b , row 1. Not letting these tickets out of my sight til then!

    Will be there on thursday morning.

    Michael – can you fix the weather as well :-) Rain on saturday to throw up the qualifying slots and then lots of sunshine on sunday

    See you all at the elephant!

    1. Great stuff Simon!
      As for the weather- no-one can fix that!
      Look forward to meeting you there.
      Cheers
      Carol

    2. Hi Simon,

      today in Francorchamps 32°C *yuhuuuu*
      Hope last week of August summer will stay also in Francorchamps.
      BTW: today at SPA — 35°C – 12 km from Francorchamps ….. ;-)

      cu
      Michael

  140. Me too! Tickets arrived via FedEx at work this morning. They’re a bit boring (no hologram or fancy pictures and no wallet to put them in) but who cares, they’re here.

    As for the weather, all you can guarantee is that you always get some kind of weather at Spa! Sun would be great but I’ll be happy if it stays dry otherwise the long bike ride may not be as much fun as I’d hoped.

    :)

  141. Good to hear Bloggs! As for the fancy lanyards, wallets and ear plugs- who needs that! You can buy that sort of stuff dirt cheap at the track from your fave team at a fraction of the price! A ticket is a ticket!
    Can’t wait- hope to make Hockenheim this year too- will know next week if its a roll or not!
    Cheers
    C

  142. Hi, I’m thinking of getting a Kangaroo TV and going to Les Combes for the race. I’ve read people complaining that Kangaroo TV doesn’t have 100% coverage around tracks, can anyone confirm they’ve used KTV at Les Combes before?
    2nd question – Obviously a good spot at Les Combes will involve being pretty much 1st through the gates in the morning, does anyone know when they’ve previously opened the gates in the morning and are there already hoardes of GA ticket holders?

    1. Hi Rob
      know a couple of people who used KTV last year and said it was great. No problems at Les Combes.
      Yes you do have to get to the track early if you want to grab a good spot on raceday as last year it got pretty full! Gates open 7am. No coffee etc though till 8 am! Also it is damned cold till the sun comes up (if it does) so dress warmly for the early start or you will be miserable (you get very cold legs esepcially so a rug or something is highly recommended!)
      Regards
      Carol

      1. Thanks Carol,

        I’ll go ahead and book my KTV now, looking fwd to watching from Les Combes as I expect a good bit of overtaking there this year with the F-duct effect.

        So thats gonna mean something like a 5.30am wake up.. Maybe I’ll pack my sleeping bag and grab a snooze once I’ve claimed a good spot!

        Thanks again,
        Rob

  143. did anyone get there GA tickets yet?

    1. Hi Anthony,

      aome of our guest let send their tickes to me. It received well. This year the ticket office send ist quickly. Means the ticket office of spagrandprix.com from the circuit Spa-Francorchamps.

      cu
      Michael

  144. Claire & Rob Neal
    4th July 2010, 18:01

    We haven’t yet though i think some people have on here it depends on where you bought them from, apparently ours will be here 1 wk before the race… eeekk …thats cutting it a bit fine for my liking, but we dont leave to travel to Belgium till the wednesday night so should be here in plenty of time, fingers crossed
    Looking forward to watching the British Grand prix this weekend :) come on JB xxx

    1. Should you find that your tickets havent arrived with time to spare I would try to arrange with your ticket supplier to pick them up at the track. I’m also a little nervous as I leave on the Tuesday.

      2 years ago I had a near disaster with tickets not arriving before leaving, only to be compounded by our company not telling us on the phone (as we travelled south from Brussels) that they would reprint them and hold them at the track for us. They wrongly told us someone would have to return to Scotland to pick them up! Which we just managed with a Herculean effort.

      I doubt the company (then Tellus Tickets, now called the Ticket Enterprise I think) would repeat the same mistake, just if there’s any doubt, arrange a track pick-up. No such problems last year.

  145. We ordered ours from the track. We received them a couple weeks ago, fedx’d to the USA. We can’t wait. The tour de france is going to Spa tomorrow so we’ll be able to see some of the countryside around the track.

    1. First time at Spa?

      If it is you’re in for a real treat, there is no better racetrack.. so dramatic to walk up through the hills then see the track revealed before you, its just so perfect especially as the morning sun breaks over it.. you’ll realise you’re in motorsport heaven. The way the weather changes is great too, often reminds me of the Scottish Highlands. Man I’m getting too excited now..

      Hope you have a great time, Rob

    2. Connie,

      tztztztz … the circuit is NOT in SPA! The name of the circuir is Spa-Francorchamps. Paddock and main entrance are in Francorchamps. If you stopp in Spa to see the race … 14 km walk … ;-)

      Some pix:
      http://www.google.de/images?num=100&hl=de&newwindow=1&safe=off&rlz=1B3GGGL_deBE337BE337&q=fagnes&um=1&ie=UTF-8&source=univ&ei=1Ew2TKe6NcjKjAeuoc34Aw&sa=X&oi=image_result_group&ct=title&resnum=4&ved=0CEEQsAQwAw

      cu
      Michael

  146. I’m hoping to do my tickets soon, but our supplier cant do individual orders, so I have to wait until the company does them for spa too. but flights booked and so is camping at elephant. all set for a good weekend!!

  147. Hi all- great taking shape.
    Great to hear you got sorted Kingsley- we aired and checked your tent at the weekend- its fine so you’ll be ok with it!
    As for those who are getting panicky with tickets- if they don’t arrive in the next week get them redirected to Michael’s office and he’ll hand them to you on arrival- its what I did last year and worked fine.
    If anyone needs/wants the address then send me a quick mail and I’ll forward on to you.
    Can’t wait- Silverstone this weekend- then off to Hockenheim- and then its SPA!
    Cheers
    Carol

  148. i ordered them from spa tickets.be

    found the email from them ,it says 2 weeks before the race,

    ferrari 1 2 for sliverstone ;)

    1. Hi Anthony,

      a guy from Argentinia ordert from spagrandprix.com, also direktly fro´m the circuit, 3 day later the ickets reiceved to me. If u worry redirect your tickets to me. Address u have.

      cu
      Michael

      1. im not sure about your address could you email me it ples

  149. Janine & Shane
    6th July 2010, 3:41

    Woohoo – 44 days til we leave for beautiful Europe. Got Spa & Monza tix now…most stuff booked, hopefully enuf money saved and excitement level is up thru the roof! So excited and can’t wait to meet as many of you as we can! Go Webber!!!

  150. Carol, Are you going to Silverstone?

    1. Hi Anthony
      sadly not. Spa is my annual pilgrimage but we are doing Hockenheim this year too. Can’t wait!

  151. Hi, I’m planning a trip to Spa this year and we’re looking at Bronze tickets. Apparently its cheaper to buy these at the race which would be a plus as some of my friends are coming from Andorra and the postal system is not to be relied on. My main concern is that tickets will be sold out – is this a possibility? We’re arriving Friday morning and I suppose we’d ideally prefer to buy in advance and pick up when we get there – is there a site that allows you to do this?
    Thanks in advance

    1. Hi Paul,
      Bronze Tickets are never sold out. U can buy it from the office infront of the main entrance. But I don’t know how the price will be this year.
      The site to order directly from the circuir: http://www.spagrandprix.com

  152. We got our tickets direct from http://www.spagrandprix.com and they arrived in the UK via FedEx a couple of weeks back. They do allow delivery to an address other than your credit card billing address.

    Reading the previous posts from Carol & Michael, it’s possible to get them delivered to Michael’s office then pick them up from the campsite when you arrive (assuming you’re staying at The Elephant). Maybe worth contacting him?

  153. Claire & Rob Neal
    7th July 2010, 15:45

    Micheal or Carol
    please could we get our F1 tickets sent to the elephant cause they are not getting sent out till 7-10 days before the race and i think we will be cutting it a bit fine as we leave on the wed before the race.
    Cheers
    Claire x

    1. Claire
      please drop me an email to
      carol.treurnicht@arcor.de and I’ll send you details of Michael’s address so you can redirect.
      Don’t panic!
      Look forward to seeing you there!
      Cheers
      Carol

  154. Thanks Bloggs, unfortunately we’re not staying at the Elephant although it sounds fantastic and we’ll pencil it in for next year. I’ll order from the website you recommended unless anyone knows of a site that allows pick up at the race?
    Cheers,

    Paul

    1. Paul
      do that!
      I had a panic a year or so ago as the agency sent their tickets out via Bahrain…..from Belgium to Germany via Bahrain/Paris and god knows where……hairy tracking this shipment….
      Best is- if you are travelling from afar to get them delivered to your place of stay. Or order direct fromd the tracksite as they send out 1-2 months earlier.
      Also got ripped off 2 years ago as they charged me GBP for €………just watch out folks!

  155. Hi All!

    Hope everyone is well! Tickets arrived here in the US about three weeks ago. Happyhappy!

    We’re making our plans for our big Europe trip (in addition to Spa, we’re doing Brussels, Brugge, Amsterdam, Paris and London) and I’m trying to figure out what events happen on Thursday before the race? Is there a pit walkabout, and if so, does anyone have any idea on time? We’re in Brussels leading up to Thu, when we move to our hotel in Liege, so I’m planning train travel/timing, etc.

    Thanks a ton!! Can’t wait for the race!

    1. Hi Andrea
      pitwalk is usually Thursday afternoon around 3:30pm (they are however not that punctual in opening up the gates so it gets quite crazy!) But well worth it.
      Cheers
      Carol

  156. hi, was wondering where the best place to meet drivers outside the track is? i.e where they stay etc as would really like to meet one!

  157. CharlieAndSuzie
    15th July 2010, 22:41

    I’ve just ordered my tickets (Bronze weekend) from spagrandprix.com, instructed my bank to send payment for a stay in the Elephant campsite and booked my Eurotunnel ticket – Spa 2010 will be our first GP ever and we’re VERY excited!

    After reading the many great tips on this forum, we’re planning to arrive on the Thursday morning and take things from there. Woohoo!

    1. Hey Charlie and Suzie
      great to hear- we look forward to meeting you there. You will love Spa- whatever the weather does! Will be offline for a few days as we are off to Hockenheim on Wendesday………
      Cheers
      Carol

  158. Yae !!! tickets have arrived !!!!

    1. Great stuff Darren- tell little Darren my baguette is getting nicely dried out……..
      Cheers
      Carol

  159. CharlieAndSuzie
    16th July 2010, 23:19

    Is there any need to book a Kangaroo TV in advance, or is it possible to just pick one up at the circuit?

    1. Hi Charlie and Suzy
      no need to book in advance- you can get these at the track. I am not sure what methods of payment they accept though and its a bit hairy giving them back after the rqace (long queues so I am told).
      Cheers
      Carol

  160. Just booked 2 bronze for the 3 days and camping (on the main site – we can cope with loud Germans!) all via spagrandprix.com! First time to a GP!

    Plan to travel from the UK on Eurostar. Anyone done this before? Whats the connection like in Brussels and getting from Verviers to the circuit on the Thursday afternoon?

    1. I was considering getting the eurostar from the UK, with an onward connection to verviers. I think its then a bus ride about 45 mins fro verviers to francorchamps..

      1. Verviers to the circuit is a short bus trip. Buses leave from right outside the station. My friend deals with trains / buses while I do flights, so let me know if u want more info and I could get it from him. Verviers is a beautiful town, spare it a little time if you can.

        1. Hi hovis,

          if you booked the camping also from spagrandprix the camping will be at Les Combes. the south side of the circuit near Malmedy. Means you have to go to from Verviers Gare Central to Malmedy by bus and than find a was to Les Combes.
          Take care – very dirty toilets …

  161. Andrea Frederick
    17th July 2010, 17:29

    We’re staying in Liege and plan on doing the Verviers to francorchamps, as well, for Thursday. Perhaps we’ll see you!

    We’re a little bit stung about having to do an hour ride back and forth each day for four days of race week end, but the way our trip sorted out, camping just wasn’t an option for us, and Liege was the closest we could get a hotel in that didn’t leave us poor!

    (we’re going to be in Europe for 15 days from the States.)

  162. Travel plans are coming together..just got 1st class rail tickets Amsterdam to Verviers for less than 40 Euros.. gotta love European rail services.

    Have a great time in Germany Carol!

    1. hi rob did you book it online,im flyin in to amsterdam thursday before the race.

      cheerz

    2. Hi Rob

      Can you send me a link to where you bought the train tickets.

      Cheers Oatsey

      1. Sorry Oatsey, Anthony,

        my mate who books the trains is away on a beach hol, I can get the link from him soon as he’s back but that won’t be til the end of this week.

        1. Thats no problem man, talk to you soon.

          1. Anthony / Oatsey,

            My mate booked our tickets on the Belgian Rail Service website..

            http://www.b-europe.com/Travel

  163. Hi everyone,
    Just wanted to join in by saying I’ve booked my tickets to Spa today, Gold 4. Not sure where we’re staying yet, camping sounds like a blast. Have I left it too late ?
    Planning on putting an air bed in our people carrier and sleeping in that.
    Any help or tips would be a god send please.

    1. it’s not to late for booking a camping.
      cu
      Michael

  164. Me and my friends are all sorted! Our tickets have arrived, we’re booked in to The Elephant, and we’ve got our ferry crossing sorted. Now we just need to figure out where to visit on the Wednesday as we casually work our way across Europe. Fun :)

  165. Time is ticking on and I’m getting more excited by the day. Finally decided what vehicle were taking, and it looks like an underpowered VW camper van. Should make for plenty of entertainment. however i’ve just realised when I booked the campsite we were taking a car and camping, now its the van and camping. i think i’ll get intouch with Michael to make sure this is ok

    1. Sounds great peeps- looking forward to meeting you all.
      Also good news- in the village there the pubs are all closed on Wednesdays but due to pressure from me and Michael Mr. Bertrand will be open for those of us who arrive Wednesday.
      Will look back in next week- till then enjoy the race this weekend and think of me being very soggy in my tent- but I’ll be there! Off tomorrow morning!

    2. Hi Rick,
      there is no problem … ;-)
      cu
      Michael

  166. Hi Everyone,

    We are attending Spa this year (4 of us) and were wondering if anyone who has been before from UK can give us some advice on electric hook ups? We are camping at the Elephant site and would like to know what kind of converters we will need to power our stuff?

    If any one can give us some advice/ideas where to get the power converters from it would be much appreciated.

    Thanks in advance

    Steve

    1. ‘lo Steve,

      I’ve been looking into exactly that. I found a guy who sells a lot of stuff on ebay from his extensive range of products he produces himself.

      he has his own advice page on conversion..

      http://jegs11.goods.officelive.com/EuroEHU.aspx

      I had a good look through all his products and decided this would be best for my needs.

      a conversion set..

      http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Euro-Continental-Hook-up-Adapter-Set-tester-4-/350375731495?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_Cables_Hookups&hash=item5194056127

      and a 16A Caravan/Tent Hookup adapter..

      http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Caravan-generator-Tent-hookup-adapter-Cable-16A-2G-35cm-/350368761133?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_Cables_Hookups&hash=item51939b052d

      As for a lead, my plan is pick one up at the site I’m staying at (I know they lend them) because I’m flying and need to think about weight, also I cant be sure if the plug in the conversion set is weather-proofed.

  167. hi michael

    is this the right address to get my tickets forwarded to you?

    Michael G. Gaber / Michael Defourny
    198/A, Route de Sart
    B-4970 FRANCORCHAMPS / Belgium

  168. thank you.just wanted 2 make sure

  169. Hi

    Could anybody please advise me i would like to go to spa for the first time this year,how close is the nearest accomodation,

    Thankyou dave

    1. Dave
      if you are looking for hotel or B&B then forget it now- most have been fully booked since the beginning of the year unless you stay quite a way away now -either Liege or Aachen.Otherwise to be near the track camping is an alternative.
      Regards
      Carol

  170. YeeHaa! GA tickets arrived yesterday. Bought them from Spa-Tickets.be who said they would arrived 7-10 days before the Grand Prix, which didn’t leave much time if there was a problem, but they’re here so that’s one less thing to worry about! Ferry and camping already booked. Just got to check over our camping gear next week-end and buy whatever we need and we’re good to go!!!.

    Looking forward to 2 week-ends of GP’s and then we can think about our trip. Can’t wait!

  171. Hi,

    Never been to Spa but looking at coming from U.K can anyone tell me what routes they took (Trains/Plane/car)and any hotels nearby? Not sure of camping (will have kids with me) are the camps provided or do people bring their own?

    Also which is best stand to view all action?

    Thanks

    1. Hi CH,

      Hotel end of July? no way. Camping with kids is no problem, yes, you have to bring your own. So better by car.
      Info you fint at http://francorchamps-camping.com – the place is safety and quiet.

      cu
      Michael

  172. Michelle from Newcastle
    25th July 2010, 9:57

    We’re booked up for camping, and just have a tent – are we able to order electric hookup or:
    1) is that not possible because we are in tent and not caravan
    2) are we too late?

    If you could let me know and if it is possible I’ll send payment.
    Thanks
    Michelle

    1. Hi Michelle,

      no, also tents can have electric hook. But it’s to late – fully booked. But I am sure that we can help you.

      cu
      Michael

      1. Michelle from Newcastle
        25th July 2010, 23:58

        If you get any drop outs, put us on reserve if you don’t mind please!

        it’s mainly for charging up camera battery etc, and the odd kettle boil, quite a bit quicker than the ole stove!!

        1. I think at my caravan you find a hook for you ;-)

          1. Michelle from Newcastle
            26th July 2010, 20:32

            Thank you :D I think in our car we might find some beeers for you :D

          2. Michael don’t drink any alc … like Coke and Red Bull ;-)

  173. Does anyone know where we might be able to pick up some inexpensive fold up chairs for the race..nearby the circuit or on the way from Frankfurt to the circuit? We don’t want to bring our from home – the airlines will charge $50 as checked luggage while flying within the States. Thought it might be cheaper to buy some cheap ones and then donate them to the campsite or a needy camper when we leave???

    1. Hi Connie

      If it’s anything like the UK there’s a good chance you’ll pick them up at service stations on the motorways or at large super/hyper-markets etc, assuming you’re driving to Spa of course.

      You often see them at the race circuits but they’re usually more expensive there. Best to try to find them en-route from Franfurt.

      1. Thanks, Bloggs. We are driving to the circuit and staying at the Elephant B&B. We are looking forward to meeting everyone who posts on this blog and is staying at the Elephant.

    2. Hi Connie,

      I don’t understand your question. B&B you don’t need some chairs ;-)
      If you need chairs cuz you like to sit together with our folks at the campsite – no problem, we will have some for you ….

      But don’t forgett: you go not to Spa – it’s Francorchamps (for your GPS) ;-)))

      cu
      Michael

  174. michael ,can you confirm you got my email yesterday about paying my balabnce for camping?

    thanks
    kingsley

  175. Hi all ,I will be driving to the circuit daily as staying away from circuit ,can anyone advise that getting a parking pass is a must ? or will i be able to park with relative ease ?

    Thanks in advance .

    Scott

    1. Scott
      booking a spot is to be recommended. Whereabouts are you staying? Take a look because you can also book just parking with us if you want.Let me know if I can help here.
      Cheers
      Carol

      1. Hi Carol ,thanks for your reply ,we are staying at Aachen ,where exactly are you ? would be interested in parking .

        Thanks

        Scott

  176. Oh please Michael help me out.. just sent res form off to you after finding usual site full, please tell me your not full. 1 tent, 2 persons. Good guys.

    1. Rob
      no panic- we’ll find a spot for you!

    2. Hi Rob,

      who said it’s full? Electric hook is fully booked – there is enough space for tents, caravan and Mobilehomes ….
      So pls send the res.
      cu
      Michael

  177. Hi Guys

    3 bronze tickets booked through BookF1 (very good service and very very helpful when answering queries. Used them last year for my first live GP in Spain).
    Campsite booked at Elephant after thankfully finding this site before I booked the main campsite that sounds horrendous.

    Firstly just like to thank Carol and Michael for all of their advice on these pages. Michael has been brilliant with my booking and has responded so quickyl to all of my questions.

    General question to all- as the track is 6+ miles long, is it a possibility to bring bicycles over and ride into the circuit and then around the general admission area (paths) then lock up the bikes out of the way, or should we just use the shuttle from Elephant (paid for already) and walk??

    Any advice welcome

    Cant wait to see you all at the campsite when we arrive on the Friday!!!

    Si

    1. Simon
      glad to hear you are joining us- having just survived a horrendous Hockenheim campsite i can’t wait for the civilisation of Elephant (here we do not get bands of robbers going about slitting tents and stealing, nor 23 different kinds of music blasting you till 5 am……one hour peace then it all starts again……uff never again!)
      As for bikes- not sure I would recommend that. Parts of the paths are a bit erm tricky and it does get a bit crowded on Saturday and Sunday so would not be much fun. If I were you I would enjoy the walk around the track- if you have had enough you can always cut through the middle in places. The layout is breathtaking and I am sure you will be suitably amazed. Spa was my first ever live race 2005 and been hooked on the place ever since!
      Cheers
      Carol

      1. Thanks Carol

        i will take your advice and look forward to having a beer with you 4 weeks tomorrow

  178. Hi all
    back from a very soggy Hockenheim and our phone/internet has been offline (stupid Vodafone can’t seem to get us fixed) so as on company mobile at the moment will keep this short!
    Michelle- if you ever meed to boil a kettle or charge a battery- no probs- just look us up and am sure we can help out.
    Connie- no need to buy a fold up chair for the race- we can lend you a couple if you want no hassle.
    Kingsley- I am pleased to tell you your tent held up to the torrents and storms of Hockenheim so you should be fine!
    Cheers and not long now!
    Carol

    1. Yay thats great news! only a few weeks until I leave for Belgium, so so excited.. just waiting for michael to confirm bank details to pay off my res, and then all done.

      Just a bit worried he hasnt got back to me and I’ve lost my spot.. :<

      1. tztztz .. look your mail box

        1. i have not got anything from you michael?

          1. oh it was in spam.. let me try agian.

  179. Michael
    our pal Micha John and his girlfriend also want to join us – small Womo or car/tent so please reserve them a space- I can only send themm the link to you when I get back online (seufz Vodafone……)
    Gruesse
    C

  180. Claire & Rob Neal
    29th July 2010, 9:33

    When is everyone arriving at the elephant? We were going to arrive on fri morn after a night in Bastogne but changed our minds and are now arriving the thurs morn instead :D . Im on countdown already, only 28 days till we set off ;) im sad i know lol
    Claire
    xxxx

    1. Good decision arriving Thursday, as there is a pit lane walkabout I believe in the afternoon!

      I fly into Brussels Wed Morning, so hopefully will be there wed afternoon. considering changing my return date to sunday night or keep with monday! hmm :D

      1. Hi all
        we and quite a few others will arrive Wednesday afternoon/evening.
        Kingsley- up to you- we leave Monday as 800km after the race excitement is not something we think sensible!
        c
        Pitwalk is usually around 3-4pm Thursday depending on the track’s punctuality!

        1. Hi Carol,
          Is the pitwalk open to everybody, or only for certain ticket holders?

          We’ll be arriving at The Elephant early afternoon, I hope, so should be able to do the pitwalk if our tickets allow.

          1. Hi Dave
            pitwalk is open to all who have a weekend ticket no matter what class. It is usually around 3:30 pm in the afternoon (but it usually takes them about half an hour to get organised and the gates opened).
            It is also during this time that the drivers do their aitpgraph sessions so listen out to the loudspeakers if you don’t want to miss your fave driver (they each have 15 minute slot so you can end up charging up and down the pitlane like a maniac)…….

  181. Hello F1Fanatics, I want to bring my dad to this year GP, I’m leaving not far from the belgium border (in France) so I will make it only sunday.

    I’m thinking about taking G4 tickets, it’s already very expensive but come on, I will not go there every day!

    I was wondering if this G4 is really a good place considering the price of tickets. All I want is to feel the speed of the cars and possibly take some good pictures of it.

    Would you recommend it or do you think it’s better to take a bronze pass and walk around?

    Thanks a lot for your help

    1. Pigmer
      if you really only want to spend one day and see the real speed of the cars then go bronze and walk about.
      You will be amazed on the long straight and then the chicane to les combes-
      Cheers
      C

    2. Hi Pigmer

      We had G4 tickets last year and they were great – great view of the cars coming down from La Source and through Eau Rouge and up the hill – they are practically at your eyelevel as they drive past, and watching the F1 drivers going flat out through there is great – and you can’t get good views of Eau Rouge from the bronze areas. Only downside is if you’re in the front few rows on the left hand side as you enter the grandstand as there is debris netting in front of the seats (a bit annoying but we appreciated it when a GP2 crashed about 10 m from our seats!). The rest of the stand has truly incredible views – if you were ringing up to buy tickets I would ask where they are in the stand.

      Bronze has good places to watch – but will be very busy in the best places on sunday – with people getting there as soon as the gates open to bag their spot. Its a shame you can only make it for a single day – We normally walk the track on friday/saturday then enjoy the race from the grandstand on sunday……

      1. Thanks for your answers Carol & Catherine!

        As we come only for 1 day and that obviously bronze area will be full of people at good spots, I took a G3 Grandstand.

        I’ve read many good comments about it so I hope it will be memorable moment!

  182. The following message to was undeliverable.
    The reason for the problem:
    5.1.0 – Unknown address error 554-‘5.7.1 Service unavailable; Client host [195.238.6.174] blocked using ix.dnsbl.manitu.net; Spam sent to the mailhost mail.ixlab.de was detected by NiX Spam at Fri, 30 Jul 2010 15:55:46 +0200, see http://www.dnsbl.manitu.net/lookup.php?value=195.238.6.174

    Carol, kommt bei Dir nix an?

  183. Michael,

    I’ve e-mailled you a couple of times asking if I’ve got electric hook-up, but you haven’t replied. Just want to know so I can get a cable if I have.

    Dave Hall

  184. Carol-
    Thanks for the reply about chairs. I don’t know if you remember that we are the ones staying at the Elephant B&B. Don’t know how far it is from the campground or how accessible the campground will be to us.
    Question: Does the circuit allow chairs/small coolers to be brought in? Most circuits in the USA allow chairs and a cooler (about the size of a 6 pack of beer cans) filled with food and drinks.
    We are so excited to be attending this race and meeting all of you.
    Thanks

    1. Hi Connie
      no problem- we can get the chairs to you- sure one of Michael’s team will help us out on that one!
      Yes you can take chairs coolboxes whatever you want to the track. Just no bottles are allowed but cans or plastic or socalled tetra packs are fine.
      Your B&B can’t be far away- will check with Michael as it would be nice to meet up in the evenings!
      Can’t wait!
      Regards
      C

      1. you B&B is around 15 km from the campside. Don’t worry – we will guide …

        1. Hi Michael, I have a reservation at The Elephant for this year’s Spa F1 – on my booking sheet I had noted that we would be using a tent but can you please change that to a camper – electricity etc still required. Reservation is already paid. I have previously emailed to advise you but I didnt get a response, so thought I would msg you this way, can you pls reply so I know all is okay, thanks Janine Capenhurst & Shane Scobie, 8 Hellfire Drive, Darch, Western Australia 6065, janinec@woodmazda.com.au Tel +61404024044

          1. Might be a silly suggestion Janine however might be worth checking your junk mail box as this is where I found Michael’s email reply to me when I booked.

        2. In addition Michael, we are leaving Australia for Europe Thursday 19 Aug – are any documents we require for campsite likely to reach us before then – otherwise is it better if you hold for us and we collect from you on arrival?
          Thanks, Janine Capenhurst & Shane Scobie

  185. Is anyone travelling from Brussels over the 3 days and how is everyone planning to get to the track?

  186. I’m not sure yet probably get the train I think?

  187. Carol ,

    I would be intersted in just parking with you ,where are you exactly & how do i book ? We are staying at Aachen .

    Scott

    1. Hi Scott,

      see the map here >> http://francorchamps-camping.com/map.htm
      The Elephant 112
      Better you make a reservation for Parking

      From Aachen don’t use the Highway – it’s faster

      cu
      Michael

      1. Michael, I’m considering a trip to Spa for the F1 and was wondering do you have space for a tent Thursday to Monday?
        Many Thanks
        Steven

        1. Hi Steven,
          yes, I have. Pls go to the web side and make your reservation.
          cu
          Michael

          ;-) SPA is around 15 km from the race. But you find us near the circuit at Francorchamps … lol

          1. Thanks Michael and by the way……..I’ll do the jokes…..lol
            Sorry, should have said Francorchamps. I’ve been at the race on 2 previous occassions and know first hand how far they are apart. Glad I found this blog as I’ve camped elsewhere on my previous trips and the showers were poor and toilets really bad! Glad to hear that Elephant isn’t like that :-)

          2. Michael, just to confirm that I’ve been to the web site, completed the form and sent it back. A copy was sent to me email but no directions if I’ve to pay now or when I arrive. Can you advise?
            Sorry to be a pest!
            Many thanks.

      2. Hi Michael ,

        Thanks ,i have sent off form for parking :)

        Do you think i will be able to get away from site with ease after GP as we need to catch a flight from Luxembourg @ 7.30pm ?

      3. Michael – I beleive you operate a tent site? We are actually staying in a hotel in Liege and looking for parking… do you do parking to? Do they at the circuit to? What do you recommend? Cost etc? Thanks in advance for the advice.

  188. hi guys
    im going to Spa with my friend this year and wondered if you could help me, we have GA weekend tickets and wondered whether we are able to sit in grandstands for practice? plus have any of you received your tickets yet? thanks

    1. i dont think so, i think its only for ticket holders who have grandstand seats.. i might be wrong..

      1. that’s right, you wont get into a grandstand with a GA ticket at any point in the weekend.

        I’ve tried.

    2. Alannah ,

      We received our tickets about 3 weeks ago .

    3. Alanah
      up till 2005 you could sit in any grandstand Friday as it was only then that they closed the place off- since then its a nono and you can’t do that any more. Take Friday to walk around the track and see pratices/support series practices from different vantage points and then decide where you want to be on race day.Hope to see you on the walkabout- we are the two crazies in red…….

  189. Claire & Rob Neal
    3rd August 2010, 20:47

    Does anyone know if we are allowed to take a coolbox into the circuit with beer in and also disposable bbq’s for those brekky sausages? :) 3 wks tomorrow till we set off yipee, im so excited. Can you believe that the next time we watch free practice we will be there :D xxx

    1. Yes you can take chairs coolboxes whatever you want to the track. Just no bottles are allowed but cans or plastic or socalled tetra packs are fine.
      bbq – oh no …

      again some days ….

      cu
      Michael

  190. Hi,

    After spending the last 10 years plus at Silverstone have finally decided to try another race, so have also brought tickets for Spa this year. Have got tickets in Gold 7 La Source for my son and I and we are camping at the circuit in the Green Zone.

    Can anybody tell me what the grandstand is like and is the camp site ok?

    We are driving over so would also like to hear from anyone who can tell me how long the drive is likely to take from Calais?

    Any info would be great.

    Cheers,

    Mick

    1. Stuart Bailey
      4th August 2010, 13:18

      We’re coming over from the UK by car, its a really easy drive Mick, took us about 4 hours from Calais (driving at night)

      Enjoy.

      SB

      1. Cheers,

        I am on the 08:30am ferry from Dover, so might be a bit more traffic but hopefully not too bad.

    2. Mi Mick,

      have a look on the map where Gold 7 is and than a look where is the Green Zone (Les Combes)!
      You have to walk a lot. Also the camside there has no showers, toiletts yes, but very very dirty (nobody clean ist). I’m not shure that you can sleep at night near 200 sound blasters … I think, it’s not a good choice.

      1. Michael,

        Thanks for your thoughts, and now i’m worried. If things are that bad I would not wish to stay there.

        I know you run the Elephant, if I came on Thursday would you have space for us. I have a big tent and need around 60m2.

        Want a nice clean, quiet weekend where we can have a drink, food, good company and be able to shower.

        If you could fit us in how much would it be?

        1. Mick
          I may be biased as a committed Elephant fan- depends what you want. There is not much difference in price between the green zone (and yes it is a madhouse but if you want round the clock boom boom type music, crap facilities and no sleep then its the place for you!) If however you are in Gold and are looking for civilised crazy fun (but get your beauty sleep if you want to) then come stay with us- and we are nearer to your grandstand than the green area that’s for sure.
          Elephant is a temporary site but has shower/toilet containers which are constantly cleaned and have loo rolls at all times. Also if you want a site that is manned 24 hours with no risk of theft or nastiness then you would be fine with us nutters.
          Prices here:
          http://spa-francorchamps-camping.com/preise.htm
          Apologies- I did put Michael’s site into proper emglish but he has not got around to updating it yet….grrrrrr

          1. Thanks Carol

            I have asked Michael if he could fit us in we are coming Thursday morning and will leave Mon morning but as yet he hasn’t replied.

            Hopefully there’s room. I may give him a call tomorrow.

            Mick

  191. Hi All,

    I’m trying to decide between Gold 4 (Eau Rouge) & Gold 7 (La Source) grandstands … G4 appears quite spectacular, but G7 seems to offer a little pit action, a longer viewing time of the cars overall, and of course turn 1 incidents.

    Would love to hear if people have opinions, especially if anyone’s had both and can compare.

    thx,
    buz.

    1. Just bought Gold 4 tix and yellow car parking.

      Does anyone know how parking works for Thursday? Just turn up and they’ll let me in with my weekend tix?

      1. Hi Buz
        parking should be no problem. Thursday you can only get in at the La Source entrance and only for the pitwalk in the afternoon. That is something else they have changed since 2005 when you could walk about all over the place…….shame but in view of the security issues they have had recently it is not surprising- like football a small stupid minority spoil it for the rest of us.
        Cheers
        C

        1. That is a pity about the restricted access, but not surprising I guess.

          thx Carol. Feeling reassured now.

  192. Just thought id post this info as it might be helpful to a select few.

    Travel Itinerary

    Thursday 26/08/10
    Aer Lingus EI 630
    Dep Dublin Thu 26 Aug10 6.50am
    Arr Brussels Thu 26 Aug10 9.35am

    TRAIN: (Just under 40 euro for a return ticket)
    Includes 1 change over which is Louvain
    From: bruxelles-nat-aeroport departing at 10.39 am, 11.39, 12.39, and 13.39
    To: Verviers-central arriving at 12.25 am, 13.25, 14.25, and 15.25

    BUS: (4.20 euro single for 6+ zones)
    From: Verviers-central departing at 10.40, 12.40 am, 14.40 and 16.40
    To: Francorchamps route de Fagnou arriving at 11.19, 13.19 am, 15.19 and 17.19

    Monday 30/08/10
    BUS:
    From: Francorchamps route de Fagnou departing at 7.22, 9.37 am, 11.37, 13.37, and 15.37
    To Verviers-central arriving at 8.04, 10.18 am, 12.18, 14.18, and 16.19

    TRAIN:
    Includes 1 change over which is Louvain
    From: Verviers-central departing at 10:34 am, 11.34, 12.34 and 13.34
    To: bruxelles-nat-aeroport arriving at 12.21 am, 13.21, 14.21, and 15.21

    Aer Lingus EI 639
    Dep Brussels Mon 30 Aug 10 9.10pm
    Arr Dublin Mon 30 Aug 10 9.45pm

    1. Hey we may bump into one another! We (2 of us) are coming via the Eurostar & 1 local train and our itinerary gets us to Verviers at 16.25 on the Thursday.

      Where did you get the bus information from? We need to do a similar thing. We are also going back on the Monday!

      I won’t even say what the Eurostar tickets cost… nearly as much as the GA+Camping tickets! Should have driven!

        1. Many thanks for the buses.

          Alas not at the Elephant. First time to Spa so did not know about alternative camping sites. Camping at the circuit.

    2. can you buy your train tickets in advance?

        1. And will a standard ticket do? Do I need to pick a specific train or can i get a ticket for the day?

          1. Standard ticket will do or the go pass if your between 12 and 25. its not a specific train with regard to the time your paying for its the destination. So its the latter.

    3. think il be on that plane home .

    4. il be on that flight home cheers for the info very helpfull dude

  193. oh, I just bought a standard ticket for each day, a single at 16 euros each. not too bad I suppose. :D

  194. can you buy the bus ticket too or do you have to do that as you get on the bus?

    1. I think you get the bus ticket on the bus or maybe at Verviers-central train station ill try and find out for sure. I did hear the bus stop is just out side the train station, which is handy.

      any body listen to anotherF1podcast????? its awesome

      Go Ferrari….

  195. Calling all Spa travellers!!!

    Beleive it or not, off to my first Spa GP this month and just planning the trip. Done a number before but traditionally do a package rather than build your own. Now booked a hotel in Liege and tickets separately and just wondering the best way to transfer to the track. Have read a few comments on here saying don’t drive but really fancing booking a parking slot and driving in….

    Any thoughts / comments / tips folks?

  196. So is anyone flying over from heathrow on Wednesday Morning on the BA388? Hoping to do this trek with someone as not too sure on my own! :P

    1. Kingsley
      stop fretting you will be fine! You may even get there before us on Weds but no panic!Its about a 10 hour drive for us so we hope to be there around 4pm to get pitched and sorted.

  197. Here’s a real long shot.. does anyone know of anywhere to hire bikes in or around Malmedy? Last year I found one wee place in Stavelot, which was never open.

  198. Help,

    I’m booked in at the Green Zone camp site for the weekend. Michael paints a less than attractive picture of the place. I can’t really afford to waste money so before I find somewhere else to stay can anybody out there give me some information on what it’s like.

    Any comments would be really appreciated.

    Mick.

    1. http://www.spagrandprix.com/en/faqs/cat12-order.aspx

      Can I cancel my purchase ? If so, how ?
      Hide answer »

      Yes, you have 7 cadendar days (from the date of your order) to cancel the purchase of your your tickets. We must receive notification of cancellation by e-mail at the following address: “Cancellation@spagrandprix.com”. You will receive confirmation of your cancellation by return e-mail. Administrative and banking fees are not reimbursed.

    2. Mick
      the green zone is a huge field directly at the Les Combes entrance. The facilities are pretty primitive, as its so gib it gets very loud and crowded- depends what you want. I also answered your previous post. I have been to Spa every year since 2005 and I would not stay in green but everyone is different in their preferences.

  199. Hi everyone,

    Me and my best mate are stopping at the elephant, arriving thursday morning.

    Has anybody recieved their yellow parking pass which allows you into the village of ster and comes as part of the camping package?

    How far are the tents from the electrical hook up point?

    We will be taking a spare plug, socket and cable so will be able to make up an adapter for anyone that doesn’t have one that is applicable.

    Thanks Mike

    1. We are booked on the 4am ferry from dover to calais also just wondering if anybody else is.

      1. I’ve booked the Elephant and am waiting to hear back from Michael. We are driving down from Edinburgh on Wednesday around 6pm to catch the Eurochunnel train at around 3am ish so will probably arrive before you. Looking forward to a sleep when we arrive!

    2. Hi Mike,
      I will send it out next week

      Electric hook – you need a cable, max 50 m

      Here you see the connection: http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schuko

      cu
      Michael

  200. So, a rough idea of what I am doing:

    My flightS:

    1.1NEWMAN/KINGSLEYMR
    1. BA 388 O 25AUG LHRBRU HK1 0655 0905
    2. BA 399 O 30AUG BRULHR HK1 1920 1930

    Aim to get the 10:39am bus and arrive at elephant mid afternoon. changin trains at louvain.

    :]

    1. Hi Kingsley,

      are you a little nervouse? ;-)

      Again 2 and a half week!

      1. yes i am nervous!!!!!!! first time like abroad on my own, and to somwhere i have never been before!! :D

  201. It’s great to see so many people going to this year’s race.

    If you’d like to contribute to an article on fans’ experiences at this year’s race please get in touch with me via the contact form:

    Contact F1 Fanatic

    Have a great time everyone!

    1. Keith
      we always have a great time- we got a great bunch together last year and this year is no different.
      Can’t wait to meet all the new peeps and all the great pals we made there last year!
      C

      1. Hey Carol, four of us travelling over from Edinburgh and staying at The Elephant so hope we’ll get the chance to meet up over a beer or three! Wonder if you can help with the following………..can we buy Bronze tickets at the entrance on Thursday or should we buy them on the web?……..where would you suggest we sit ourselves on race day for some laughs and race action?…….are there any restaurants close to The Elephant?…….sorry for all the questions! Cheers, Steven

        1. Hi Steven
          tickets you can buy at the gate on your way in- no problems there. They accept cash and most credit cards. No point buying on the web now as you may not get them before you leave and also you will pay for admin charges and shipping- so forget that and buy at the gate.
          If you are also going bronze then joing a load of us at the top of the Kemmel straight- we are nuts- have a great time and walk casually down for a beer on the Eau rouge after the race!
          We can chat about all that when you get there!

          1. Thanks Carol and sounds like fun! We are 4 Scotsmen always up for a laugh however we’ll be leaving our kilts at home this year as Di Resta (good Scottish name…..) has yet to make his appearance! Quick question re race day, is the land flat enough where you guys sit for us to use green collapsable camping chairs? We like to relax and take in the surroundings……….

  202. Anyone worried about their traffic passes- no pnaic- Michael usually sends them out about 1-2 weeks before the race so you’ll be OK. It is also not a problem for anyone arriving before Friday as its Friday when the police close all the roads off. We have never had problems on Weds or Thurs in getting through.

  203. This will be my first F1 weekend and am really looking forward to it. Any tips for 1st timers?

    1. Take yer ear plugs!!!!

      1. Ear defenders; check :)

        I’ve been reading about being able to walk the track at some point on the Friday (well, at least I *think* I did). I’m a long-distance runner; is it at all possible to run the track at some point over the race weekend?

        1. Steve
          you can run around the outside of the track as much as you want to- once the race is over they open up the gates and you can run the track itself then (avoiding the crowds of course)- just look out for us- we are the crazies having a leisurely beer on the Eau Rouge after the race……..great view from there! Lol

          1. A beer at Eau Rouge after the race?

            Sounds like a damn good idea to me! We just might join you. :)

          2. and we will definitely join you… altho champagne for me if Webber wins or for shane if Lewis does…:)

          3. Great Bloggs and Janine
            I want Fonz to win but if not Webbo will do just fine!
            If you want to look at the “after race Eau Rouge beer pics” then take a look here- was crazy!
            http://s679.photobucket.com/albums/vv158/LoopyLoo2009/Spa2009/
            The mad lot with all the blue flags were Alonso Fan Club from Tenerife……we got all their stools as a souvenir…crazy folks- the idiot in red is my other half- nuff said! Lol

          4. Great photos. That really is some hill at Eau Rouge..! I see Nico Rosberg at the Elephant in some of the pics. Do drivers often visit the Elephant or was that a special promo by his team?

            Anyone else got photos of the Elephant camp site & surrounding area?

        2. Steve I was also going to run round (did Silverstone half a while ago) but couldn’t leave the wife on her own so will walk round with her after the race.

          Will also be running around the local area near the campsite instead on the non-race days.

  204. A quick question about security for Michael or Carol…

    From what I’ve been reading the Elephant is a good secure site manned 24-hours, which is great news, but are there any secure lock-up facilities?

    I’m thinking of maybe wanting to secure fairly small items such as cameras. As we’re on motorbikes we don’t have the option to lock stuff in the boot of a car.

    1. That sounds like a good idea. I’m buying a small rucksack today to take any valuables with me to the circuit.

      1. Hi
        there are no secure lock up but either Michael can help out or if you are concerned with stuff then lock it in our camper- no problem there.
        I have however never heard of any thieving or stuff like that on the site as Michael and his boys are on site all the time.
        Also Ster really is a sleepy little village and the roads are closed off from Friday morning so strangers can’t just “get in” and directly over the road from the site is the village hall where all the police, fire brigade and other security personnel have their HQ and get fed so the place is yes pretty secure.
        Michael also patrols personally regularly (you can’t miss him in his huge jeep with flashing light………)His boys also sleep on site.
        Otherwise let me know- if you ask for Carol everyone knows me as I been part of the furniture for years now!
        Kingsley- as you are residing in our tent you can definitely lock your stuff in our van- no problem!

        As for the rest of you- a beer on the Eau Rouge after the race is tradition so join us please- its great to unwind and chat and discuss the race there- beautiful view and the slope is pretty damned awesome!

        1. So it is. This year I engage a prof. security in the night time. (also Michael need a little sleep) and sometimes police patrols.
          But I will say it again: DON’T let impotant things in your tent. (money, camera, mobile phones) – also nit by night!!! Put it in your car.

          1. Thanks Carol & Michael. That’s all I needed to know.

  205. Richard Harwood
    6th August 2010, 11:34

    Hi Michael

    I think (!) I have just booked my wife and I into The Elephant via the following website.

    http://francorchamps-parking.com/

    I’m very excited!

    Should I receive confirmation of this booking? Will I receive anything from you?

    Sorry for the questions!

    Many Thanks in advance

    Richard & Bev Harwood

    1. Hi Richard
      we look forward to welcoming you there. The usual course of events is that you will receive a confirmation and invoice from Michael with instructions what to pay where.
      One-two weeks before the race you will get your security pass to get through the closed roads depending when you plan to arrive!
      Cheers
      C

    2. Hi Richard,

      I have done! didn’t reiceived?

      cu
      Michael

      1. Thanks M & C!!

        Invoice received – I’ll be paying tonight :)

        Thanks again!

        Richard

        PS Add me and my wife (Bev) to the Eau-Rouge beer club!!

        1. I should add, we’re on the 6.40am ferry on Thursday from Dover, so hopefully we’ll be at The Elephant and with the tent up in plenty of time for the pit walk :)

  206. Carol ,

    what will traffic be like away from Elephant after the race ,will it be fairly easy to get to motorway ?

    Thanks

    Scott

    1. Scott
      from wherever you are it will take a while to get the traffic sorted directly after the race- luckily from wherever you are it is not far to the motorway so the waits are usually not that bad.
      As we have a 500 mile drive we always leave Monday so can’t say I have ever tried it first hand on Sunday after the race.
      Regards
      Carol

  207. thats me ready to rock,GA tickets are here..geting the first plane out of ireland to amsterdam thursday morring.then a train to verviers,havin booked th train tickets looks to be plenty of trains going.its over a 4 hour spin to Verviers, if i leave amsterdam round 12am we should be at the campsite around 5 pm??? in time for the pit walk ?? hope so anyway

    thank you for all the help everybody

    1. Do you know your way around the dam or do you want a few recommendations?

      1. dam is my second home dude,,are you on the same flight as us

        1. that’s probably for the best cause now that I think about it we never stray outside a small area covering the station n our hotel, the Prix Dami pool hall (u know it?) and Mr Noodle. :)

          I fly out Tuesday as we like to head down to the track on the Wednesday.

          Enjoy.

          1. beside golden tulip?.maybe we should av went on a wednesday to.dont think we will make the pitwalk.by the time we get a few coffees in to us and a few bits and bobs for camping it will be noon sayin that have to find a camping store aswell ha.

  208. Hello all,
    I decided that since my birthday is August 29th, I’d go see my first ever Formula 1 race in the flesh. I’m coming over from the States and am staying in Brussels. What is the best way to get from Brussels to the track by train/bus? How long does it usually take? I have Bronze tickets for Sunday because I’m spending the other days in all different parts of Belgium. Also what are the usual costs for the buses? I’m guessing I should prepare for some pretty heavy crowds?

    I couldn’t be more excited for this race, if anybody has any tips or advice on where to stand or eat or any miscellaneous piece of advice I’d greatly appreciate it.
    I apologize for being overly inquisitive as I am still new to Formula 1 and its excitement. Please help!

    1. Well, you must be very brave to try to get to the circuit by train and bus, because it won’t be easy.

      First, you’ll have to know that the first train you can have will get you to Francorchamps by 10 A.M (so if you are a fan of Formula BMW, you will miss the race).

      The earliest TRAIN : you’ll have to go from the train station Brussels North (Brussel Noord), the train going to Eupen, leaving at 08:06 A.M. The train will stop at a big number of station, but yours will be VERVIERS-CENTRAL. You should get there by 09:25 A.M.

      There, you’ll have to look for the bus number 395, direction Malmedy Gare. The bus leaves at 09:40, and arrives at the circuit at 10:12.

      A one-way ticket to Verviers cost 16.70 euros, but I recommend to take “Billet week-end” : a return ticket that will cost you 17.4 euros. The price of the bus will cost you from 1.4 to 4.2 euros.

      If you have any question, you can send me an email : gvardeitsev@hotmail.com

    2. DK
      if you are travelling in on race day only and bronze ticket you will not get a decent view! The only thing i can offer is we take a deck chair for you (sitting on the soggy grass is not recommended) and you then find us- top of long straight.
      Drop me an email so if you want to join up and share your birthday (we also want you to have a great time!) so i can give you my phone number so you can find us easily!
      carol.treurnicht@arcor.de
      Regards
      C

    3. DK

      I’ve gotta agree with Carol, with GA you’ll really struggle to get a decent spot arriving at that time.. GA ticket holders have to be at the track early as possible, even before the gates open at 8am to bag a decent spot. I’m heading for Les Combes this year and could try to keep a wee space for you, if possible, but couldnt promise anything. Let me know if you want my contact details.

      1. Hi Rob

        We’re going on bronze GA tickets this year – plan is to get a spot as close to Les Combes as possible hoping for some overtaking there. What time should we get there – coming in from Monschau in Germany, but happy to get up super early if necessary. I was planning to arrive @7.30 – parking pre-booked in Green Zone. Good plan?

        1. I’ve previously been over Liege corner on GA tickets, arriving about 8.30am and been able to get a good spot. With Les Combes being a more popular spot I reckon a 7 – 7.30 arrival for the gates opening at 8 should be fine.

          1. thanks rob and carol for the invite, I appreciate that. Is it really that bad if I get there late? I don’t mind not having the perfect spot, but I at least like a spot. Where is it least crowded?

  209. Hi all

    Looking forward to my 1st Spa experience in a couple of weeks!

    We’re camping down in Bastogne from the 23rd to the 30th, has anyone had any experience driving in on raceday from the South? (seems like most people on here stay either in the immediate vicinity or Liege!)

    Played it safe and bought official parking (red zone) when I bought my bronze general admission ticket, only 16 euros, so not too more than people have paid previously to park in people’s fields etc.

    Does anyone know if it’s correct that you can get into grandstands with bronze tickets on the Friday?

    1. Hi Lee
      not sure about travel from the south as we come in from Germany- ie northeast so can’t help you much there I’m afraid.
      Sadly you cannot get into the grandstands any more with a bronze ticket- they changed this after 2005 (then you could).
      Regards
      Carol

      1. Hi Carol

        We’ll be coming in from Monschau in Germany – what’s the traffic like on Sunday morning? Was planning to get to circuit @ 7.30 as have only bronze GA tickets.

        Cheers.

        1. Hi Gabriel
          coming that early you should not have a problem. Good luck and hope to see you there.

  210. Hi I am going to my 1st non British GP this year at Spa and am staying in Brussels for the 3 days. I was wondering if anyone else is planning to travel from Brussels each day and how they are getting there? I know there are trains but are there any coaches that go from Brussels straight to the track?

    1. Hi David
      take a look a Danil’s post a couple of posts up- great details about trains/buses for you.
      Thanks for that Danil.
      Regards
      Carol

  211. We’ll be on the 8:15 Sea France ferry on Thursday. Anybody else on that ferry?

    I’m expecting a 3 1/2 – 4 drive from Calais so should be at The Elephant with enough time to get the tent up and then go for teh Pitlane walk. If not, the tent will have to wait!

    Looking forward to seeing all you Elephant campers. Can’t wait!

    1. Great stuff Dave.
      Pitwalk is usually 3:30pm and you’ll need about 20 minutes to get to the entrance/pits.
      So if you get there late dump your tent and i’m sure you’ll get help on that when you get back!
      Cheers
      C

  212. Is there any rules on bbq’s on the elephant site …. Apart from the obvious?

    And we should have a campsite bbq

    1. Hi Mike,

      yes, I know ;-)

      Of corse bbq is accept. Everybody do it.
      Only open fire is unauthorized by fire brigade.

      cu
      Michael

    2. We all barbecue and often just pool our resources and get together.
      As Michael says anything goes as long as no open fires as we are in a beautiful rural setting and don’t want to burn the woods/track down! (Although the Dutch tried that on the path at the track a couple of years back- yeah it was pretty cold!)

  213. My tickets have been dispatched and will be with me tomorrow morning!!!! ahhhhhhhh!!!!!

    Only like 16 days until I leave.. so cant wait!!!

  214. Michael (or anyone else in the know),

    Do you know of anywhere in or around Malmedy to rent bicycles?

    I have a 6km walk / jog to the track, which doesnt bother me in terms of length and I expect to hitch a few lifts from my site, but on raceday I’m heading for the track very early, may not find a lift and thought bikes would be perfect.

    1. Hi Rob,

      I think my neighbour (near by ma house) do this. It’s a bike shop. I will ask him tomorrow.

      cu
      Michael

      1. It’s alright Michael, after an afternoon of research I managed to find a couple of places in Malmedy that rent bikes, including one just a mile from my campsite called Claessen Sports Spinette, who have told me its not a problem, I can rent from them. Thanks for your offer of help though.

  215. Hi Everyone,

    With each day that passes I’m getting more and more excited about this – looks like there’ll be a really big group of us all at the Elephant.

    Myself and 3 friends are booked on the 6.20am Euro-Tunnel departure so should hopefully arrive in the early afternoon.

    Do any Belgian GP veterans have any advice on money? I’d prefer to avoid having to take out all my spending money for the weekend in one go before we get there. What are cash withdrawal facilities like? Both near the Elephant and at the track? Or do most places take card payments anyway?

    Cheers,
    Nic

    1. Hi supernicebob … :-)

      yes, in Francorchamps is a bank with a machine ….

      Card payments .. not realy

      1. Thanks Michael!

  216. Two things,

    Firstly do I understand right, that if you have grandstand tickets you have access to the pit lane at 3:30pm on Thursday. If this is right Is this the only day or is it open Fri, Sat? And jow do you get to the pit lane?

    Secondly is anyone out there on the 08:30am P & O from Dover Thursday morning? as would be nice to meet up for coffee.

    1. Mick
      you just need a weekend ticket of any sort to have access to the pitwalk on Thrusday afternoon. It is also the time when the drivers do their autograph sessions so listen to the loudspeakers when they suddenly announce that Hamilton or Webber or someone is on his way out……it gets pretty hectic but good fun! Also watching the guys do their practice pitstops is quite a gas.
      To get to the pitlane- just follow the people……

  217. Michelle from Newcastle
    9th August 2010, 21:48

    http://www.spa-francorchamps.be/en07/home/pdf/acces-spectateur-e.pdf

    Found this is an earlier post from Kingsley (I think) – very useful information here.

  218. got camping sorted (thanks michael) got tickets (well they’re on their way) got the euro tunnel sorted, (10’30pm friday night) now cant wait, first time to a euro f1, done silverstone 5 in a row though, and a big thankyou to carol for reassuring my misses (emma)
    ps
    any lewis fans ???

  219. Hi All,

    yes, on the campside is still space.

    cu
    Michael

  220. Hi :)

    This will be my first F1 race, and we are planning road trip from croatia through italy, switzerland, france to belgium…we were planning to arrive in francorchamps on friday and find place to stay…we dont belive in reservations and preplanning ;)…now i see the roads will be closed, and without pass u cant enter (enter where?)…what that exactly mean?…how big is closed area…can we buy passes there or what to do now?
    we plan to leave on 21st (next sat)..is it to late to book in elephant and get our passes in time?

    tnx :)

    1. Mario
      if you want to come and stay with us then you still have time- no problem and you will have a great time. We are people from all different countries so you will meet all sorts of people.
      so if you want a nice friendly time then come and join us- we’d love to meet you.
      If I can help with anything else then let me know- you are not visisting Germany at all on your travels?

      1. we will stay at elephant, I just booked a place, so well se u…in the end i guess we have to plan something ;)
        I found a lot of answers here, and for now i dont have nay new ones, but if ill have i know where to ask.
        Ofcrs well visit germany (berlin), thats on the way home, and also amsterdam and wien. We will be 2 weeks on the road through europe

  221. This might be a dumb question as I’ve never been to an F1 race, but is there any opportunity to actually walk ON the track at a weekend? Would be cool to walk up Eau Rouge! :-)

    Jonathan

    1. If same no my previous visits Jonathan, they open the trackside gates after the race on Sunday so you can walk the track. First time I’ve used this blog and reading through it this certainly still seems to be the case as quite a few, led by a lady called Carol, will be gathering at Eu Rouge to enjoy a beer or three! All I can suggest is bring your hiking boots as it is steeper than any telly camera view will ever have you believe! Watching from the bottom as the cars go up it at 180-190mph is quite a spectacle. The guys that drive these motor cars are fearless as I’m sure you’ll agree once you see it for real. Enjoy losing your F1 viriginity, you certainly picked the best place to do it!

      1. Yep- the gates open after the race so you can walk all around the track! Eau rouge is awsome in the flesh so you should at least walk that part!
        And yes Steven- we do always enjoy our after race discussion beer on the Eau rouge after the race (we walk down a bit from the Kemmel straight)…….its a nice experience!

        1. Where should I be at what time to get this experience?…and I haven’t forgotten about your offer Carol!

          1. Hi DK, Just be at the track when the race ends. You’ll see people streaming onto the circuit. Grab a beer and maybe a chair and come to the kerbs at Eau Rouge for a beer and a photo!

          2. Hi DK
            offer still stands! When the race is over just meander down- you can’t miss all us crazies sitting about on top of Eau Rouge watching the more crazy trying to desperately get home…..Lol

        2. Jonathan Weighell
          11th August 2010, 22:42

          Rather than walk, any idea if it would be OK to cycle around the track?! Would be a good experience!

          Jonathan

        3. Can’t wait Carol, really looking forward to it and to meeting all you crazies! Any requests for anything Scottish we should bring over? Haggis for breakfast???

          1. Haggis sounds like a great idea! I’ll be bringing some Yorkshire beer.

          2. dude bring you bagpipes;)

          3. Yeah Haggis would be great- love the stuff!
            Not too sure about bagpipes though……

  222. Final piece of the weekend jigsaw sorted…… we’ll be looking out 4 Supernice Bob, also booked on 6.20 Tunnel, eta Elephant @ lunchtime. (Grey Vito & silver cc Passat)
    Michael, we have no passes yet, but will be there by Thursday lunchtime.
    cant wait to see you all there !!!!!!!

    1. Great stuff Darren (hope you don’t forget my shopping list…Lol). Look forward to catching up when you guys arrive….Will you make it before 13:30 as that is when I will probably have to leave……..

      1. Hi Carol, should only take 3 1/2 hrs from Calais from memory, depends if i can get DA to drive over 70, so mid-day-ish is my aim, “baguette is being prepared” apparently (hope that means something to you !!)

        1. Haha Darren- just think Darren’s wedding an baguettes will be clear……
          Great- have a good trip over and see you when you get there.

          PS Michael- do I get a pass to or just arrested?

    2. Hi Darren,

      don’t worry. Pass will send nixt days by email. Hope your printer works. But if you don’t have it – Police know there will be a little traffic for The Elephant … ;-)

      cu
      Michael

    3. Hey Darren,

      We’ll be travelling in style (if perhaps not comfort as 4 of us will be crammed in with all our stuff) in my mate’s silver Merc CL. We’ll keep an eye out for you guys.

      I think our plan will be to find somewhere in Calais to stock up on beer and other supplies, and then make our way there.

      Cheers,
      Nic

      1. Hey Nic
        look out for us, my van wont be empty but could defo help you out & make your journey more comfortable!
        not sure if you can get into the supermarkets before 9am over there so have a think about the beer b4 you leave,
        maybe beer & supplies around Brussels ?? (3 hrs later)
        Cheers, Darren

    4. Claire & Rob Neal
      18th August 2010, 17:44

      We are also booked on the 6:20 eurotunnel crossing on thurs morn(blue volvo v40 with a union jack in the boot)going to the elephant campsite. Give us a shout if you see us :) ill be the one who looks like a kid at christmas im so excited :D
      Cant wait to meet you all
      Claire x

      1. hi Claire, we’ll be looking out for you,
        see you there !!!

  223. As my girlfriend and I are first-rimers, I have a bit of a barrage of questions, if anyone could help with answers, would be most grateful!!!

    My girlfriend has a digital SLR camera, is this likely to be allowed in?

    As we’re in Belgium from Monday (apart from a day-trip to Frankfurt), we’re intending on going to the pit walk on Thursday, any idea what sort of time it starts and which area is best to park at for it? I can’t see any info anywhere on the net regarding it.

    We intend to move around the track a bit on Friday and Saturday (fully aware it’ll involve a lot of walking!), but on the Sunday is it wise to just pick one spot and stick to it?

    What sort of food is on offer in the Bronze area? (if there’s waffles and Jupiler, I’ll he happy!)

    Cheers

    Lee

    1. Hi Lee,

      You can take whatever camera you want in to the track.

      I believe the pit walk is about 3.30pm. We’re hoping to get there in time for it. No idea about parking, but I can’t imagine it will be a problem on the Thursday.

      You are right that the best thing to do is spend Friday and Saturday wandering around and then pick a spot for Sunday.

      The food is the same in all areas (except the Paddock Club!). They have frites with mayo, hot-dogs, waffles, and beer – although I don’t think it’s Jupiler.

      1. no – no Jupiler – it’s Forster

        Parking is also avaible at The Elephant – have a look to my website
        The Parkings infront of the intrance are reservated for Busses and “VIP”.

        cu
        Michael

        1. Michael
          Fosters stop sponsorship years ago!
          Last year it was Jupiler which is better! Hope so this year……
          Cheers! And everyone have a safe journey and see you there!

  224. Hi all

    Thought i would introduce myself, We are a party of 3 from Manchester staying at the elephant camp site. we are on the 11am Channel Tunnel crossing on Thursday.

    really looking forward to our 1st International F1 weekend and from the sounds of things we have picked a really good campsite.

    see you all on 26th for Beers and Burgers.
    Does anyone know what time the Thursday Pit walk is ?

    Cheers

    1. Thursday afternoon around 3:30 pm

    2. Great to say hi Paul.
      See you there!

  225. More northerners from blighty, excellent. There are 4 of us from Manchester and Liverpool catching the midday ferry from Dover in a VW transporter Van. Pit lane walk is at 3ish but think we will be missing it. Defo up for the Beers and burgers on Thurs and the Beer salute at Eau Rouge at end of the race.

    just wish I could do this every year!

    1. Michael drink coke and red bull ;-) – no beer!

      1. Gonna be a pretty thisty Michaal by the looks of things……

  226. Don’t worry Michael, Im sure we can drink your share of the beers.

    When I say from Manc , I mean I am. The other 2 are token Mancs as they live here now, One’s Welsh the others from Wolverhampton other than thay they are good guys.

    See you Thursday then Rick 1st one there gets the BBQ going.

  227. Well were all token mancs and scousers really! I’d best keep the welsh jokes under wraps then. See you in Spa! – like the BBQ’d steak medium rare please

    1. Hey wrong side of the pennines you lot! I am originally from Costa del Durham but am an Ossie (East German) now……
      Glad there are few from Newcastle also popping up……

  228. Kingsley Newman
    12th August 2010, 16:22

    oh dear..

    might have an issue here guys, BAA have decided to strike, and it could be over the bank holdiay weekend.. so might not be able to fly out / fly back..

    :L

    keep you all posted.

    1. should be ok now.. just panicing a bit haha :D

      1. Don’t fret Kingsley- you’ll make it there somehow!

        1. PS- you may even ba able to cadge a lift back as after all the beer has been drunk there will loads of space in the vehicles…..Lol
          We can check on the web whilst we there to make sure you can get back OK.

  229. Just wondering if it’s best to take all our food with us or buy when there. Is there anywhere near the Elephant to bet provisions?

    Seriously looking forward to it!!

    1. Dave
      there are supermarkets and shops in Francorchamps not far away and if you are in a car its no problem. it is difficult for those of us in campers as we are effectively fixed once parked.
      The baker comes daily with fresh bread rolls, baguettes etc and drinks otherwise up to you how you want to do things.
      Regards
      Carol

  230. For your sercurity:

    I engage a professional security man for nights!

    cu
    Michael

    1. Hi Michael

      I booked place in your camp for two days and got your email with bill for three days that I need to pay. I’m trying to contact you for a couple of days now, to sort this out but I can’t. I send you 2 emails already, tried to call few times on all three numbers and no answer. Please contact me at mario(DOT)gjurek(AT)gmail.com.

      tnx

      1. Hi Mario,

        I answered. 27th to 29th are 3 days. Sorry, prices are fixed by the community of Francorchamps per DAY (not stopover) and are beyond our control!

        cu
        Michael

        1. Hi,

          we plan to sleep just for two days, but have to pay for three nights…it is a little bit illogical even for us, and we are coming from country where everything is illogical ;)…but if you say these are the rules ok, well pay…and c u there

        2. Hi again

          I finnaly managed to pay the bill. I hope it’s all ok :) and now i’m waiting for my pass…

          another question: When are check in and check out hours?

          tnx, c u soon

          1. yep – thanks. Everything is okay. You get the confirmation.
            check in / check out – as you like. No limit.

            cu
            Michael

  231. Hi Michael (or any other spa resident)

    I have been following the weather forecast on the bbc website. It says it has been raining for days is this true?

    I know spa tends to have its own micro climate.

    Thanks Mike

    1. Mike just stole my question.

      The site forecasts either rain or nasty heavy rain for the next 5 days too.. Still two weeks for it to improve though. May I suggest an intercontinental sun prayer / wish by all those going to the race? Next Sunday at 1pm BST? (2pm Paris, 9.30pm Adelaide, 3pm Athens, 2pm Cape Town, 3pm Helsinki, 8am Indianapolis, 5am San Francisco, 8am Toronto, 4pm Moscow, 10pm Melbourne)

      A little rain on race day is good, but a total washout of a weekend wouldn’t be much fun.

      1. Hi Rob,

        this will be a good idea.
        Yea – the micro clima in Francorchamps is terrible. Today: rain rain rain … 14,7 °C grrrr
        Hope it will really change next Friday, but up to Friday forecast: rain rain rain ….
        Mike, the micro clima in Spa is different of Francorchamps ;-)

        Hmm, if its raining in 2 weeks … we can offer a fango bath ;-)

        PRAY!

  232. Hi all together who comes to The Elephant campside!

    I suggest all who comes to Francorchamps put a flag of your country on the car. You can see on the highway everybody see who comes to the circuit.

    cu
    Michael

    1. Michael
      can you please give me a clue as to just where i get a Brazil flag in Germany? Lol

      1. u r from Brazil?
        have a look in 1-euro-Shops … there I get an US flag ;-) hihi

        1. Michael
          I probably have more passports than you have credit cards- and yes one of them is Brazilian……

          1. Anthony Ferrari
            16th August 2010, 8:54

            I think this is a good idea. I’m sure there must be loads of cheap England flags around which are leftover from the World Cup!
            I’m going to try to get a Yorkshire flag though as I don’t want to be mistaken for a football fan!

          2. I’m sure I could dig out a Scottish Saltire! Do I need to bring a pole as well or is there somthing we can use at the Elephant?

    2. We have prepared a flag, and we even purchased the jerseys…So it will be almost impossible not to notice us in our red and white checkered shirts :)

  233. Hi’yall, have been reading this 2010 Belgian GP/Elephant appreciation thread with some interest :-)

    I’ve been to Spa several times before but haven’t visited the best F1 circuit since 2002, so I think some things may have changed.

    Before I’ve always camped in the woods behind Gold 2, never had a problem even with the loud music. After reading the forum and about the Green zone camping behind Les Combes, can anyone confirm that camping is still available behind Gold 2 or have they moved all that to an official site behind Les Combes?

    This year I’m taking my father, so although I’m prepared to rough it and sleep in chaos of Rammstein on “track repeat” at 4am, I’m thinking about The Elephant and relative calm… but the prices being per day not per night which when added up are making the Rammstein morning chorus more attractive. So really as I’ve not been for a few years, I’d like to know has the camping around the circuit (Gold 2) changed, is it still there, has it become more expensive?

    With the cost of a Gold ticket reflecting the name I’d rather try and keep costs down, but also provide an enjoyable weekend.

    1. Kev,

      Your right this does appear to be a site for the “Elephant campers fan club”. No problem with that as sounds a nice place but a bit biased no doubt.

      I’ve got seats in Gold 7 and have booked into the camping at the Green Zone behind Les Combes, and acording to reports on the forum not a good place to be. However I rang Spa and they have assured me there are toilets and showers and all facilities which are regularly cleaned. They have said there will be noise but would think that’s just a big camp site and won’t be any different to Silverstone which i’ve done for the last 10 years plus with no problems. This is the official campsite which can be pre-booked at 160 euros for the weekend.

      There is also camping in the Yellow zone around La Source but you can’t book it. Spa say it’s pay on the gate and sorry but don’t know the cost. They did say this was likely to be a quieter site but with less facilities.

      Hope this helps, but for sure you will not know what it’s like until after you’ve been. You can always join my son and I in the Green Zone, and hey after a few beers you won’t hear any noise.

      Whatever you do hope you Dad and you have a great weekend.

      Mick.

      1. Cheers Mick, from what you say it sounds like the “Yellow zone” is the one I’ve used on all my previous trips, although the website says the yellow zone is behind Gold1-9, on the other side of the circuit.

        When I used the campsites before noise was never really a great issue, actually put me in good training for the Euro festivals that I now goto instead. I like to wander the campsites and banter with what used to be the Dekra army and eventually ending up in the village of Francorchamps – IMO it is the best pre-race atmosphere on the calendar.

        The Elephant sounds like a good crowd too, and in a good location (despite that hill :-p), but having to pay 52 euro for a Friday when you don’t arrive until 11pm is a bit much considering I could sleep in a Hotel in Aachen for less and arrive early morning fed and refreshed, with money tight it is important to get value for money.

        1. A few non-elephant campers here too. Dunno how you are for transport but there are some good permanent sites a bit further from the track, though availablity would be a problem as it was for me a few weeks back.

          I’ve found a great looking site in a nice area 6km from the track and hired bikes, well looking forward to it!

          1. and it was just a third of the cost of Elephant, due to the Francorchamps policy of price fixing.

          2. Transport isn’t the problem, it is being sobre enough in the morning to use it :-p

            For me part of the whole Spa experience is the pre-race atmosphere that starts after Quali and continues through the night, so I wouldn’t want to go too far from Francorchamps. A 900m walk back up the hill would have made the Elephant just within range :-D

            But this question of pricing Rob, I wonder is it anything to do with the locals reportedly not happy with the race, afterall Francorchamps and the surrounding area is pretty trashed and I could understand why the locals would want to be compensated each year. Is this pricing system a new thing?

    2. Hi Kev,

      the prices are fixed by the community of Francorchamps per DAY (not stopover) and are beyond our control! Since 2002 prices are changed.

      The camp (P3)in the wood behind the tribunes is closed. P1 is for coaches, P2 and P4 for VIPs …
      The green area – pls read some treats before.
      Info you find also on my website.

      cu
      Michael

      1. Hi Michael,

        thanks for that, I’ve looked at your site and I can see on the map the areas you mean. I used to stay in P3, but P5, P6, P7 etc are these and all the other Blue P areas open for general camping without reservation? Also do you know for how much?

        I know that considering you run The Elephant it is a bit cheeky me asking you the costs of those sites, but I’ve just forked out for Gold 8 grandstands and I don’t want to sell another kidney as I’ll need it for the pre-race party on Saturday night. Any help is much appreciated :-)

        1. So does anyone know the cost of camping in the yellow zone? Can’t find prices anywhere.

  234. I’m so glad I found this thread! It has been so useful and answered so many questions for me, with this being my first F1 experience! Many Thanks to Michael and Carol in particular for all your help to everyone!

    I look forward to seeing you all at The Elephant :)

    1. and it was a third of the cost of Elephant, due to the Francorchamps policy of price fixing.

  235. BOTH replies above misplaced (sorry – been a long day at work) 3rd time lucky.

  236. Kingsley Newman
    16th August 2010, 17:04

    Not long now guys, looking forward to it!

    Regards to alcohol, I don’t drink beer (as of yet), and I tend to only drink cider. What are the cider supplies like out in Belgium?

    Will probably end up drinking anything out there though..

    See you all out in elephant (for those that are going)
    Kingsley

  237. I’m going to Spa this year and it will be my firs F1 race, I have bronze general admission tickets and I’ll be there Sauturday and Sunday. Can anyone tell me some good viewing spots around the track? Can you see Eau Rouge from any of the GA areas?

    1. Hi Lenny,

      here you can see where will be the Bronze places: http://www.spagrandprix.com/en/pages/tribune-bronze.aspx
      or here: http://francorchamps-camping.com/maprace.htm

      The map shows left the Paddock and Main Tribunes.
      So from Bronze you don’t see Eau Rouge but a lot of other interresant areas of the circuit.
      cu
      Michael

    2. Hi Lenny, good thing about Spa is that it is BIG! So although very popular the GA crowd are spread over a greater distance. Good GA spots IMO are (in no particular order) Kemmel-Les Combes, Pouhon and the old Bus stop chicane. You can see Eau Rouge from the “Village” area behind the Silver 2 grandstand, not ideal for watching the race but perfectly ok for a free practice session.

  238. Hi all
    of course some of us are biased if we have stayed somewhere we like for ages but of course people have different needs and tastes and I am sure we all fully respect that!

    As for the pricing stuff- well the event makes a huge loss every year so the local councils try and capitalise and fix the prices.
    The locals want their track to be kept- in fact they have a whole movement going to keep the site going. The ones who are blocking this are a bunch of greens complaining about noise, devastation etc……
    If you want to keep this track on the calendar then have a look here:
    http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000028129136&v=app_2309869772#!/group.php?gid=157243238667&ref=mf
    These local peeps are really trying to do something here.

    1. Hi Carol,

      nothing wrong in being biased, good to hear some great reviews, obviously many people like The Elephant for good reasons.

      As for pricing, yep I can well understand the reasons why the locals would want to make some money out of the misery that 100,000 fans bring, some of the mess I’ve seen left behind is pretty embarassing. Thanks for the link, as until now I thought the majority were the ones opposing the race being held.

  239. hey… but thought I’d say hi to everyone, there’s a group of 9 of us going to spa – getting there Thursday. We’re staying in the elephant (partly thanks to Carol’s reviews on the forums!) and I can’t wait!!

    think I just emailed this to Michael, but thought I’d stick it on the forum in case others have the same questions

    some of us are getting there by car, some by train.

    What’s the easiest way to get to the campsite by train? Is it getting the train to Vervier then bus to francorchamp?

    Also we were wondering, can we move the cars in and out of the campsite? (eg to go to a supermarket), Where is the nearest supermarket/food shop?(for top up supplies) And are there places to get a meal within walking distance of the campsite?

    Is anyone else getting the eurostar across? think we leave london at 8.30, should get to brussels 11.30.. hopefully give us enough time to set up before the pit lane walkabout.

    Really looking forward to it, see you in a couple of weeks!

    Sara

    1. Hi Sara,

      I am coming over by plane to brussels and then a train onwards.

      I think a couple pages before someone outlines their journey, but to get a train you go from brussels to louvain. louvain to verviers. and then a bus from verviers to francorchamps. train tickets can be bought online, so that helps.

      Thanks!
      Kingsley

    2. Hi Sara,

      infos to comming by train and bus you can finde here: http://francorchamps-camping.com/train.htm
      Train to Verviers Central – Buss # 395
      or u call me to pick up.
      Of corse you can move your car in and out as you like – its a campside, not a prison ;-)
      Fresh Bred and Rolls and Eggs and some Drinks you find also at the camp. But supermarket are not far.
      Francorchamps have some Restaurants. But I think if you like to eat there better you are not hungry ;-) . Better you go to Spa or Malmedy.

      PitWalk will be arund 15:30

      cu in some days
      Michael

    3. Hi Sara
      hope you have a trouble free and safe trip over.
      For details on busses and trains there is a post one or two pages back with loads of info so take a look.
      You can get in and out of the site no problems during your stay. The nearest shops are in Francorchamps a couple of minutes away for top ups and anything you need (not tried it myself so relying on feedback there).
      There are local pubs in the village where you can get a meal- seems pretty simple fare but looks OK!
      Look forward to seeing you all!
      Cheers
      C

  240. WOOHOOO. STRIKES ARE CALLED OFF! :)

  241. Thanks Michael! I’d just heard a rumour the roads around the campsite were closed, it’s useful to know about breakfast as well, I don’t tend to function well in the morning!

    Really getting excited now! see you in a few days, can’t wait!! (and realised it’s less than 2 weeks, silly me :D )

    1. you get a pass for the police from me, so you have no problems on the way to the campside.

      The baker also will have coffee … :-)

      1. Coffee? Aw now that might have just swung it and made the decision so much easier :-)

        1. Kev
          freshly brewed coffee also available from our pitch- all you need is a mug as I only have 2 but if you want a cuppa or six you are more than welcome! (PS bring your own sugar!)

          1. Sounds even better, don’t need sugar though, I just dip my finger in – apparently I’m sweet enough so the wife tells me… ok, well she has never actually said that :-)

            If I do end up at the Elephant (still trying to find costs of Yellow zone camping) then I could give you my mobile number incase you need any extra coffe bringing from Germany on Friday/Saturday, sounds like you might run out :-)

          2. Anthony Ferrari
            18th August 2010, 9:43

            I’ll bring a Ferrari mug and some biscuits – any requests?

  242. Greetings all, not long now, very excited!!!

    Does anyone know which area is best to park for the pitwalk on Thursday?

    At the moment I’m just planning to head for the La Source end and hope to find somewhere there, is this the best way?

    Also, anyone else heading over the border to the Nordschleife during their stay? :-D

    1. Hi Lee, on a Thursday I would have thought head towards La Source through the village, take a left at the roundabout and park in one of the areas behind Gold 2. But then my info is based on experience from ’96-2002, things might have changed since then.

      For the N’ring, check with their website to make sure they have track days, it is a long awkward way to go from Spa just to find it’s closed :-) I go to the N’ring every year for festivals and always wanted to drive the Ring, in 2007 whilst visiting relatives nearby I decided to go for a special trip around the Green hell, it was closed due to one Herr Heidfeld driving an F1 car around the track, the first time in 30 years, typical! :-)

      http://www.nuerburgring.de/en/

      1. Guys
        forget the Nordschleife etc around that weekend as its the FIA GT race meeting that weekend so probably packed.

  243. Hey Michael,

    I might take you up on your offer of a lift from Verviers to Spa if thats alright? I will probably get on the wrong bus / go too far and next thing I know be in Liege or somewhere stupid! I will happily give you some euros for your troubles!

    Will this be OK?

    Cheers
    Kingsley

    1. Hi Kingsley
      drop Michael a mail with estimated ETA and am sure he can sort you out.
      Glad to hear the strikes are off- relief!

    2. Hi Kingsley,

      to pick you up in Verviers Central Station is no problem.
      If you take a bus from Verviers to Spa … I gave to pick you up in Spa and go with you to Francorchamps (~ 12 km) ;-)
      phone me …

      cu
      Michael

      1. Kingsley Newman
        18th August 2010, 8:37

        Hi Michael,

        Whatever is easiest for you, I dont mind getting a bus, but are the bus drivers in belgium friendly? will they tell you when to get off if you ask them nicely?

        Cheers
        Kingsley

  244. Hi
    A few questions:
    What are the opening hours of shops and restaurants?

    We plan to walk around the track on Friday and Saturday and found us a place for Sunday. According to the maps, it seems that all the bronze areas are interconnected. So can we walk all around or cant?

    What happens in the camp, if will rain heavily? Will we be knee-deep in mud, including our car and tent?

    only four days and we head to Belgium … we have long way up … i cannot wait:)

    1. yes, there are paths between all the Bronze areas. I found Les Combes and Pouhon to be 2 good places to watch from during Friday practice. Watching the drivers try to find the absolute limit into Les Combes is great, we’ll likely see a few exceed it and go straight on, while Pouhon is good especially if its raining as its such a difficult corner to get right and an off will see the driver in the tyre wall, as Alguersuari did last year.

      1. cool tnx…they are now marked on my map :)

    2. Mario
      don’t worry- the only time the weather really was extreme was 2008 when it poured from Tuesday throughout the whole weekend and we had to get the neighbour’s tractor to tow us out. Last year was pretty good and all my visits before that. It will rain at some point- it always does there.
      AS for restaurants and shops- they are open usual sort of daytime hours- baker comes every morning with bread and other things and i understand coffee now (this is new and proves Michael is listening to us…..!) otherwise drop by to say hello and have a coffee with us (proper European brewed coffee not british instant stuff!)
      Cheers
      C

      1. Tnx Carol
        we can handle a little rain, but we dont wanna be flooded. As for coffee, we both like good coffee. Where ever we go, we carry a little stove, just for coffee :)…But we could drop by for a cup, just dont know how to find you all there. I think we will be only Croats there, so when you see someone in checkered jerseys, that will probably be us (me and my wife)…

        cheers, and c u

        1. Mario
          no problem- just ask for Carol and they will send you to us. Look forward to a coffee with you guys! You will also be able to identify us with a unique flag……….

          1. Cool…If i am not mistaken you’ll have Brazilian flag?

  245. Hi All
    My wife has booked us bronze weekend tickets for the Belgian F1 as a 40th birthday present for me. I’ve never been to a live race but am a F1 fan so very excited about it (my wife’s been to the Czech grand prix before). Now here’s the slight issue – she booked it in April and all the nearby hotels were full so she booked us a hotel around 1 hour from the track (per Google maps, i.e. ignoring traffic). She told me about my birthday surprise a couple of days ago and I found this excellent discussion when researching for decent places to view the race in the general access areas. This forum has killed the naive idea we had that we could drive to the track after a leisurely breakfast in our hotel and walk about the general access area to find a reasonable spot! Looks more like we would need to arrive at the track by 7.30am to get a decent position, which would probably mean leaving our hotel around 5am to 5.30am on race day. I’ve skimmed this discussion and a lot of people seem to prefer camping at the Elephant? Our hotel is only reserved, not paid for, so can be cancelled and I wondered if I am too late for the Elephant option or should I just stick to my hotel? By the way, we currently live in Paris (from Bristol originally) and will be driving up from Paris (4 hours) on the Saturday morning.
    Thanks
    Dave

    1. Hi Dave,

      Congratulations to your wife on the great choice of race to pop your F1 cherry. My first race was Silverstone ’96, learned a very important lesson, General Admission tickets require an early start to grab the best spots. Although Spa is better for GA compared to Silverstone due to the height of the vantage points and length of circuit, it will still get very busy on race day. So needless to say, to avoid the dissapointment I had on my first F1 live event, get in there early.

      You could scrap the hotel and camp, the atmosphere is great, but if the weather turns bad on Saturday you might wish you had that nice warm, dry hotel room and good food. If I were staying in the hotel then I’d leave to get to the circuit before 7am race day, actually earlier the better, if you camp 900m away you still have to get up early, but with the after effects of the pre-race party the night before your sore head might have other ideas :-p

      1. Hi Dave
        totally agree with Kev- Spa was my first ever live race 2005 and been addicted to the place ever since. He is also right you need to be there early if you are GA on raceday. Its up to you what you want to do- we’d love to see you but a warm hotel bed does have its attractions!
        For another suggestion drop me a mail please
        carol.treurnicht@arcor.de where maybe you can have the best of both worlds.
        Cheers
        C

        1. Thanks Carol, I’ve sent you an email.

          1. Hi Dave
            just sent you a mail back with a rather loopy suggestion…….
            C

  246. Michelle from Newcastle
    17th August 2010, 11:27

    I’m sure the answer will be no, but may as well ask…

    is there any unsecured wi-fi access around there?

    1. Not sure about that Michelle.What sort of access are you looking for and what do you want to do? Maybe we can help you out there depending!
      C

  247. Hi peeps
    some little bit of news for you.
    Pitwalk has now been confirmed at 4:30pm to 6pm so those of you arriving Thrusday in a rush got a hour extra time…….give it some wellie and you’ll make it still!
    Also the long range weather forecast is not too exciting for us campers- daytime highs of around 18 degrees C and regular showers so it will be pretty chilly evenings. For those of you going GA and doing the dawn run to the track on raceday then take a blanket for your legs as its usually pretty cold and foggy till the sun gets up (if it does that is).
    Also- although the gates open at 6 or 7 depending the coffee stands etc don’t open up till 8!
    C

    1. That’s great news – as it was going to be a bit of a rush for us.

      do you have a link to anywhere that has details on the pit walk?

      how long does it take to walk across from the campsite to the pits?

      Thanks for the weather forecast as well! although I’m still crossing my fingers for a sunny weekend (while packing waterproofs!)

      1. Hi Sara
        I got an email from the track about the pitwalk so it should be pretty accurate…
        it takes about 20 minutes to get to the La Source entrance (it is a bit further than the usual Ster entrance we use but the pitwalk access is through La Source…..easy from Elephant….walk down track and turn right at roundabout- then you see the entrance on the left).
        Those still needing tickets can get them there on their way in.
        Hope this helps
        C

      2. Weather looking not too bad according to metcheck.com. May be a wee bit rain Sunday. Fingers crossed it doesn’t arrive though!

    2. 6 or 7am for the gates on raceday? damn, that makes for a very early start.. I was really hoping for 7am at the earliest. I dont think there’s any action on track til about 10am. That’s it.. I really am gonna take my sleeping bag n earplugs for a snooze once I get in.

      1. LOL 7am is a luxury :-D

        GA at Imola you have to camp outside the gate throughout the night, at Monaco to get a good GA place you have to get in there at 10pm Saturday night, then you have to stay on that small piece of rock for 14 hours before the race starts and defend your real estate from the masses swarming around you. Spa is much easier in comparison, partly due to the size of track.

        Take a small cooker for coffee and fried potatoes/beans, the time will soon pass and hopefully the sun will appear to warm you up, the hard work you put in early will pay off later. GA is all about survival :-)

        1. Can we take camping chairs on track? Is that smart or is better to take blanket and some sitting pads?

          1. Anthony Ferrari
            18th August 2010, 12:24

            We take camping chairs.

          2. Lotsa people take chairs, in fact, the best thing I’ve seen at a track in terms of setup was 4 guys who arrived at Les Combes beside me in 2008 and each then started to build umpire style chairs! they must have been about 7/8 feet in the air, with a perfect view of the chicane.

            If I can I’ll try and stick a pic I took up on this site.

            I’d do the same but I’m restricted by what I can carry onto a plane, though I may try to befriend someone over there this year who would take delivery and hold onto such a chair for me next year.

          3. We’ll be taking the ones with the ‘in-built’ beer can holders…….

          4. we also have ones with the ‘in-built’ beer can holders…so i guess we’ll bring them to the track…we just need to buy some beeer to put it in there ;)…we can bring beer too?

          5. Anthony Ferrari
            18th August 2010, 13:56

            You seem to be able to bring in whatever you want. I don’t remember my bags being searched.

        2. SOunds like a partyyyyyyyyyy!!!

          1. Yep- chairs with the beer can (wine glass!!!!!!!!!!! in my case) holders seem to be the norm. Better to have a chair of some sort as the grass is pretty cold……
            As Anthony says- you can take in cans, plastic bottles, tetra packs no bottles but the searches are pretty few and far between.
            Beer at the track costs €4 or €5 per can so do bring your own or it gets mega expensive…………

      2. Rob
        its not a long wait really- and if we are a bunch its usally a bit of a gas!
        First race is Formula BMW around 8:30 so after that there is usually something going on to keep us amused!

        1. Carol
          what is happening on friday and saturday? Or shall i say when is what happening. I know F1 schedule, but is there anything else?

          tnx

          1. Mario
            we also have all the support races- practices, and qualis and the races themselves.
            In Europe we have the Formula BMW (they are great and the guys are crazy so usually loads of action), GP2- also good stuff usually especially if it rains a bit in Spa, GP3 (yeah very quiet so usual excuse for a break for something to eat……..) and Porsche supercup.
            i don’t have the complete timetable yet but will post here as soon as i have it!
            No sadly did not find a Brazilian flag but we have one that no longer exists- see if you spot it!
            Friday we have FP1 at 10 and FP2 at 2pm- in between and thereafter the qualis/practices of the other series.
            Saturday FP2 at 11 and quali at 2pm- in between other series and around 4pm the first GP2 race- you should watch that- last year Petrov did some spectacular lawnmowing…..its all good stuff!
            You will have a great time (and good coffee!)

          2. tnx Carol,
            In the meantime I found the whole schedule at this link http://www.formula1.com/races/in_detail/belgium_836/event_timetable.html (tnx to Alannah)
            we leave Paris on Friday morning and I hope we’ll be there by second F1 practice … and on Saturday and Sunday we plan to be on track the whole day :)

    3. With us wearing our kilts do you think we’ll also need blankets Carol…lol.??

      1. Haha Steve- good one! Am sure if we freeze we’ll just have to have a wake up beer to get us going!

  248. Weather forecast I will update till Tuesday next week as we will be leaving at 6am Wednesday!

    1. What? Haven’t you got a mobile phone and 3G connection for t’internet? Some people just give up too easy ;-)

      1. I wanna know aboout WiFi acess too (even payed)…because we will be in roaming and i’m not from EU, so my prices are enormous, it is 0.8 € for 100kb…yes 100 kb is 0.8€ :((

        Can we buy prepaid SIM and use local mobile operator? Can someone recommend which one.

        tnx

      2. Yeah I do Kev but will not be updating here when we are all there if you get my drift!

        1. Hi all,

          okay – I will arrange someone who sell prepaid SIM – will aks him tomorrow.

          cu
          Michael

  249. could someone tell me if the laissez passer vehicule i got emailed to me by micheal is for camping aswell as parking.will i print it out ad bring it with me?

    1. Anthony Ferrari
      18th August 2010, 9:47

      You just print it and stick it in your car windscreen. The police will then let you go down roads that are shut to the general public.

      1. not bringing a car dude.do i use that pass to camp at the site to?

        cheerz

        1. Anthony
          if you are not bringing a vehicle then you don’t need the thing- keep it as a souvenir!

          1. thank you carol.is it just give your name at the gate of the elephant?

        2. Anthony
          when you arrive just show your booking confirmation and you’re all set to look for a nice pitch.
          The pass is just in case the police have closed the roads so you can drive in the closed roads. When are you arriving?
          Cheers
          C

          1. hi carol.
            we be there around 4pm thursday ples god,
            have the confirmations beeen sent out already.hope i didn delete it from my emails if it was sent already.going to check for it now,

            thank you carol

          2. think iv found it carol

      2. Anthony
        we NEVER run out of coffee!
        Custard creams please or fig rolls or garibaldi………..
        C!
        PS- we still got your apron!

        1. Anthony Ferrari
          19th August 2010, 11:36

          Carol, I called at the shop this morning to get biscuits.
          I was worried that I’d look like a football fan with an England flag, but there are so many of them left over from the world cup that they’re really cheap! Thought I’d balance it up with my Ferrari flag!

          P.S. The apron was a gift for looking after us so well!

          1. Rolf loves it!
            We got a special flag you guys can have a laugh over when you see it……more i won’t say at this stage!
            Have a safe trip and great to catch up with you and Joe again (man he has grown up this last year!)

      3. The elephant is the lates public parking from the circuit. P1 is only for coaches, P 2 and 4 VIP, P3 closed.

        With the “laissez passer vehicule” yiu can use the green signed street on the map to receive without traffic jam the campside. The village is normal for tourists closed.

        1. are you sendin out passes for camping in the Elephant or do we give our names at the gate

          thanks

          1. Anthony-
            the passes are for the closed roads so you can get there only. If you have booked then just show your confirmation on arrival or identify yourself….no problems mate! You’ll be fine!

  250. kev,

    I have emailed spa to ask the cost of yellow zone camping. As soon as I get an answer I’ll let you know.

  251. kev,

    Yellow zone camping same cost as green zone€160 for weekend. They say full facilities available.

    I think I might try to switch my green zone booking to here as much nearer gold 7 where we are sitting

    1. Mick, thanks very much for that, I dunno why I didn’t think of emailing them myself – Doh!

      Yellow zone would be better for the village and atmosphere I think, but I understand it is on a first come first served basis, but can’t see it being full Saturday night let alone Thursday/Friday whenever you turn up. Does seem strange though charging 160 euro on the gate for yellow zone, rather alot of cash for them to be holding on site throughout the night.

      1. Green zone is 160 Euro for the WE (26.-29.[4 Days])or 60 Euro/Day.
        Yellow zone 135 Euro for the WE or 40 Euro/Day.
        Both without extra costs for diff. services.
        http://www.spagrandprix.com/
        http://francorchamps-camping.com/preise.htm

  252. just over a week to go!!

    3 of us from Oxford heading over on the 4am dover- dunkirk on the Friday morning. Cannot wait!

    Spain last year was my first live GP and this one will be even better. just booked Silverstone for next year too.

    Staying at the Elephant and really looking forward to meeting you all

    Charcoal vito van

  253. Carol,

    First F1 visit for four of us and can’t wait. We are camping at another site but we would love to meet up with your crowd at the track if at all possible; where about approximately will we find you? Also did I see there is a meet up on Friday night at a cafe? I so we’d be up for that!

    Cheers Bernie

    1. Hi Bernie
      my contact number is +49 173 422 7492 so feel free to buzz us any time.
      It should also be up on the website about the meet in the pub Friday so look forward to meeting up – especially if you need help in finding the Cafe (its only a couple of hundred yards from the camp and they have great beers at totally mad prices……..last year it was €1.20…….

      1. This friday meet in the pub, you’ll post info on this site or somwhere else? We plan to be there :)

        1. Mario
          no probs- we will have met up by then I am sure- but otherwise the details are here
          http://www.fofassociation.com
          or if you don’t see us call
          +49 173 422 7492——
          Will look out for you in your Croatian jerseys!

          1. Carol
            I found all i need, wrote down all details, and contacts. So i guess it wont be hard to find you all.
            We are equiped like we are going on FIFA world cup (jerseys, flag, banner )…
            It’s just one more day before we get on the way. We leave Zagreb on saturday morning. I’m so excited :) This will be our first F1 event!

  254. Michelle from Newcastle
    18th August 2010, 19:29

    We’re starting our trip on Monday, with a full day at Brooklands on Tuesday, getting eurotunnel on weds lunchtime, staying in calais overnight, then travelling to Elephant on Thurs – I assume the Elephanters will be heading to pit walk en masse on Thursday?

    Carol, I was just wondering if there was wi-fi so that I don’t get withdrawal symptoms, not used to being away from a PC lol!! no worries, it was just greed – nothing else!

    We’ll be in a blue cliosport and I’m hoping we’ll have a Union Jack and a Northumberland flag to fly!

    Claire and Rob, we’ll probably be following you (a couple of hours behind by the time we get up and about!) If you want to get in touch with me before hand and swap mobile numbers so we make sure we meet up over there it’s mkstanton@btinternet.com

  255. I’ll not remember all the names, except Michael and of course the ever so helpful Carol :-) I look forward to hopefully meeting up with all you folks on this blog at the Elephant and / or the track!

    We are team of 4 friendly beings travelling from Edinburgh and I’m sure you’ll recognise us over the weekend looking very resplendant in our traditional Scottish dress (until the beer kicks in that is)!

    We are in a silver RAV4 arriving Thursday morning and hope to have a wee flag flying from somewhere. Please feel free to introduce yourselves. Will try to bring some Haggis to share around the camp fire / bbq so those of you wanting a wee taste then happy to provide but get in quick (please note that being Scottish, this kind and very extravagent gesture of goodwill may however cost you a cup of coffee or tea……..maybe a beer(s)….)!

    Have a safe journey all.

  256. Hi folks
    couple of infos:
    For those of you asking about WiFi etc i have asked Michael to give us some info here or let me know (i could help you in Germany but don’t knwo the best deals in Belgium) so watch this space.
    Also we have a very good flag- so we’ll be pretty noticeable I think! Lol

  257. I hear that the 3 day weekend tickets allow you to access the pitlane?. Is this only available on Thursday or for the whole weekend?

    1. Anthony Ferrari
      19th August 2010, 11:37

      Just Thursday at 4.30pm

  258. Hi All

    If anyone is going to a supermarket on the Thursday can we (2 of us) catch a ride with you to buy supplies? Dont fancy eating Nutri-Grains for the whole weekend.

    Cheers Oatsey

    1. Kingsley Newman
      19th August 2010, 12:37

      That’s not a bad idea.. if nayone can spare 1 seat would be very much appreciateD!!

  259. in response to mario, if u go to the f1 websie there is a timetable of all the events going on over the weekend from gp2-formula bmw :D not long now guys! just getting the last things now ear plugs etc !! very excited!!!!

    1. tnx :)…last time i checeked it was only F1 schedule…i guess they filled it up in menatime…

    2. tnx :)…last time i checked, it was only F1 schedule…i guess they filled it up in meantime…

      are ear plugs mandatory or you can survive without them? i am sound engenier, and i am used to loud sound, and little bit deaf allready ;)

      1. I generally do without them, but find its good to have a pair just incase. (Maybe if you’re nursing a sore head they’re needed).

  260. hello we have booked eau rouge tickets from spa but they have not arrived yet has anyone else had theirs -jenny

  261. hello we have booked eau rouge tickets from spa.be.com has anyone else had theirs yet as we are still waiting

    1. We booked gold 4 through another site and they arrived a few weeks ago – i’d chase them as its a bit too close.

    2. Jenny
      I would enquire if I were you as it is getting a bit late now.
      i think most here have their tickets now……
      Good luck!

    3. Hi Jenny, what was the latest on your tickets? I remember the last time I booked grandstand tickets direct from Spa they also came very late, but you should get in contact with them just incase. However don’t worry, I’m sure that if they’ve sent them out too late then you can get replacements printed at the circuit ticket office, I’ve heard of this being done before.

      BTW I’m still waiting for my tickets to arrive – Postman now passing our house gingerley for fear of me pouncing on him out of the bushes – “GOTCHYA, ANY MAIL, any mail?” :-p

  262. Hi all
    another little bit of information
    been talking to Michael about the best internet deals for the short time there with local providers- he is looking into it (please bear with us- this is the first time on our list of enquiries so we have it on our list of things to offer in the future) so we’ll see what we can come up with to give you guys a best deal and maybe even get someone to come to the site to fix you up.
    Watch this space for details. Either I or Michael will post something in the next day or so.
    Cheers
    C

    1. Anyone got an idea of the 3G coverage around the campsite and/or track?

      Have got a UK T-Mobile contract so I think it’s Base, Mobistar & Proximus that provide coverage in Belgium.

      Cheers

      1. Hi Bloggs, just a word of warning about Data roaming charges, they can be very high. Good news is that EU legislation recently came into affect limiting data roaming use to 50 euro per day, bad news is that with prices/Kb so high you could easily reach the limit within minutes depending on what you look at.

        For anyone with a smartphone that relies heavily on internet connection to update profiles, facebook, twitter etc Before leaving your country make sure you switch off automatic data connection, before this new legislation came in people were receiving bills in the 1,000s of euros for small trips abroad.

        Hopefully Michael/Carol can find some info on prepaid cards for the internet junkies amongst us. I did want to use my 3G phone to receive the live timing info, but considering costs I opted to hire one of the Kangaroo TVs at 50 euro for the weekend. Anyone else hired one of these TVs before?

        1. Hi Kev,

          Yeah I’d looked into the roaming pricing just to be sure I wouldn’t (or shouldn’t) get stung!

          I found out I can get an add-on to my account that gives me upto 20MB data over a 7-day period for a fiver, or 50MB for a tenner. After that it’s £1.50 per MB. I probably won’t use it much but as I’m travelling out to Spa by motorbike on Wednesday (arriving at the Elephant on Thursday) I figured it may be worth having. I don’t have to pay up-front for it as I will be offered the deal the first time I try to connect to the web when in Europe.

          I can also get a better deal (+50%) on talk & text. For £5 I can get £7.50 worth of credit. Since calls back to the UK cost 38p/min and 14p/min to receive calls it’s definitely worth having. Texts are 10p each so that’s no real problem.

          The other option I have for making calls from abroad is to use Skype on the phone and access it via the web package above. It all depends on how much data Skype needs for making calls. I’ll hopefully get time this weekend to test it all out before I leave.

          1. Kingsley Newman
            20th August 2010, 12:07

            I have a blackberry and I have to turn off data services while roaming to avoid major costs!

            Don’t want my work emailing me whilst im on holiday!!

          2. Bloggs, sounds like a good deal, perhaps others would find that interesting if they can’t get a Belgian deal.

        2. Kev,

          Have used Kangaroo TV’s for last few years at Silverstone and have booked one to colect at Spa.

          They really are great, give laods of info, and add real value to the weekend. I would definatley recommend getting one.

      2. Hi Bloggs
        i also have T-mobile and this is what i dug out from them
        Preise T-Mobile UMTS Roaming in Belgien
        Tarifname: Ländergruppe 1
        gültig in folgenden Netzen: BASE, Belgacom Mobile (PROXIMUS), Mobistar
        Kosten pro Datenblock: 0.19 €
        Größe Datenblock: 100 KB
        Kosten pro Verbindung: keine
        Kosten pro Stunde: keine
        Kosten pro Tag: 0.49 €Der Tagesnutzungspreis wird pro Tag berechnet (0-24 Uhr). Es gilt die deutsche Zeit.
        Ie €0.19 per 100kb Data plus €0.49 daily.
        Not sure what tariff you have……but assume that is what it will cost me….we also have laptop with us.

        1. Hi Carol,

          I had to translate that (Google) but I get the gist of it. My contract is in the UK and the T-Mobile site lists the following rates for Belgium (in case it’s of use to anyone)….

          Belgium (Zone 2A)
          Making calls (any country, anytime) = 38p
          Receiving calls (any country, anytime) = 14p
          Retrieving voicemail = 38p
          Text to UK = 10p
          Text to non-UK = 10p
          Picture message to UK = 20p
          Picture message to non-UK = 20p
          Receiving a text or picture message = free
          WAP (using GPRS) = £1.50 per Mb
          BlackBerry = 0.14p per Kb
          3G (where available) = £1.50 per Mb

  263. Andrea Frederick
    19th August 2010, 23:59

    Hi All! Getting so excited! We’re coming from the US, (leaving Sunday and spending a few days in Brussels/Bruges/Amsterdam before making our way to Liege (we’re not camping). We’d still love to meet up for the Friday pub action – if that’s still on!

    1. Andrea
      of course we are still on for Friday at the Cafe Bertrand…….look forward to meeting up with you there. Have a good trip over!

      1. Andrea Frederick
        20th August 2010, 23:22

        Thanks Carol! Sorry to be a pain, but after Googling, I can’t find a listing for Cafe Bertrand. Can you share any details about where it is, so we can find it and any particular time? Thanks so much — looking forward to it!

        1. Hi Andrea
          it is in Rue Mathieu Nissen, Hameau de Ster, 4970 Stavelot- we’ll be there from about 8pm on…….
          We are having a practice run on Wednesday to make sure the beer etc is ok! Winks!

          1. Thanks again, Carol!

            Hope to see you! I can’t believe we’re finally leaving tomorrow. Spent all day packing up. Can’t wait!

  264. Hello all- We are also coming from the US. We are staying at the Elephant B&B and are planning to hook up with the Elephant campers and all the rest of the f1fanatic bloggers. We’re still contemplating bringing chairs with beer holders as checked baggage (we’re ready to party too)…but haven’t decided yet. we have a collapsible cooler for beverages and food too. CAN’T WAIT!!!!!

    1. Connie
      plug this number into your phone:
      +49 173 422 7492 and let me know how you get on with the chairs etc…….if its going to cost you a fortune then don’t do it. We can lend you a couple of deckchairs no probs (especially as today I invested in a socalled Bierzeltgarnitur…….. Biergarten table with two benches…..after all we need something to sit on for our coffee, beer or whatever!)
      Am also totally excited now!
      You also have a safe trip over!

      1. Anthony Ferrari
        23rd August 2010, 8:00

        I’ll be bringing spare chairs too.

  265. I have two tickets for Eau Rouge 3 covered for next weekend, if any one wants them please email me at lib.bowman@gmail.com to discuss prices. Having to cancel the trip due to illness, please email me asap.

    1. Kingsley Newman
      20th August 2010, 12:48

      have you tried ebay?

    2. sorry2 hear that.hope you get good money for them :(

      1. Sorry to hear that Libby- shame. Good luck in getting rid and hope you or whoever is poorly makes a speedy recovery.

    3. Apologies but the tickets are no longer available, thank you for the good wishes and interest

  266. Claire & Rob Neal
    20th August 2010, 17:06

    HELP! We were going to borrow my dad’s sat nav for the trip from through france and to the elephant but it only has UK on it :( we are on the 6:20 eurotunnel anyone else going that time (i know a few of you are) so we can maybe follow you???
    Sorry im just stressing that we may get lost even though hubby is confident we wont :)
    Claire
    x

    1. Claire & Rob Neal
      20th August 2010, 17:07

      *EDIT 6:20 eurotunnel thursday morning :)

      1. hey Claire
        we’ll try & go in convoy, exchange numbers at folkestone just incase
        Darren

        1. We are also on the 6.20 eurotunnel on Thursday morning so sounds like there will be quite a convoy of people making their way to the Elephant. I’ll try and put the elephant pass in the car window otherwise look out for a light blue ford c-max.

          So excited for our first trip to this race I started going through the camping stuff this afternoon so will probably be all packed and ready to go 4 days early!

          1. CharlieAndSuzie
            22nd August 2010, 17:31

            We are on the 6:20 Eurotunnel as well – I don’t think we’ll have time to sort out a flag, so I’ll stick some pictures of elephants up in the car windows to show that we’re part of the convoy.

            So excited – only three more days at work ’til Spa!

    2. Claire, believe in your hubby, afterall he is a bloke :-p and honestly it is easy to find so long as you head to wards Liege and follow the main route.

    3. We’re on the 3.20ish following our drive straight down from Edinburgh so will be over before you. Looking forward to a sleep when we get to the Elephant!
      Safe journey.

  267. Claire and Rob- When traveling in Europe (prior to the use of GPS devices) we used the via michelin website for directions. With the via michelin point to point maps, we rarely got lost. Even with the GPS, I print out these maps “just in case”.

    1. Claire & Rob Neal
      20th August 2010, 17:19

      Cheers Connie,
      We do plan on printing said directions off that website and we do have a road map also its just me being extra paranoid :) nothing and i mean NOTHING is going to spoil our long weekend away :) No kids for 6 days and our first ever live Grand Prix im a little bit excited :D im doing Robs head in :) lol
      xxx

      1. Claire and Rob,
        u get mail with the way.
        Google map can tell u
        or ask a Police man – they know the way.

        Take care – there is a radar E15/A26/Calais/Lille/Reims/Paris/ at km 36,4 !!!

        cu
        Michael

      2. I can understand your paranoia, but sounds like Rob is need for a beer or three, I ‘ll be happy to oblige. Don’t worry you are going to have a great time… just expect rain :-)

  268. Hello all, I’m leaving for Belgium from the States in a few days, and I have to know; if I get there around 10 on Sunday will I be able to get a spot? From all that I’ve been told and read I know I won’t get anything good, but at this point it really doesn’t matter to me. All that matters to me at this point is will I get a spot where I can see a small portion of the track? Doesn’t matter where. Will there be ANY space?

    1. Hi DK,

      don’t worry – it will.

      cu
      Michael

    2. DK- you won’t get a good spot at that time but call us and come join us – sure we can squeeze you in!
      Cheers
      Carol

    3. Hi DK, I have to slightly disagree with Carol, obviously the earlier you get in the better, however the smaller the group you are it is easier to find a good spot. If a single person on their own can slide into good vantage point then a couple isn’t so much different. The good thing about Spa is that due to the track being so long the usual General Admission crowd is spread over a large area, unlike places such as Monaco where it is a real nightmare.

      So get in early if you can, but if you can’t and your group is small then you will find a spot you are after if you are persistent enough.

      1. Hi DK,

        I’d take Carol up on her offer since the Kemmel straight would be a decent place to view from, possibly within range of the big screen.

        I’d slightly disagree with Kev, my experience the last few years standing over Liege corner has been that by 10am the crowd is 5 or 6 deep along the fencing meaning that unless you’re NBA tall you’ll be looking at the backs of heads and little else. Same situation applies right down the fencing to Pouhon. There may be a little more space on the Kemmel straight given the fact that you have the whole grassy slope to sit on.

        1. Well yes at the best spots it will be crowded, DK was asking if anywhere would be free at that time, places will be free.

          Silverstone is pretty crap for General admission, Spa has the benefit of height overlooking the track in most places. Kemmel has a pretty large bank and the rund down to Pouhon has an even bigger one, these would be the spots I would aim for at that time of morning on race day.

          1. DK
            the only sensible thing i can suggest is that as there are a bunch of us getting there early we spread ourselves out a bit so for those of you wanting to join us but maybe cannot get there till later then we can bunch up a bit and squeeze you guys in. No probs there.
            Yeah Kev is also right but quite honestly i would prefer to sit in the first row with my chair firmly parked on solid ground than on some wet grassy slope where you could just fall on your face at any moment!
            Let us know what you think DK and plug my pnone number into your mobile so you can give us a buzz if you want to do that. I mean you will have to know how to find us amongst the madding crowds!

    4. DK,

      I’ve never been to Spa before so can’t say for sure. But after many years going to the British GP would say that by 10am it will be pretty full and all the best places are likely to be gone. You will get somewhere for sure, but maybe not what you want.

      I would try to get there earlier if you can, or if you are late and the best spots are gone you could consider upgrading to a seat. Yes more expensive but if I were coming from the US I would hate to make that efforrt and not see much.

      Whatever you do good luck.

    5. Definately do not take Kev’s advice on the section between Liege and Pouhon. Its absolutely rammed by that time.

      1. Sorry, that sounds quite personal (unintended). Go for Kemmel sraight though, sounds like a good bunch of people off this forum are heading there. Have a great race!

        1. Carol can I take you up on that offer? You can email me you’re number and any other words of wisdom. DK7903429@yahoo.com I apologize for all the numbers, its a bit old. Mick is right, but at the same time I guess I would be happy with anything. Seem to have shot myself in the foot with this one, but ah well lessons learned for next season.

          One more question, I’m taking the bus, where does it drop you off in relation to the track? Like is right at the entrance or do I have to walk?

          I really appreciate the help, and the hospitality.

          1. DK
            just sent you a mail.
            Cheers
            c

  269. Just a quick update to my earlier post. We ended up cancelling the hotel that was approx 1-2 hours from the track and booked camping at the Elephant for Saturday and Sunday nights. All we need to do now is buy camping gear, a minor detail. See you all there. Carol, will call you when we arrive at the track (Saturday lunchtime hopefully).
    Dave

    1. Great to hear Dave and look forward to meeting you guys. Michael did tell me that you were sorted.Hope you make it latest for qualifying at 2pm!

  270. Hey all,

    Final preparations underway.. I have a flag to take out but wonder how I’m gonna find a flagpole out there. I may try to blag / buy one off the merchandise stalls but the pole it came with last year was basically just a broom-stick so my question is this..

    Does anyone know how to say “I’m looking for a broom-stick” in French?

    Seems that Malmedy, where I’m staying, is a French speaking municipality and a sizeable town.. somewhere must sell brushes.

    1. Hi Rob,

      A couple of bamboo canes taped together will do the trick and they are only a couple of £ from your local garden centre.

    2. I use one of those extendable poles used for painting, obviously without the roller attached :-)

    3. Rob
      if youn want a plain broomstick i have one to spare4 you can gladly have…no probs just let me know so i can put it in the van for you.
      We just got our flags sorted and Michael (God bless) has done my banner for me so we are looking good.In fact our hallway is now stacked with stuff so hpefully the packing will go OK Tuesday……

      1. Carol you are a star, that’d be much appreciated. I’ll either phone you or see you in Cafe Bertrand on Friday.

        1. Rob
          broomstick is packed- also drawing pins and string if you need….
          Cya there.
          C

    4. iv a 6 meter fishin pole.folds down to 1 meter..just a cheep 1.think it was 12 euro here in ireland.you getthem cheeper to..iv mine up now in the garden doing wind tests.have 2 flags on it think il add 1 more on……try a fishing shop

  271. Is any one on the 5:55 am P&O ferry from Dover Thursday Morning?

    1. Martyn & Rhian
      22nd August 2010, 21:39

      Hi Mick we’ll be on that ferry travelling on to the elephant

      1. Maybe could meet for breakfeast. We’re not staying at Elephant (booked into green zone at Les Conbes) as had booked and paid before finding this site. But sounds like a good bunch wil be there, so was planning to try to get to Cafe Fri night for a drink and meet up. So would have been good to know a face or two before we got there.

        1. Similar with us.. we are in the Green Zone (arriving about 5pm Thursday).. did not know of this site before booking.. doh!

          On the 11am Eurostar from London though.

  272. when i was at silverstone last year we sat in a grandstand quite far back, this was my first GP and i had the earphones in to begin with but then they just annoyed me so i chucked them, i was fine without them just abit deaf after! and when i was trying to sleep in the evening i could still hear the cars!! going to invest in a better pair this year as we want to be as close as we can to the cars but as i say they are not mandatory :)

  273. if you see a couple of 16 year old nico rosberg fans thats us!!

  274. We hope to hook up with the Elephant camping crowd over the weekend as well (we’re at the Elephant B&B). We’ll have chairs too so we could spread out our chairs enough to make room for DK. Just bring beer! :o)

    1. Great Connie!
      Think we can sort beer out…..just bought a truckload of the stuff today! Lol

      1. We’ll probably stock up in Spa or somewhere close after we get the tent pitched. That way we can get more tinnies in the boot!

  275. Uff … update.

    Prepaid SIM is arranged. Who need one? Pls email me.

    cu
    Michael

  276. anyone going by ferry on the thursday morning. we are on the 4.40 am from dover with a mini bus, boys weekend

    1. Were on the 4am ish Sea france sailing. May see you around dover somewhere.

    2. we are using the tunnel about 5 to 5:30 am on Thursday. Will look out for you on the road.

  277. I am heading to Spa for my 1st F1 experience next weekend. I have heard that on the Thursday there is a free afternoon pitwalk between 3.30pm-5.30pm and drivers’ autograph signing is offered for weekend ticket holders.

    Can anyone confirm this?

    1. Hi Richard,

      Pitwalk will be Thursday 4:30 to 6:00 pm for weekend ticket holders.

      cu
      Michael

  278. Rolf just reminded me we are actually travelling in a camper and not a truck (think he’s worried the beer won’t fit in…….little does he know my packing skills)……..am so excited now!
    Everyone do have a safe trip- weather looks like it won’t drown us this year so we should be in for a magic weekend!

  279. Carol-
    We are not bring chairs from the USA – our connection in New York is too short for juggling checked baggage. The plan is to stop at a store on our way from Frankfurt but if we don’t see a store, we would love to take you up on your offer of chairs. Thank you. We can’t wait to meet you and all the people on this blog. We’ve never attended an F1 race off the North American continent and we’ve read this is the best. We’re looking forward to a crazy, fun weekend.
    Connie

    1. Connie
      we are going to be close to Carol, got a few spare chairs with us aswell
      Cheers, Darren

    2. Connie
      absolutely no probs- also as Darren said we are all close together so chairs we have!
      You have yourselves a safe trip and catch up with us when you arrive!

    3. tztztz Connie,

      do you thin I will not help you with 2 chairs?
      Don’t worry – don’t buy.

      cu
      Michael

  280. Anybody on the 8:15 SeaFrance ferry on Thursday?

    Getting very excited now!!

  281. Michelle from Newcastle
    22nd August 2010, 21:37

    Car is packed, we’re leaving tomorrow….looking forward to meeting everyone :D see you all soon!

    1. Have a safe trip Michelle!
      CYA there!
      C

    2. Claire & Rob Neal
      23rd August 2010, 8:08

      Have a safe trip Michelle and we will see you at the Elephant :) x

  282. Everybody who use the Eurotunnel:

    E15/A26/Calais/Lille/Reims/Paris/Bruxelles
    >> A16

    Also in Belguim can be some mobile radars!

    Take care: km 36,4 is a RADAR – you don’t need this pix – to expensive!

    Have all a safe trip.

    cu
    Michael

  283. We’re bringing a cool box filled with some haggis! Fine to run off the car during the journey however, as we’ve not got an electric hook up pitch, any chance we could plug the box into someone who has hook up……?

    1. Steven
      you can plug it into ours- do you have an european adapter? We’d have a prob with your UK three pin plugs!

      1. What a star you are Carol! Yes, I’ll bring along an adaptor and maybe a bottle of wine for you! Do you prefer red or white? Also, how will we find you?

        1. Anthony Ferrari
          23rd August 2010, 9:34

          Carol should be easy to find.
          1) Look for the FOFA Flag: http://www.fofassociation.com/
          2) Listen for the loudest German on the campsite – that’ll be Rolf, Carol’s husband.
          3) Follow the smell of coffee
          4) Ask anyone!

          1. lol, thanks Anthony. See you guys Thursday!

            Carol, we’ll make you first port of call when we arrive. Let me know your wine preference thanks!

        2. Haha Steven
          looks like our pal Kimi already told you everything- we are easy to find as sort of belong to the inventory on the site……
          Wine? White but please don’t bother- the stuff is expensive your neck of the woods!Just dying for a bite of your haggis!
          Rolf does the wake up with his F1 sounds……..smallish camper with the most stuff around it!
          Cya all there- am getting over excited now…..

  284. There must be someone out there going from Newacatle to Amsterdam on the overnight ferry Thursday, myself and my brother are looking forward to our mini-cruise and weekend at The Elephant. Would rather meet up with genuine F1 fans than stag/hen nutters. “Got to get the flag thing sorted David, a cheap roach pole sounds like what we need. Fishing tackle shop on Redcar High Street, first port of call….
    Looking forward to meeting all the F1 nuts from this site, been checking it out for a while now. Thanks for all the info, see you in the Cafe Friday evening……Jason

  285. Ohh, and David……Sorry kidda, is there such thing as a North Yorkshire flag or should we just go with the white rose ?

    1. Anthony Ferrari
      23rd August 2010, 7:58

      I don’t think there is a North Yorkshire flag. I’ve just ordered this Yorkshire flag: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=300336682276&ssPageName=ADME:B:EOIBSA:GB:1123
      My thinking is that it will show my support for the Yorkshire-based Virgin team and show where I’m from. I’ll also have my Ferrari flag flying.

      1. Anthony
        you will be pleased to note I also have a red flag this year (gave the old Renault one away to a nice Russian Vitaly fan…….)
        As we’re from Dresden we’ll also be flying an old East German flag……..(just to wind Michael up a bit you understand!) Lol

        1. Hi all,

          today Carol and some others arrived well at The Elephant F1 Camping ….

          cu
          Michael

  286. Hey
    I’m trying to figure out the finer details of how to get to Elephant campsite on Thursday. We should get into Verviers around 13.25. Oatsey kindly posted bus times on a previous page, and from that it looks like we’ll have to wait until 14.40 for the bus to Francorchamp. Is that right? Will there be any extra buses on because of the F1? Is there an alternative (eg a bus to Spa and then another bus from Spa to Francorchamp?
    How do we know what bus stop to get off at? Is it fairly obvious?
    Almost counting down the hours now!

    1. Hi Sara,

      there will be an other way. U call my mobil when u arrived Verviers Central Station and I send a shuttle.

      (bus no 294 ou 395) to Francorchamps.
      DONT GO TO SPA – it will be a long way ;-)

      cu
      Michael

      1. Thank you Michael, that’s amazing!

        Hope everyone has a good trip across!

  287. Michael ,

    Can you please check your emails ,have sent you an email twice with a question regarding the parking & had no reply .

    Thanks

    Scott

    1. Hi Scott,

      I check my mails permanently.
      Sorry, nothing from you.
      Pls do it again.

      cu
      Michael

      1. Hi Michael ,

        Maybe was the wrong one ,i have resent to another address from the elephant website .

        Thanks

  288. Hi All,

    I have been reading this thread for the last few months and am so looking forward to the GP as will be my first non British GP. I am travelling from Brussels every day with a friend and I know what train to get to verviers and then to get a bus from there. But where is the best place to get off the bus every day, and does it go the track or do you have to walk a while. Also after the race do the buses still run and where is the best place to go? Sorry for all the questions but like to be prepared and I am planning to join you all on eau rouge after the race to join in the beer drinking hopefully can find some Hoegaarden to drink!!

    Thanks
    David

  289. jasey baby, you get the white rose flag i’ll get the pole, sound fare,, looking forward to this, though not shure how to keep the beer cool in a tent! must be a few F1 fans on the Newcastle ferry thursday?

  290. Ill be in with the posh crowd in gold 1 ( Thankyou Shell UK ) wearing my Michael who-macher t-shirt showing a photoshopped pic of shumi in an oap style wheelchair, with a merc front wing, being pushed along by Ross Brawn. You gotta see it guys, its funny!!!

    1. Benjo, LOL nice one with the T-Shirt :-D I’ll keep an eye out for it and if I see you I’ll buy you a beer :-D

  291. Hi Michael,

    I will send you an email too, but can you pick me up from Verviers or help me onwards from tehre?

    I have a train from Brussels to Verviers which arrives In Verviers at 12:25pm (just after Midday)

    Hope this is OK, will be very much appreciated!!

    Most of you will probably be on your way, I leave now in less than 24 hours.. very excited to meet the crazy bunch!!!!! Safe trip all!!

    Kingsley

    1. Claire & Rob Neal
      24th August 2010, 8:28

      Have a safe trip Kingsley, see you when we get there, we set of tomorrow afternoon and will arrive about thurs lunchtime.

      Claire
      p.s Was it you that was asking about cider? Im bringing some :D x

      1. Thanks Claire, you have a safe trip too!!

        Yes it was thank you! Carol has sorted me out with Darren to bring some over, but thanks all the same!!

        god i love everyone on here haha :D

        x

        1. strongbow ready & loaded !!

  292. Hi all,

    4 of us coming across to dunkirk on the 18:00 hrs ferry from dover on wednesday night then staying over in dunkirk and heading straight to The Elephant on thurs morning. hope to be there about 11 am. very excited and looking forward to meeting everyone.

    Is anyone else going across on the ferry wed night to meet up with and have a chat?

    Steve

  293. Everyone have a safe trip over- looking forward to a great weekend!
    Cheers
    C

  294. hi
    its going to be my 1st time to any F1 race.
    we have quali and race tickets , but they are just to get into the circuit.
    anyone got any tips on where to go ??

  295. Doug – with GA tickets Pouhon is a good spot. Also, along the Kemmel straight is another good spot.

  296. so my tickets let me into the circuit and i can basically go where-ever i want to ( within limits ).
    i have never been to a race before and wish i found the forum sooner !! anyone got any tips for me ?? watching quali and race, staying in a holiday inn in michelin ( spelt wrong )

    1. Hi Doug

      I’ve not been to Spa before (but I’m going this year) so I don’t have first hand experience, but if you go back 2 or 3 pages on this thread there is some very useful advice for people with General Admission tickets.

      In addition to WHERE to go, it’s important to understand WHEN to go. The popular GA spots will be taken very very early on raceday morning….!

      Good Luck!

  297. Hi all, just letting you know there will be 3 Aussies joining in the festivities at the elephant for the weekend! Be good to have a beer with you all, and thanks for all the info on here

    Cheers

    1. Anthony Ferrari
      24th August 2010, 16:35

      Great! Bring a flag!

    2. Great Judd
      look forward to meeting you all as well…..wow we really do have peeps from all over this year!

  298. We’re heading for the airport in a little bit. We’ll be arriving in Frankfurt in the late morning and driving to the campground before we head to the B&B. If anyone is around on Wednesday afternoon/evening, send an email to cjsoko@gmail.com. I’ll try to find some wi-fi so I can check email. I am turning off roaming and cellular data on my Iphone so I don’t get hit with exorbitant charges upon my return home. I have Carol’s number…and of course Michael’s. We can’t wait to meet all of you and experience this race.

    1. Hey Connie, safe journey and hope to bump into you all in the campsite. We will arrive Thursday morning after a drive from Edinburgh. I’m sure we’ll be at the pit walk Thursday afternoon and in the pub Thursday evening! Don’t know if you like haggis however I’ll be cooking some up at some point so if you fancy a taste just shout!

    2. Connie
      we hope to arrive around 5pm depending on traffic………be great to meet up and get to know you!
      Cheers
      C

    3. Ps- sorray forgot to say- we are quite a few who will be there Weds already and on for a test run at the pub to have a relaxing beer after our journies and get to know each other!

  299. Michael,

    Is there a local taxi company?

    Sounds like a good crowd at the Elephant and would like to come to Ster and have a few drinks at the cafe one night. However seems to be a long walk from Les Combes.

    If there is can you let me know the number so I can ring to book.

    Thanks,

    1. Mick
      depending on timing if you come straight from the track its not far- other wise buzz Michael- I am sure he can sort taxi service for you.
      Can you make it Friday?
      Either plug in my number +49 173 422 7492 or people can mail me on
      carol.treurnicht@plasticlogic.com (I get those mails but can’t get my personal ones after tonight!)

      1. Thanks Carol really helpful.

        Will be arriving Thursday mid-day ish so Fri night is definatley good. If they do food at the cafe may even walk up Thur night after the pit walk? Can’t be bothered cooking after driving all day, and setting up the tent.

        Maybe if we walk up from the track Michael could help us get a taxi back, to Les Combes after a few beers?

        1. Mick
          do that- buzz one of us as we’ll all be at the pitwalk too so maybe we will all walk alongside each other! Join us for a bite of grilled something if you want and wander to the pub. Sure we can sort transport with Michael (or we lock him in the cowshed!)

          1. That sounds good. Will call you when going to the pit walk.

            Have a safe trip and look forward to meeting everyone.

  300. Hi All,

    I was looking for some advice if someone knows if there will there be any shuttles from Verviers on race day and if I am eligible as I have the weekend ticket?

    Thanks Again
    David

  301. Hi all,

    okay, had a mad moment this morning and booked Eurotunnel to France with the intention of driving down for the race!

    Current plan is driving down first thing saturday, do some sightseeing on the way (Bruges maybe) then turn up late afternoon Saturday.

    I have several important questions which I’ve been unable to get clear answers on from reading through these pages. Would really appreciate help from regulars:

    1/ Am I best to buy GA tickets when I arrive on Saturday? What time do they stop selling on the saturday? What time do the start selling on sunday?

    2/ Parking / camping: About to email Michael – any idea if there is space at Elephant on Saturday night only? can I get to the camp without special access badges (read something about that on the thread somewhere)

    3/ Shuttle: What time does the shuttle go on sunday morning? Or is it best to walk? How long/far is the walk? I assume also walk back after the race as the roads are closed?

    4/ Where do you regulars usually watch from? Where is Elephant camping nearest in terms of good watching spots for GA?

    5/ We aren’t booked on the tunnel til late night, anything cool to do immediately after the race? Do people walk onto the track for the podium celebration etc?

    6/ What are the 5 most important tips/things to take into the circuit for the raceday?

    THANK YOU!!!! And hope to see some of you on Sat/Sun.

    Ed

    1. Hi Ed, I’ve had a couple of those moments too, after watching qualifying on TV I’ve jumped into the car and driven to Spa without any tickets or much planning.

      As for your questions;

      1/Don’t know what time they stop selling, but I have bought tickets from touts at the last mintute and got a very good price for a Silver grandstand.

      2/I booked for the Elephant only a few days ago, check the website, send the form and you’ll get an answer by tomorrow afternoon I’m sure. Pass, Michael will email you one to print out, but am sure you can drive the long way round with out on.

      3/It is approx 900m from Elephant to Eau rouge, downhill :-)

      4/Seems that most Elephanters are going towards Kemmel/Les Combes, some speak of Pouhon. It is some distance but these are the best spots from what seem to be the best campsite.

      5/Podium celebration, Spa is a long track so no cool down lap, after the cars cross the line they immediately park up after Turn 1. Even when viewing from the Gold 1 grandstand on the pit straight it was a rush to sprint round to the podium to view it in time.

      After the race I like to hang around the pit lane and watch the teams packing away, scrutineering taking place, can/could also get down into the car park and catch some autographs. Alternatively you could always meet some of the stalwart Elphanters at a beer stall at Eau Rouge.

      6/ Race day top tips;

      -Get in early if you have GA tickets
      -Expect rain at some point
      -Pick a spot with a TV screen or hire a Kangaroo TV for 50 euro
      -Take food/drink so you don’t have to leave your spot
      -Radio/headphones, commentary is multi-lingual

  302. Michelle from Newcastle
    24th August 2010, 23:37

    Had a nice day out at Brooklands, and nipped into Mercedes Benz world for a wee while – nice start for getting in the mood for the race – Channel Tunnel and through to Calais tomorrow then on to Elephant on Thursday….hope it’s fine for getting the darn tent up!!!

  303. 3hrs from Spa-Francorchamps!

    enjoy the race all!!!

    maybe see a few of you there!

  304. Hey guys,

    I’m thinking about going to Spa, but just on friday. Do you know if it’s possible to get tickets just for the friday sessions? I dont want to spent too much, so tickets for the bronze zones would be just fine. Is there a ticket sale on friday somewhere?

    1. Hi Wolf, it just so happens that I’ve got 2 spare tickets for Friday, Gold 8 grandstand at turn 1, but because I’m not arriving until Saturday morning I won’t need them and I did want to sell them on ebay but ran out of time. Not sure where you are but I’m in Germany if that helps at all.

      1. Hi Kev, appreciate for the offer, but I guess I wont be able to pick up the tickets in time. Maybe next year I should give it a bit more time in the run-up ;-)

  305. Kev – many thanks!

    Have completed and sent a form for elephant.

    A couple more unresolved questions for anyone who can help:

    1/ what time does the circuit stop selling tickets on Saturday afternoon and what time does it start on Sunday morning?

    2/ what is the name of the street that elephant camping is on for my GPS? I saw a zoomed in map of the area on one of these threads but now cannot find it?

    3/ finally my girlfriend is quite short and am worried about her staring at the back of people’s heads. from TV coverage in the past I have seen quite steep areas up in the woods where it’s pretty much impossible for anybody to be in front of your view. is that the case? Any specific recommendations along those lines?

    thanks
    ed

    1. Ed, don’t know what time they stop selling tickets, give one of the official websites an email, you should get an answer back within 24 hrs.

      The name of the street I think is Route du Moulin, but if you’ve booked then you should get an email back from Michael with a very good simple guide and photographs to the campsite.

      I think the area you are on about is the run down to Pouhon, but generally anywhere else you want to go then get in early to secure a freeview spot.

  306. Sooooo excited! Leaving in just under 11 hours – getting the 5.55am P&O from Dover and then on to The Elephant!

    Looking forward to meeting all of you on here – been lurking since I first decided to go to the GP, and it’s been an invaluable source of information.

    Apparently JH & MB from the BBC will be travelling via ferry from Dover on Thursday morning in MB’s E-Type, so something else to look out for on the way.

    We’ll be the tent with three kids (10,11 & 14), me & the missus. I’ll be the tired looking one ;)

    Will be at the pub on Friday night (if they let kids in) – see y’all then!

  307. Michael ,

    Sent another email to the contact email @ the elephant .

  308. Well that’s it then, 7:20pm and the cars packed. Just time for a few hours kip and then off at 2:30am. 5:55am P&O Dover to Calais ferry and hopefully Campsite for 12:00pm ish.

    Weather looks s*** for the weekend but who care’s. Can’t wait.

  309. Michelle from Newcastle
    25th August 2010, 21:30

    In Calais tonight and it’s chucking it down!!!! Got soaked to the skin this afternoon!!! Hoping for a brighter day tomorrow – safe trip all

  310. Michelle from Newcastle
    25th August 2010, 21:30

    In Calais tonight and it’s chucking it down!!!! Got soaked to the skin this afternoon!!! Hoping for a brighter day tomorrow – safe trip all

  311. Car all loaded and ready to go. Leave for Dover at 5:00 am and hope to get to The Elephant by 1:30’ish.

    Weather looks dire but who cares!

    See ya’ll tomorrow. :-)

  312. can anyone give me michaels phone number i emailed him but no reply yet and am away in 4 hours

    thank you

    1. Michelle from Newcastle
      25th August 2010, 22:48

      Carols number is above it’s +49 173 422 7492 if anyone has his number I think she will, I’ll scroll through the thread and see if I can find michaels for you

      1. if im ringing from ireland what code do i use.
        thank you michelle

  313. Well, I guess theres only me and my brother David on the ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam, Thursday, overnight crossing. Leaving Redcar 14:00hrs see you all Friday afternoon for quali2 hopefully. You can count on one thing we wil be in the cafe later that night. Look out for the silver Z4 with dodgy leftover England flags from our wonderfull World Cup campaign……..Hameau De Ster….or bust, here we come……..Remember the film

  314. Hi all,

    today Carol and some others arrived well at The Elephant F1 Camping ….

    cu
    Michael

  315. Hi all,

    today Carol and some others arrived well at The Elephant F1 Camping ….

    But – PLEASE stop raining – bring sunshine.
    cu
    Michael

  316. Guess we all had a great time despite the weather! Roll on 2011- new thread please Keith!

  317. Oh to have been in a camper van, not a tent, especially on the Sunday night. That was a bit wild!!

    Otherwise thoroughly enjoyed my first Grand Prix experience. Got the right result too! Well done Lewis.

    1. I agree with Dave about Sunday night – thought we were going to end up in the adjacent field at around 3am!

      Let’s not forget the bolt of lightning as well; hands up all those who nearly poo’d themselves…

      1. Trousers were brown after that. Looked like it hit the pylon very close to our van.

        Sunday I had wind inside the tent and outside. Damn that stag chilli

      2. Claire & Rob Neal
        4th September 2010, 12:15

        *raises hand* I was just outside the toilets when it struck, my heart was in my throat. Rob was in the loo and all the lights buzzed and went out. Sunday night was wet n windy and we had a wake up call @ 6am in the way the germans next to us, their gazebo turned upside down on top of our tent. Rob rushed out side to see one of the germans shivering, looking skywards saying “Scheisse, scheisse”! Rob didnt know whether to get dressed and help or grab the camera lol After laughing his head off he got dressed and helped them get sorted. Loved every second of the long weekend, met some great people and are planning on meeting up with a few of them at Silverstone next year. Who else is planning on doing the British GP???

        Claire xxxx

  318. lighting jack lol oh the bang of it was so loud the ground shook.i was very sick when i got home flu, chest infection, but it was fun..Carol didn get to meet you i think ha it was me who texted you on thursday morring looking for michael number yous have been ringing me since but was in the hospital and didn answer but home now..dont think il tent it again so have been lookin at caravans for next year.hi to everyone

  319. Yes a GP of extreme weather conditions, and one not to be forgot in a hurry. We met some great people and had a good laugh, especailly Sunday night in the cafe, a good time had by all. Sorry Rob had to go to bed early!! Next time guy’s book a later crossing!

    Will definatley be going to Silverstone 2011. Have been really busy since getting back but will get all the info out about the tickets, camping etc to those who wanted it early next week. Look forward to seeing you all there. Should be a laugh.

    1. Claire & Rob Neal
      4th September 2010, 14:45

      Mick if i hadn’t dragged Rob away he would of had a heart attack through laughing so much! lol and we will defo book a later crossing next time :) x

      1. I can’t believe it took Bev & I 4 days to figure out that there was a nice warm bar nearby to escape our 2-man tent! Saying that, it kept us warm, dry and out of the wind which is more than can be said for some of the other campers!

        We had a really good time and we’re DEFINITELY doing Silverstone next year so hope to see you all there :)

        1. Claire & Rob Neal
          8th September 2010, 14:55

          Whoop Whoop, us too, we’ve just booked so, see you there! x

    2. Look forward to that Mick!

  320. I’d forgotten about the lightning (how could I!!). Definitely a change of underpants moment!

    Think we might go to Silverstone next year. Might try camping again. So might see you all there.

    1. Dave & others…You think the lightning was a ‘change of underpants moment’?

      How do you think me & my mate felt as we were hit by it! Our tent & motorbikes were closest to the pylon that got hit & we found ourselves thrown to the ground & rolling in pain when it hit.

      Thanks to those nearby (of all nationalities) who came to check we were ok. Michael didn’t know about it until the next day but when he did he insisted that we went to see a doctor with him. As it had been some time since the strike we were advised to ‘take it easy & not drink too much beer’. WHAT!!! We had a (brief!) visit to the cafe for egg & bacon and just a drop of beer. ;)

      My Mate’s mobile phone was plugged into the charger on my motorbike at the time & both the phone & charger got fried, as did my bike’s alarm remote keyfob. Luckily the bike still seemed OK afterwards.

      Could have been a lot worse as just 30mins before the strike we were planning on sitting on the pylon’s concrete base with a tarp over our heads to shelter from the rain. Luckily we decided against it.

      So far there seem to be no lasting affects of the strike. We’re both fairly fit so our tickers just got a bit of an un-planned rush. Has been quite a talking point since it hit, but not something we wish to experience again in a hurry. We still made it to the Friday pm practice session & managed to walk the outside of the whole circuit. Such fabulous scenery.

      So, very eventful & horid weather (for biking) but a great event & result.

      Cheers,

      Bloggs.

      1. Bloggs
        remember you telling us about the lightning strike- at least your hair did not end up like Michale’s lol!
        Great meeting you all- great weekend- roll on 2011 and the double- Silverstone and Spa! Can’t wait!

      2. The Sunday night weather was extreme – I slept through a lot of it, but at one point in the middle of the night I did hear a shout of terror coming from a couple of guys… I wonder if that was you guys when the lightening struck??? I thought maybe someone’s tent was just being a bit flimsy (and then I went back to sleep – sorry for not rushing to your aid!! Oops!)

        1. Claire & Rob Neal
          5th September 2010, 7:37

          Lou, the lightning struck on the friday morn so wouldnt have been that, but the wind was that strong on sunday night it may have been a tent or 2 flying past…
          Claire x

      3. We were camping in the same field as the pylon, but directly across from it. We saw you guys had moved pithes and assumed it was the german techno from the motorhome on the corner that had driven you away!

        Damn scary experience (but now a very cool story).

      4. We were camped in the same field as the pylon but camped directly opposite from it. We saw you moved pitches, but assumed that it was the German techno from the motor homes in the corner that had driven you away.

        Sounds like a scary experience (but now a very cool story)….

  321. In fact- have been to Spa every year since 2005 and can honestly say this year was the worst weather i have ever experienced there!
    Well done to all of you for surviving and having a great time to boot!

  322. Michelle from Newcastle
    5th September 2010, 20:58

    What a weekend it was!! Biggest surprise was that rob (of Claire and rob) used to work with my other half 15 years ago, how spooky is that?

    Can’t believe we were packed up and ready to go around 7.30am hehe and only an hour away from the track we didn’t see any more rain at all!!

    Thanks Michael & co for keeping things going all weekend. Great job

    And if I hear dunsch dunsch dunsch dunsch vrooooom scumacher again at 2am……..

    ….hehe I’ll smile and think of a great weekend!!

  323. Well, we had a great weekend even though we only just arrived in time to make qualifying on Saturday. On Sunday we watched the race at Pouhon corner with people from the camping field across the road. A great experience.

    However, the weekend has been really tarnished by our experience with Elephant camping. When I booked I originally asked for for just Saturday night but quickly decided we might stay Sunday, so I emailed Michael to ask if this was OK and could he send me a revised bill. He did not reply so being nervous about missing our booking as we booked very late I overpaid by €52 and explained via email and Paypal comments that it was for Sunday evening in case we decided to stay. On the way there we decided that we would actually rather not stay Sunday due to the weather and my wife already missing the kids (our first ever overnight away from them – they are aged 3 and 1 years old). On arrival we saw Michael and he told me to come to the office tent during Saturday evening to sort out a refund of the overpayment. I went to the tent a few times during early evening but each time Michael was absent and the guys in the tent said try later. We were a bit boring and went to bed early as we were getting up very early so I decided we would sort it out on departure. After the race on Sunday we hiked back to the campsite as quickly as we could and packed up in the rain. We wanted to get away asap because of traffic, we had a long drive back to Paris and my wife wanted to get back to the kids. So after our efforts to get back and packed up quickly, my wife was waiting in the car when I went to the office tent to collect the deposit and refund. There were 3 guys already waiting for deposits and all the staff were busy somewhere. A couple of others arrived too. One of them was a very loud German guy who saw Dominique across the campsite and shouted to him to hurry up as a few were waiting. He shrugged apologetically and said he was already busy with someone. I waited a few more minutes and then decided, sod it, every minute is precious and Michael seems to be a good guy so I’ll email him afterwards to sort this out. So on return I emailed him to explain all this and to ask him if he could perhaps repay the deposit and overpayment, €72, via a Paypal refund. A week went by with no response so I politely reminded him that I was waiting. His response was to ask me if I was sure about what I had written. My response was yes, 100%, since its exactly what happened. He then responded quite aggressively telling me to stop accusing his staff of being liars, that Dominique had repaid me the €52 and had marked this in the records, that my story about waiting around for the deposit on departure could not be true as he does not run his business like that and further he could not believe that I would rather leave to join a traffic jam than collect my deposit.
    Fantastic. So Michael who everyone seems to worship has €72 of my money, has called me a liar (I’m still in a state of shock over that one) and believes I am trying to cheat money out of him. How would you feel in my shoes? A little bit annoyed perhaps?? Seems to be nothing I can do except never return to his campsite and recommend that people are more careful and less trusting than I was with money matters with Michael and Dominique. And sorry for the negative post.
    Dave

    1. Well there is obviously a mix up here somewhere which is unfortunate. It is none of my business but am sure it can be sorted- we all know what the weather was like and how chaotic and busy people were. This is not the sort of story we want to hear about, mistakes do happen and I just hope you guys and Michael get sorted.
      C

      1. Carol. Apologies for posting a negative story. Its a shame and given the positive comments about Michael I was as shocked as anyone. But it happened exactly as I have written so I feel I should warn people to tread carefully. I’d love to get my money back but frustratingly I cannot see it happening as Michael has decided that I am trying to cheat him and refused to accept that my version of events can be possible.

        1. I feel I should agree with Dave & Sonia about this, although Michael seemed like a nice guy people should be careful about relying purely on recommendations on the internet.

          Personally I thought the 20 euro deposit was a bit suspect. It seemed pre-calculated that most people wouldn’t return to claim their deposit and even if they did the balls ache to prove you had taken your rubbish with you whilst wanting to get going would result in most people deciding to forfeit the deposit in favour of a speedy exit to beat the traffic.

          But this I’m afraid is nothing to what I heard from one visiter to the Elephant, he was travelling alone from Italy and had made a reservation a week before, however despite numerous emails he had heard nothing back from Michael. Taking the recommendations of the Elephant from this forum on face value, he drove up on the Friday night only to be initially told that there were no emails or reservation for him. It was only when Michael realised that this traveller in a car with Italian number plates was in fact British and not Italian that he then said “To be honest I did get your emails but I was just going to tell you that we were full” and Michael allowed him to pay for a plot for 2 days. If what this person told me was true, then I find this behaviour of exclusion on grounds of nationality pretty damn disgusting, even more so because of the good reviews Michael had from this forum. No doubt some may say that this is not a true representation of the Elephant, but when it was told to me it was pretty convincing and I see no reason why he would make it up.

          On the upside however Michael did give this person a 50% discount after being convinced that he was only using a small tent next to his car, perhaps it was just fortunate that he wasn’t Italian eh!

          Would I go to The Elephant again? Well the toilets were clean and facilities ok, shuttle bus worked well and the site is in a nice relative peaceful position with a warm pub within staggering distance, so yes I probbaly would stay at the Elephant again but that decision perhaps isn’t mine, and I might even leave my rubbish neatly packed away in a bag to be collected :-)

          1. If there is one recurring comment it is that Michael doesn’t reply to emails. When I was booking I never got any replies until I put a comment on this forum and it seems that many others have experienced the same. Michael’s response is always that he never received the email.

    2. I feel I should post an update. I’ve exchanged quite a few emails with Carol and Michael over this and the final outcome is:

      – Michael was in a difficult position as a trusted staff member thought he had paid me the refund so he was caught between a customer’s word and that of a staff member. In the end he did the right thing and paid me the refund.
      – Carol is helping Michael to improve his processes and generally make improvements so that the business can better cope with demand now that it has become such a popular venue. I believe Carol is the right person to make this happen so everyone should benefit next year from a sharper operation.

      So all has ended well and both Michael and myself owe a debt of gratitude to the wonderful Carol.

      Best wishes
      Dave

  324. Its taken a while to get round to writing this, but thought I’d add our reflections of the weekend.

    We had an awesome time – we were sat in the gold 8 grandstand which was fantastic, and had the added bonus that we could run onto the track in time for the podium which was great. We were also lucky enough to know someone working for FOM which meant we spent quite a bit of time exploring exciting places! Rain just added to the weekend atmosphere with most people in our grandstand cheering whenever the rain started!

    We’ve stayed at the elephant a couple of times now, and although we had a great time again this year, do feel a little bit that it has become a victim of its own success. We went in the first place because it was a small friendly campsite, but this year it seemed much busier, with all the vans much more tightly packed in and with more big groups, which took away from the ‘intimate’ atmosphere. We didn’t meet as many people as previously, but this was probably as due to the rain most of those camped around us retreated to their tents early – there was less of the chat outside with a beer or two that we’ve had previously.

    With the extra numbers though it seemed a bit disorganised – people were allowed to pitch their tents anywhere in the second field – when we came previously you were directed to a specific spot, and there were no clear ‘roadways’ marked, which meant more of the field than necessary got churned up early as people drove around trying to decide where to pitch their tents. The haphazard nature of pitching also meant our car got pretty much boxed in for 4 days! We’ve camped in the smaller temporary campsites at silverstone (including in very wet weather), and there are always clearly defined roadways, and pitches, which does avoid both these issues.

    That said, there are still lots of positives – the campsite is handy – we choose to walk via Francorchamps to the entrance at la source which is a pretty walk, plus the guys did a great job keeping the toilets clean despite the mud! We’ll definately think about staying again when we come back next year…….

    I would be interested to hear comments from people who have stayed in some of the other campsites (either local, or a bit further a field) – walking to the track we saw a real mix of sites, and quite a few of the others looked nice too!

    Catherine

    1. Hi Catherine
      great to hear your thoughts. I was also amazed at how busy the place was from Wednesday already and somewhat packed even Thursday………..never experienced that before and was also a bit disappointed it was not a small and close knit as in the past. I also think Michael and his team were fully rushed off their feet all the time so maybe we need to rethink a bit for next year.
      I also missed the walkabouts and beers outside this year as the weather was pretty horrific………hope its better next year (worse it cannot get surely!)
      Glad to hear you had a great time like we all did.
      We just need to sort Dave’s problem now so we have no longlasting bad feeling there.
      Cheers
      C

      1. Carol, yes I too think the weather dampened the spirits and thirst for a walkabout. In addition to what I said in my previous post, I did notice that Michael and his crew were very busy running the site and their hard work was clear to see, infact throughout the weekend I did wonder if Michael got any sleep at all.

      2. Hi Carol

        Also thought it worth saying thanks to the farmer with the tractor (don’t know his name) who had to spend his whole weekend rescuing cars and vans from the mud! He did a great job!

        Catherine

  325. Why on earth didn’t they build Gold 3 just 3 or 4 feet higher at the back??? Apart from the first two rows and the lucky guys on the very back row (who could stand up without offending anyone) we couldn’t see the cars after they entered the dip at Eau Rouge!! The best view was standing at the fence just to the right of the stan, which rather defeats the object of chosing a covered stand!!!

    1. Hi Gareth
      Yep, I agree there although I was one of the fortunate few on the back row, so I spent nearly the whole race stood up.

      If you weren’t in the front/back rows I imagine it would have been a big let-down.

      The one negative to being in the back row is that the screen was sooooo far away we couldn’t read it at all. We ended up having to get a Kangaroo TV (which was awesome) but an unplanned expense.

      I don’t think I’d sit in Gold3 again. I’d probably try someone down near La Source…

    2. Hi Gareth – I noticed in an earlier post you were asking about getting into other GA/bronze areas with your grandstand ticket. Were you able to do so? Just starting to think about next year and I don’t want to book an expensive grandstand ticket if I’m restricted to that location all weekend!

      1. Hello Richard,

        Yes, the Gold 3 tickets we had allow you to enter GA areas. We didn’t do it, in the end, because of the dreadful weather and the amount of time it takes to get to Pouhon, For example (we were told an hour’s walk from the circuit entrance). The uncovered stand near G£ has just about the same view as G£ and is cheaper BUT without really good weatherproofing you’ll get SOAKED as we did 12 years ago!!!

        1. Sorry – ‘the uncovered stand near G3 has just aboutthe same view as G3’ is what I was trying to say. Bad typing / eyesight!!!

          1. Thanks for the info Gareth – very useful and makes me much less nervous about spending hundreds of pounds!

  326. One of the reasons I booked the Elephant was because everybody was saying that it was quiet compared to other sites. If that was quiet I’d hate to stay at a noisy camp! I’m not saying that everybody should be tucked up in bed at 10, but music until 2-3 in the morning was a bit extreme.

    Maybe we were unlucky as we were right next to the german camp adjacent to the exit and they were having a good time. Not sure they actually got to the track as every time we came back they were there!

    As somebody else has said, maybe the Elephant is a victim of it’s success.

  327. I finally got around to uploading a bunch of the photos I took of the road-trip & F1 weekend at Spa.

    If anyone’s interested take a look here…

    http://s170.photobucket.com/albums/u255/TheBishBucket/Spa_F1_2010/?albumview=slideshow

    This links to the slideshow, although you can navigate back to individual photos. I think Photobucket did some image and/or file resizing when I uploaded them so if you try to view individual images from the main album they might not format on your screen properly, hence the link to the slideshow.

    There’s quite a few (136) so you may need to be patient or scroll through to any that look remotely interesting.

    Due to the rain on Sunday there are very few of the race itself, but I took enough on Friday & Saturday practice & qualifying to make up for it. I was more interested in keeping track of what was happening during the race to worry too much about photos.

    PLEASE NOTE:-
    These images can be downloaded or linked-to for personal use only. They must not be used for commercial or promotional purposes without prior written consent from ME! This same copyright information should be conveyed in any links you use or to anybody else you decide to forward this information to. If you agree to this, then the password required to view the album is “Elephant” (without the quotes).

    Enjoy.

    1. Great photos! There is even some of me on the slope at Pouhon! (we were more or less directly opposite the big screen on Sat and Sun)

      We missed the pit walk on the Thursday (arrived too late), but did manage to walk the Kemmel straight and Eau Rouge late Sunday.

    2. Michelle from Newcastle
      8th September 2010, 21:33

      Bloggs, those pics are great. I really enjoyed looking at them, It’s a bit weird seeing our car and tent in someone else’s holiday photos lol :D

      Just out of interest, what camera are you using?

      We too as a few others were in Gold 3, in row 12, which was far enough in not to get soaked, but same, we lost sight of the cars as they started back up the hill.

      If (when) we go again, we’ll go GA, the views from around the track (we walked round on the sat after quali) were amazing.

      1. Hi Michelle,

        Glad you like them. Most of the photos were taken with a Canon EOS 400D, digital SLR. A few were taken (for convenience) using my mobile phone.

        I’ve left the image files intact so if you click in the bottom left corner of the slideshow window where it says ‘back to main view’ you will return to the album. Then click on individual photos & when they load you should see the ‘Image Info’ button on the left. If you click on the arrow next to that it will display all of the image data (camera model, date/time, resolution, aperture etc).

        I don’t often get time to use the camera, so I tend to set it to what I think suits then point & shoot. If I take enough pictures then eventually I should get some worth keeping. I think I took just over 600 that weekend! Not all were relevant to the F1 so I didn’t post them.

        1. Kingsley Newman
          9th September 2010, 12:18

          How much was your camera?

          You got a few amazing shots of the car going towards pouhon (the one of lewis with the whole car and not blurring at all is my favourite)

          I had a really bad digital camera so couldnt get any decent pictures without blurring. I need to get a digital SLR. :]

          Thanks!

  328. Hi Kingsley,

    I don’t recall exactly as it was bought as a birthday present 3 years ago. I think they cost something like £400 at the time but I spent another £200+ on a better lens (Tamron 18-250mm) than the stock Canon one. There are newer & better versions around now, but it’s what I wanted at the time.

    I’m not sure if I have a favourite photo in that bunch, but I like a few…
    the Ferrari control panels on the pit-wall,
    the look between Alonso & Massa in the posters on the Ferrari garage back wall (Massa with the ‘noose’ around his neck!),
    the Lotus mechanic sat on a tyre with his goggles on,
    the close-ups of some of the front wings etc,
    the aero effects of the water displaced by the tyres in some of the wet-shots.

    Maybe for fun it’s the loonies sat high in the tress at Pouhoun or the guys in yellow with the ‘beer-can-belts’ or the guy with his Union Flag face-paint & clothes etc after that race? They all remind me of something from my trip.

    My favourite image however is the Photobucket wallpaper I used. You’ll see it if you click back to the main album page, and it’s kind-of appropriate!! If you don’t get what I mean, read the comments above re. lightning.

    :)

    1. Kingsley Newman
      9th September 2010, 15:11

      I know, I was there!! I was camping in Elephant and sat along Kemmel Straight on Race Day :)!

      I saw the lightning strike too, scary as anything!

      C Dyer on the mclaren garage I think was for Catherine Dyer, we book flights for her as part of Mclaren team :D

      Thanks for advice, definately need to get a better camera :)

      1. The controls labelled ‘C Dyer’ were on the Ferrari pit wall so it’ll be Chris Dyer the team’s chief track/race engineer. Interesting to see them up close though.

  329. No where near as good as Bloogs, but here are some more pictures: – http://s1187.photobucket.com/albums/z393/davejhall/SPA%202010/?albumview=slideshow

    Dave

    1. Meant to say the password is the same as Bloggs – Elephant

    2. Don’t sell yourself short thought the photos were really good. Captured the mud at the elephant perfectly! Top weekend although getting in and out of the campsite was a mission.

      I’ve put together my photos in a short video here.

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-oOkN2P_TM

      Our camera isn’t up to taking shots of the cars as good as yours, so our photos were mostly taken in the paddock as we were lucky enough to have passes on Friday and a tour of the Mclaren garage.

      1. Dave & GasBagable, great pictures/video from both.

        Paddock passes & a McLaren garage tour? You must have friends in high places. I’m so jealous. :(

        1. Yeah, me too. I’m green with envy. That must have been awesome!

          1. It was totally AWESOME! We were really lucky, but this trip might have ruined watching other races for us!

            We had huge smiles on our face on the walk back to our tent at the elephant – the relentless rain brought us back down to earth though…..

  330. Hi All!

    I’m sorry I’m just now writing this, but we just got back to the states (after Spa, we continued onto Paris and then London.)

    We had an amazing time. We stayed in Liege and took the train/bus to the circuit and it worked fine for us. We ended up splitting taxis with people to get back on almost all days. We met some great fun people — including another poster here from Australia with his son. I never caught his name, but hello!!

    We sat in Gold 8- and we really happy with the view. We also trekked around the track and checked out everywhere. What a great weekend!! Our seats were great, and we, too, we able to make it to the podium. We also did the pit walk and that was insane.

    I was just in front of Michael when he came out and was nearly crushed. It was scary, actually. I was pinned and the whole crowd was surging forward. . CRAZY! But, got some great photos of the cars and some drivers. What an amazing chance to be on the circuit itself!

    I’m sorry we didn’t catch up with people on Friday, but man, we were tired and waterlogged! Thank god for covered grandstands, or we’d have drowned. Those camping deserve medals!! :)

    Overall, amazing race, too. I was sad Alonso didn’t do well, but that’s ok. The sheer majesty of Eau Rouge in person made up for it!!

    Not sure if you can see these, but I took a ton of photos:

    http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=168164&id=1109646043&l=0c27cd48ad

    Next year, Montreal…the year after…AUSTIN!!

    1. Agree with you Andrea – Canada next year (was supposed to go this year with work colleague from US but plans changed) and definitely intending to do Austin TX in 2012.

      Also want to make it to Singapore & Australia in next year or two.

      p.s. Not on Facebook so can’t view your photos.

    2. Great photos, we were in gold 8 so must have been somewhere nearby. Agree covered grandstands were a bonus, but we were camping so it was good to get cover from relentless rain!

      Everyones photos make me think I should buy a new camera!

      1. Hey there, I am getting tickets to Gold 8 next year, wondered what you did about the camping? Thanks!

        Adam

  331. Andrea Frederick
    10th September 2010, 15:07

    Take two on some photos, for those not on Facebook:

    Photobucket album: http://s31.photobucket.com/albums/c399/southafricansharkbait/Spa/

    :)

    1. Greast pics Andrea- thanks for sharing!
      I also thinkn a load of us want to do Austin 2012 so please look out for a thread here as we will all need info and you being in US will have to help us!
      Agree all campers deserve a medal-the weather was horrific!
      Also to all Elephanters….we are collating thoughts on what was good and what was not so good so please let me know so we can improve things for next year!
      If you don’t want to post here then send me a mail- for those of you that don’t have it:
      carol.treurnicht@arcor.de
      We need your input please!
      Thanks
      C

  332. Andrea Frederick
    10th September 2010, 21:46

    I’m MORE than happy to help anyone coming for Austin. Everyone here is so friendly and welcoming, returning the favour is the least I could do. I’m sad we didn’t make it to the pub, so I’ll organize the Austin 2010 Fanatics meet up when the time comes!! :)

    1. Great stuff Andrea
      we’ll hold you to that!

  333. Michelle from Newcastle
    12th September 2010, 19:56

    A bit late but our pics are here:

    http://s802.photobucket.com/albums/yy302/shellski2001/Hols%202010%20inc%20Spa/

    Have no idea if there is a password, shouldn’t be!!

    Brooklands, Spa, Bruges, Ypres (so you know what you can skip!)

  334. SOS call to Melissa and Adam from Perth! If you guys now got back home safely please drop me a mail as I want to send yo something!

  335. Hi, Me and 2 friends are going next year just wondered peoples views on Camping their? or other means of accomadation and travel ideas? we are coming from the UK,

    Thanks

  336. Richard Huggins
    16th January 2011, 9:02

    Hi – thinking of going to Spa for 2011 GP. But a breaker for me is if there is no English commentary to listen to on the radio like Silverstone. Can anyone tell me if there is?

    Thanks

    1. Not sure about the circuit commentary but if you get a Kangaroo TV you can listen to the BBC Radio 5 commentary.

      You might want to try asking here: 2011 Belgian Grand Prix discussion

  337. Unfortunately, SPA is not on the calendar for 2011. I can’t wait for it to come back. 2010 was so much fun.

    1. My mistake. It is there. The press in US indicated it would NOT be there in 2011. Maybe they meant 2012. Have a fantastic time. It’s an amazing track and the people were SUPER friendly.

  338. HI guys, so happy booked tickets for the bus stop chicane, weekend tickets. Can any of you reccomend a camp site? i was thinking of http://www.francorchamps-racing-hotel.be/camping-francorchamps.htm this campsite but idealy it would have to be close to the track. I also seen on a website something about a free pit walk on thursday? Who else is going?
    Cheers guys

  339. Don’t book camping at racing hotel. I did and it was dreadful. Toilets disgusting as used by the bar too and had to pay for each use. Owners just want your money for small cramped pitch. Couldn’t even put my guide ropes up properly as it was so small. Book elsewhere

  340. Hello F1 fans, I’ve been living in Belgium for 2 years now and I’m planning on going to the Belgium GP this year (my first one). I have a 5 year-old son and he loves cars and of course I’d love to take him with me. Any advice on this? like: is it ok to take a kid that young?, any special ear protection that I should get?, is the bronze area a good place to take kids?, if you think I shouldn’t take him, why? etc etc etc. All the input will be appreciated. Thanks a lot guys.

    1. I went last year but did not take my son who is 5 as I was uncertain if he would enjoy it it. Spoke to a Dad who was with his 8 year old daughter who was loving the whole experience. Definitely need tickets that will guarantee a seat and ear defenders like those from peltor. Don’t forget that there is very little for them to do when the race is not running. I am planning to take my son to a smaller racing event like touring cars first and seeng how he gets on before taking him to his first F1 race. There are usually plenty of races starting from April at Spa that you could take him to and get a feel of the place

  341. ok thanks for your reply, im now htinking of this elephant place as its not far from the circuit

  342. The Elephant is a good campsite. Very friendly people, good atmosphere an very good toilets/showers. U an also get bread and brekkie if u want. U must go to Mister Bertrands bar in the village, excellent food and drink all at very low prices. 2010 was our first year at Spa and was excellent. The company was very good including Carol and Rolf, Senna boys, Kimi from Barnsley, Kingsley, John and Claire and many many others.

    This is Deffinately the campsite to go to

    1. Ok thanks i will but the web site is pretty bad,how did you book it?

  343. Planning F1SpaF
    1st July 2012, 14:28

    Hi all,

    I’m trying to plan a surprise birthday present for my boyfriend by taking him to Spa this year, but am running into problems planning the accommodation. Reading the threads here has been really informative, and I’ve already emailed Michael about The Elephant campsite. However, I just wanted to check if there were any reasonably priced B&Bs available (I’m not convinced I’m the camping sort). Booking.com has driven me crazy by monopolising all the hotels and the only ones left are really expensive ones.

    We don’t drive, so essentially we’d like something along these options:

    1. B&B close to the race circuit
    2. Camping site close-by that hires out tents (that doesn’t require driving to the race circuit).
    3. Renting a house/cottage/studio that is in walking/cycling distance of circuit (I’ve been looking at places in Stavelot – can you cycle from there?)

    No one has mentioned cycling on here. Is it possible to hire bicycles, cycle from somewhere like Stavelot and find a place to lock the bikes up safely?

    Any, and all suggestions welcome!

    Thanks!

    Susan

    1. Back when we went (2010), we stayed at a B&B that was owned by Ghee’s mom (Michel’s partner). It was not a traditional B&B, Madame opened up her house for the race and provided breakfast. It was a wonderful experience for us. Madame was friendly, and even though we don’t speak much french and she doesn’t speak much english, we got along quite well using the dictionary and phrase books to converse. I don’t know if she still has those accommodations. It would be best to check with Michel. Also, buy a parking pass from the Elephant and either walk to the track or take the shuttle (there is a fee for the shuttle). It rained ALOT when we were there so the shuttle came in handy.

      Have fun – we wish we were going again. It was the most fun we’ve ever had at an F1 race.

      Connie

      1. Planning F1SpaF
        1st July 2012, 23:20

        Thanks, Connie! I shall certainly ask about the B&B. Do I still need a parking pass if I don’t have a car? Or does the parking pass allow you to get access to the shuttle? I’ve just reserved a tent pitch so far.

        The more research I do (I’ve only only recently taken an interest in F1 because my boyfriend is such an enthusiast), the more excited I am about the trip. I just wish the accommodation part wasn’t such a struggle. I clearly should have planned earlier!

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