The French Formula 1 Grand Prix

From July 22th to 24th, Provence is revving up for a sporting bonanza at the highly-acclaimed Paul Ricard racetrack in Le Castellet. An ideal base for exploring the charms of Provence between two tests…

Published on 8 April 2019

Le Castellet

A Village in the Heart of Provence

The 62th edition of the French Formula 1 Grand Prix will be taking place in the typical Provencal village of Le Castellet, tucked away between Marseille and Toulon. Make the most of your stay to immerse yourself in the mythical or more-unexpected charms of Provence. Climb to the top of the Sainte-Baume or Garlaban hills to revel in 360° vistas. Savour a glass of rosé or Pastis in the charming little ports of La Ciotat and Cassis, both set on the stunning “Route des Crêtes” coast road lined with vineyards. The Provencal coast overflows with many other enchanting spots too, such as the town of Bandol, also world-acclaimed for its wines. Before the Grand Prix blasts off on Sunday July 23nd, treat yourself to a stroll in the beautiful Provence Verte area, or a round of golf on the relaxing greens of the Golf Dolce Fregate in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer. And once the hubbub of the race is over, why not enjoy a soothing country break at the heart of the magnificent Verdon Canyon?

Circuit Paul Ricard

The Ultimate Car Race

After the tranquil charms of Provence, it’s time for some sporting frenzy! The world’s top 20 Formula 1 drivers will be battling for pole position in this exceptional setting between sea and mountain. In 2022, there have been many changes in the rules. Devotees will undoubtedly be looking forward to the upcoming duel between the new world champion Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc who are fighting for the lead of the championship at the beginning of the seasonBut the British Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes), six-time champion and his new teammate George Russell will be in ambush to fight for the top step of the podium.

Straightaways, bends

And adrenaline

Redesigned in the years 2000, its 5.8 km layout is one of the longest on the Grand Prix calendar. Spectators will be able to assess the performance of French rising star Pierre Gasly (Scuderia AlphaTauri) on the Mistral straight, named after the Mediterranean’s notorious gusting wind, or that of Romain Grosjean (Haas) on the “Virage de la Saint-Baume” twist, “Courbe de Signes” turn or “Double Droite du Beausset” – a wide, double-apex corner named after a nearby village. Comfortably seated in the stands, aficionados enjoy the promise of a spectacular show and heart-stopping adrenalin rushes.

How to get here?

It’s easy…

To reach Le Castellet and attend the French Grand Prix, simply fly in to Marseille, Toulon or Nice. If you’re travelling by train, the nearest TG high-speed railway stations are in Marseille, Toulon or Aix-en-Provence. Shuttle services are available to speed you to the event and a special access road has been opened this year for car sharers. Priority is given to two-wheelers and park & ride car parks will be set up to keep the traffic moving. In short, everything is set to ensure the 2019 Grand Prix is one of the year’s most sensational sporting and festive events… Stay tuned!