There aren’t many people in the world that enjoy the opportunity to experience an epic event like watching a motorsport event at the epic LeMans circuit. With such a rich historical motorsport background, the 24 hours of LeMans is one of those “bucket list” checkmarks for true racing fans. So if you happen to be heading to LeMans, what else is there to do leading up to the race or when recovering from 24 hours of motorsport madness?
If you're going solely for the races, stay as close to the circuit as you can. One option is to stay at the circuit itself if you fancy a bit of camping or caravanning. There is no better way to feel like part of the event than actually living it. Alternatively, if you wish you make a touristy vacation out of it, hop online and to look for a compromise between city and circuit.
Here are a few suggestions of things you may want to do to while in LeMans: La Nuit des Chimeres, its bright nights with charming city lights. For the past ten years, LeMans has been dazzling residence and tourists alike with an evening adventure of illumination. The Cité Plantagenêt becomes the backdrop on which video imagery is projected and music is played. With a brisk enough walk, you could actually catch the show on all six buildings. A brilliant display of creativity depicted on a canvas of ancient city walls of a Museum, a cathedral and the Academy garden. Old Town has as much character as Steve McQueen's Porsche 917K... in a completely non-motorsport way. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the historic architecture and quaint maze of cobblestone streets. It’s a quiet retreat not far from the bustling city centre which takes you back to a more simple time. Unwind with scenic stroll.
If you're into history, architecture and art, be sure to pop by the Cathedral of St. Julian. Not quite as old as the chariot races of bygone eras, at over 1000 years of age, however, it's no slouch. It remains one of France's many marvelous religious structures with a fair bit of historical significance. It is understood that it is where King Henry II of England was baptised. Adorned with frescos and mesmerizing stained-glass windows, it's sure to capture your imagination. Not to be missed is also the great Roman Wall of LeMans. The length of 13 American football fields strung end to end and dressed with a dozen towers, it embraces Plantagenet Old City in its pristine condition. Not far off are the museums of both archaeology and fine art.
Finally, should you require a pit stop and a spot of tea, pop into Place du Hallai tea house. Let your senses guide you to any one of the many bistros or restaurants. You really can't go wrong. Be adventurous and try something new.
For all things motorsport, just hop onto lemans.org website for a full listing of scheduled events and available tours.