BWT Alpine F1 Team’s Guide to Belgium: What to See, Eat, and Do in Spa

27.7.2023

F1- news Alpine - Alpine’s Guide to Belgium: What to See, Eat, and Do in Spa

Nestled into the idyllic Ardennes Forest in Belgium is one of the most historic racing circuits in motorsport. One of the seven original tracks in Formula 1’s maiden championship in 1950, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps has been drawing crowds to the rolling hills of Belgium for decades. With its iconic long straights and challenging corners, Spa has solidified its role in Formula 1 history and continues to be a favourite for fans and drivers alike.
 

Make the most of your visit with our tips and recommendations for enjoying your stay in Belgium.

Alpine’s Guide to Belgium: What to See, Eat, and Do in Spa
Alpine’s Guide to Belgium: What to See, Eat, and Do in Spa

KEY INFO

Language: Dutch (Flemish), French, German

Time Zone: Central European Summer Time (CEST), (BST +1, GMT +2)

In Emergency: Call 101

Weather: In July, daily temperatures average 70°F/18°C with a chance of rain. Be sure to pack waterproofs given Spa’s renowned microclimate

Getting Around: There is an extensive bus, tram and metro system in Belgium run by three different companies. Public transport in Belgium is divided by region, so be sure to read up on which apps and ticketing platforms you need to use in order to travel from your accommodation to the track.

Top tip: download CityMapper to help you plan the most timely and cost-effective journeys.

AT THE TRACK

Track Action: Keep an eye out for our Alpine Academy drivers throughout the weekend as they join Formula 1 at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. Jack Doohan (Invicta Virtuosi) and Victor Martins (ART Grand Prix) will be competing in Round 11 of the FIA Formula 2 Championship, while Gabriele Minì (Hitech), Nikola Tsolov (ART), and Sophia Floersch (PHM Racing) will be competing in Round 9 of the FIA Formula 3 Championship, the penultimate round of the season.
 

Off-Track Action: Catch BWT Alpine F1 Team drivers Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly at the official Formula 1 Fan Forum stage on Saturday 29 July from 10:40*.

Alpine’s Guide to Belgium: What to See, Eat, and Do in Spa
Alpine’s Guide to Belgium: What to See, Eat, and Do in Spa

FOOD & DRINK

Alpine’s Guide to Belgium: What to See, Eat, and Do in Spa

EXPERIENCE SPA

If you are sticking around after the race to enjoy all that Belgium has to offer, or have some time to explore before heading to the track, here are a few recommendations for the best ways to experience Spa.

  • The historic Parc de Sept Heure was turned into a public promenade in 1758, featuring a collection of monuments such as the Armistice, Jean D’Ardenne, and the Gridelet. Like Hungary, Belgium is home to several thermal baths, including a funicular within the Parc de Sept Heure up to the Thermes de Spa complex.

  • SpaForest is your go-to destination for hiking adventures within the Ardennes forest. With a variety of hiking and biking trails, tree-climbing and ziplining, there’s something for everyone. After a long day of hiking and motor racing, check out the neighbouring towns of Stavelot and Malmedy for stunning architecture and cosy brasseries.

  • Montagne De Bueren is a 374-step staircase built in 1881 to honour the deaths of 600 soldiers in a 15th century battle. Climb the famous stairs for a beautiful view of the city below.


Be sure to keep an eye out for BWT Alpine F1 Team colours on track this weekend. A full timetable* for the race weekend is listed below, all in local time (CEST):

Friday 28 July
 

  • Formula 3 Free Practice 9:55-10:40
  • Formula 2 Free Practice 11:05-11:50
  • Formula 1 FP1 13:30-14:30
  • Formula 3 Qualifying 15:00-15:30
  • Formula 2 Qualifying 15:55-16:25
  • Formula 1 Qualifying 17:00-18:00
     

Saturday 29 July

  • Formula 3 Sprint Race 10:00-10:45
  • Formula 1 Sprint Shootout 12:00-12:44
  • Formula 2 Sprint Race 13:45-14:30
  • Formula 1 Sprint Race 16:30-17:30

Sunday 30 July

  • Formula 3 Feature Race 08:30-09:15
  • Formula 2 Feature Race 10:00-10:45
  • Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix 15:00 (44 laps)

     

*These timings are subject to change.

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