Germany's Nurburgring Nordeschleife Vacation Guide - Lord Of The Ring

The Nrburgring Nordeschleife in southern Germany is perhaps the most famous circuit in the world and a mecca for performance enthusiasts who want to experience the daunting track for themselves or simply soak up the atmosphere.

We should point out, it's important to refer to it as the Nrburgring Nordeschleife (northern loop), because this is the difference between referring to the glorious and historic 14.2 miles of public playground and the modern, sanitized, 3.2 mile south circuit Formula 1 track.

Although the Nordeschleife hasn't held an F1 GP since 1977, the 21st century has breathed new life into it. Today it's a test track for numerous manufacturers such as BMW, which has a permanent engineering center at the circuit. It's also the halo track on Sony's Gran Turismo 4 and still hosts an annual 24-hour race for production cars in June. It's an incredible place every car enthusiast should visit. We know, because we've just returned with all the info travelers need to get themselves to the world's best track.

Getting There
Flights are available from many major US cities directly into Frankfurt. It's the nearest city to the Ring and only a couple of hours' drive away. But why not do like us, and thousands of others, and land in London, England? Apart from the tourist appeal and more flights, it's a great drive.

Once in Europe, the chosen car isn't too important. However, beware: some German car rental companies specifically exclude coverage for the Nrburgring, and some have mileage limits. There are even rumors that the rental companies have spies at the Ring who alert them if one of their cars appears!

BMW's Ring Taxi is a regular sight. Passengers need to book in advance but the cost can be shared between three people. It's an unforgettable experience

If you're after something a little special, Avis in Germany rents a new Porsche 911 for around $335 a day, including Nrburgring coverage (exchange rates may vary). Alternatively, there are numerous "rent-a-racecar" companies around the Ring, and the famous "Ring Taxi" if you're looking for the full speed experience from the passenger seat.

Since it was our first time, we rented a VW GTI with DSG to drive to and on the track, but there were sports cars readily available, like the 350Z, RX-8 and Boxster.

The most important consideration is when to go. As the Nordeshleife all but closes in winter, the best time is June-August. And the track, which is still considered a one-way public road, is only open during daylight hours. Manufacturers, clubs and driving schools all book the track for exclusive private use, so check the official website's public dates to avoid disappointment.

The trip across the English Channel also needs planning. There's a ferry, but the faster and more novel way is the Euro Tunnel, via a double-decker car-carrying underground train. For around $350 return (depending on the time of year), it isn't cheap but it's fast, taking just 35 minutes to get from Dover, UK to Calais, France (www.eurotunnel.com).

Once you hit the Continent, speed changes from mph to km/h and cars switch sides of the road, but it's a reasonably simple path through France and Belgium and into Germany. London to Nrburgring is about eight hours, but take maps or a good GPS because you don't want to be stopping to ask for directions.

Following signs to the town of Nrburg, there's a distinct "Indianapolis" feel to the city, with track maps and signs leading to the legendary circuit.

Nordeschleife House Rules
1.No cameras or lap timing
2.Overtake on the left
3.No overtaking official cars when lights are flashing
4.Slow down for yellow flags
5.No stopping on the track

It's a good idea to scan the layout of drive on a video game before sampling it for real. An emergency phone number is provided for the all-too-frequent crashes

The famous banked Karusell is surprisingly steep	The innocuous gate is the only barrier between the public road and the Nordeshleife	A bus ride around the Ring only costs a few dollars and they drive faster than you'd think. It could be the most cost-effective way to see the track
The badge of honor
		That can't be good!