High-speed driving can push your next vacation into high gear. More often than not, your life behind the wheel gets spent on city or residential roads, or the highway. But who says you can’t break with routine and throw down the gauntlet to find out what the automobiles you love to drive — or want to drive — are truly made of?
Here, our selection of some top destinations to explore high-speed driving.
Dubai Autodrome—Dubai, UAE
The Dubai Autodrome is the United Arab Emirates’ first fully integrated facility of its kind. Positioning itself as the home of UAE national motorsport, the massive premises include an FIA-sanctioned, 5.39-kilometre circuit with six different configurations, a race school, karting tracks and more. Explore your car’s performance in a controlled and safe environment. Tackle sprawling indoor and outdoor courses without the constraints, restrictions or risks of a public road. Improve with precise lap times and live-timing on track-side screens.
Circuit du Val de Vienne—Le Vigeant, France
The Circuit du Val de Vienne lays claim to one of the finest and most technical circuits in all of France. Born from the meeting of motorsports enthusiasts and inhabitants eager to develop their territory, the 3.77-kilometre track was created in 1990 and received its first competition in 1992, welcoming the cars of the French Supertouring Championship. Observe trajectories and gain insight into vehicle control during extreme manoeuvres. Simulate the loss of grip and realize what it takes to recover your safety on the road. Understand the bases of piloting and how to adapt your driving behaviour.
Las Vegas Motor Speedway—Las Vegas, USA
The Las Vegas Motor Speedway spans a 1,200-acre complex of multiple tracks. Not only do these tracks host local, regional and national motorsports events, but since opening in 1996, the site has played host to some of the most exciting racing under the bright lights of Sin City. Get in the cockpit of the largest selection of supercars available. Push their performance to the limit with one-on-one coaching from a professional racing instructor. Discover what these machines can do at speeds well above what’s legal on any North American road.
Nürburgring—Nürburg, Germany
The Nürburgring holds a Grand Prix race track and much longer north loop, built around the village of Nürburg itself and its medieval castle in the Eifel mountains. Since opening in 1927, it has remained a popular attraction for many driving enthusiasts and riders from all over the world. For one, the lack of oncoming traffic and intersections set it apart from regular roads. The absence of a blanket speed limit is a further attraction. Drive a thoroughbred formula racing car around the circuit yourself. Experience first-hand the unbelievable centrifugal forces, accelerations and decelerations. Comprehend what it means to hunt over the track in racing style.
