Nürburgring

The Nürburgring is surrounded by forest and the occasional village in the Hocheifel district of Germany's Rhineland, within easy travel distance of Bonn or Cologne. It's not far from the health spa of Bad Neuenahr and the scenic castle town of Cochem on the Moselle River. You can drive your own car (check ViaMichelin for directions) or take a bus during major events.

The Grand Prix complex has a four-star hotel, the Dorint Novotel am Nürburgring Hocheifel, right next to the start and finish line.

Nearby, the Start & Ziel café, restaurant, and "Motorsportbar" serves German- and American-style food and drink in the track's former press center. Is main dining room is furnished with vintage cars, and a 200-seat terrace overlooks the racecourse.

You'll also find a pleasant café-restaurant and a separate snack stand by the entrance to the Nordschleife, just down the highway from the Grand Prix track.

A number of moderately-priced hotels are located in the neighboring towns of Altenau and Nürburg.

Nürburgring Web links

Nürburgring
The track's official Web site lists opening hours, tourist activities, racing events, rock concerts, and more.

Nürburgring for Dummies
If you're adventurous (or foolish) enough to attempt the Nürburgring on your own, Christopher Heiser's tips may save you from a fender-bender--or from becoming a fatality.