The traffic-free roads of southwest France could have been designed with classic car road trips in mind. Stunning scenery, picturesque villages, hill top towns and dramatic coastal routes, perfect for classic car drivers.
When classic car devotees Lyn and Graham Peek from the UK were looking for a home in France, they knew, as soon as they arrived in the Charente-Maritime, that this was the ideal place for them to enjoy their treasured Morgans. They bought and restored La Rose des Vents, a beautiful former Cognac domaine and opened two holiday cottages and a B&B in this most beautiful part of France, which boasts the most days of sun after the far south. Lyn, former Centre Secretary to the Morgan Sports Car Club UK, felt this area was too good to keep to themselves. The couple set up Cottages and Classics. For almost 15 years, they’ve have been organising classic car tours and holidays. They share their expert local knowledge and passion for classic cars with guests from around the world. Knowing the pros and cons (lack of luggage space for instance!) has helped them create classic car tours and bespoke packages that are simply the best.
Classic car holidays in France
Your luxury accommodation in the cottages and Manor House includes delicious breakfasts and dinners. There’s also a heated swimming pool, secure parking in gated grounds and the use of a garage and tools, if required: “it can happen!” says Lyn.
Groups of friends traveling in 3-12 cars can also book a classic car tour and enjoy a relaxed house party style vibe at La Rose des Vents. If the group is bigger, there’s an option for additional luxury accommodation within a few minutes’ drive.
“We share all the best driving roads to take you off the beaten track. Wind your way through rolling vineyards and fields of sunflowers to unspoilt villages in the Charente, Charente Maritime and neighbouring Dordogne and Bordeaux regions. Enjoy local classic car events, places of interest and fabulous restaurants. And, don’t forget, this is Cognac country, so if you’re a fan, there are loads of distilleries and producers you can visit” says Lyn.
Whether you’re looking for a short stopover on your classic car tour through France or a week long stay or more, Cottages & Classics offers relaxing self-catering breaks as well as B&B stays. “We’ve taken many classic car road trips in France. We know what it’s like to have minimal space for luggage so we supply everything you need. You don’t have to bring hairdryers, pool towers, picnic rugs, cool boxes for picnic/food shopping. It’s all here”.
Classic car tours in France
For a brilliant classic car road trip, Cottages & Classics can organise a bespoke tour based on your groups requirements. They’ll provide a detailed itinerary, including roadbook, entry tickets, reserved parking, restaurant meals and guided tours. You just choose the dates – they will do the rest.
They also have a selection of “Signature Tours” such as a classic tour of the Charente-Maritime, taking in the lovely coastal city of La Rochelle and the beautiful Ile de Re, historic Brantome and Aubeterre, officially one of the prettiest villages in France. It also includes the historic naval centre at Rochefort, medieval Pons, the bastide of Talmont, and the Atlantic coast at Royan plus a guided tour and tasting at Hennessy or Baron Otard in Cognac.
Each September Cottages & Classics organise a “Circuit des Remparts Angouleme Special”. The famous classic car race lures thousands to enjoy this colourful and historic event. Join in the 200km Charente rally, cheer on the racing and attend the annual local classic car enthusiasts garden party lunch.
There are also tours that focus on chateaux and vineyards, or treasures of the south west including Bordeaux and deserted roads through vineyards and coastal routes of the Atlantic beaches.
And, if you want to explore the area in a classic car but don’t have one of your own, there are two classic Morgans for hire: a 1992 4/4(1600 cc) 4 seater finished in traditional British Racing Green with matching leather interior. Or 2015 +4 (2 litre) 4 seater finished in Sport White with Cognac leather interior and walnut dashboard.
Pack your sunglasses, hats, head scarves, picnic hamper and rugs, and explore the gorgeous south west of France… you’re guaranteed to feel like a ‘50s film star!
If you’re looking for the best classic car tours in France – contact Lyn at: cottagesandclassics.com
