The European banger rally season steps up a gear in May with a host of great events to test your driving skills, endurance and appetite for fun.
Here the banger racing fans at Sterling Insurance pick out the highlights to look out for during the continent’s campaign.
Monte Carlo Black Forest Gateau
For those with a sweet tooth the Monte Carlo or Bust – Black Forest Gateau, which sets out from Namur in Belgium and winds through six countries in four days before finishing in Monte Carlo, is a tasty option. This route covers 1,200 miles so you had better ensure your £500 car is up to the job!
Things kick-off on May 30 and you can expect spectacular scenery, testing navigational challenges and some stunning mountain views before winding up in Monte Carlo, and perhaps a trip to the casino.
James Bond Swiss Run
The James Bond Swiss Run sees you through Switzerland’s stunning roads and winding mountain passes as drivers go in search of James Bond. The rally visits the Grimsel and Furka Passes which feature in 007’s Goldfinger and the GoldenEye Dam.
If you dare, you can even do the same bungee jump that Bond did and take the same cable car ride featured in On Her Majesty’s Secret Service!
The Italian Job
You can dream the dream in The Italian Job which departs on October 1.
The route will take you through the open French countryside, spectacular Lake Geneva, Swiss mountains and hairpin roads such as the St. Bernards Pass, where Charlie Croker – played by Michael Caine – and his gang were famously relieved of their cars by the Mafia in the film that inspires the rally.
You will also see other unforgettable film locations and the exciting traffic chaos of Turin, with a magnificent final-day trip to Monaco before finishing in Nice.
Of course, in the film of The Italian Job, Croker and co were up to no good, but you can read our blog to learn about laws you need to know when driving in Europe.
Rex to Nice
The Rex to Nice Banger Rally will take you from the lush vineyards of Reims to amazing lakes, snow-capped mountains and Monaco before reaching the fabulous and cosmopolitan south coast resort of Nice with lots of fun and frolics along the way.
We have produced a helpful blog on how to build a banger rally car on a budget.
2024 banger rally calendar
Still not found a European banger rally for 2024? Check out our Sterling Insurance banger rally calendar to help with your search.
Banger rally insurance
OK, you’ve got the rally, you’ve got the banger, now all you need is the right insurance to keep you covered for all eventualities.
That’s where the banger rally experts at Sterling Insurance come in with great deals costing from as little as £95 a week. Call 0344 381 9990 for a swift no hassle quote or book a callback at a time better suited to you.