Valentine’s Day is upon us. Such a special day for lovers around the world and, of course, motorsports’ lovers are no exception. If you or your partner, or both, happen to be racing fans, here we bring you some treats to conquer your heart.

The following surprises will make you forget all about bouquets of roses and candlelit dinners, even if you have to dig a bit further into your pockets. We present you three destinations (Monaco, Silverstone & Indianapolis) that every good petrolhead must visit at least once in his lifetime and, if at all possible, with his/her other half. 

Monaco, the Principality of Ayrton Senna & glamour  

Since the first Formula One World Championship in 1950, the glamorous avenues of the Principality have served as the backdrop of some of the most magnificent sporting feats, and have witnessed some of the most legendary drivers enter the Olympus of Formula 1.

There is one name, however, that stands out among all others: Ayrton Senna. Monte Carlo became the private playground of the Brazilian three-time world champion. His performances there have been unparalleled and no one has been able to match his record of victories (6) and poles (5) on an urban track. 

Having the chance to walk, drive or even get one of the public buses that run along the route of the GP is a unique experience. Passing by the Loews curve or the Santa Devota curve with its small church excavated in the imposing rock or walking through the famous tunnel, will become an unforgettable experience.  

Also, some hotels such as the Fairmont, have a number of souvenirs on display (helmets, gloves, photographs and other objects) belonging to the Brazilian legend in some of their rooms. It is obvious that Senna’s spirit is still present in every corner of the small Côte d’Azur nation. 

Silverstone: The cradle of Formula 1  

The Silverstone Circuit is considered the jewel in the crown of four-wheel racing tracks. Formula 1 was in fact born there when Silverstone was just a collection of old runways in a military airfield used by RAF bombers in World War II. 

It was also there that the first Formula 1 Grand Prix took place. The first British Grand Prix was held on a Saturday (May 13, 1950) and not on a Sunday, as it is now the custom.

Since then, the iconic track, now the temple and home of the sport, has remained loyal to its annual appointment with the World Championship. All of these make Silverstone a perfect place of pilgrimage for motorsport fans, a place where tradition and legend go hand in hand. 

After a major refurbishment of its facilities, a colossal and modern building named ‘The Wing’ was inaugurated in the pits area and has since become its hallmark. Inside, in addition to the team’s garages, has several multipurpose spaces as well as the control tower. 

The mythical track breathes the history and passion of a country that loves the competition like no other and to explore that past, nothing better than getting lost in its museum where you will be taken into a journey of the incredible exploits of stars such as Juan Manuel Fangio, Jim Clark, Graham Hill, Ayrton Senna and Michael Schumacher. 

Indianapolis: The World’s Temple of Speed  

Two years after its inauguration in 1909, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway hosted one of the first automobile races in history: The 500 Miles of Indianapolis. Since that season, the world’s largest sports venue (375,000 spectators) has remained the world’s Temple of Speed. 

Indianapolis is the headquarters of the American IndyCar and has also been a Formula 1 World Championship venue over two periods in history (1950-1960, 2000-2007).

The legendary oval is also part of other American racing competitions such as NASCAR. Having a chance to go visit the mythical ‘brickyard’ located at the finish line, will make your hair stand on end. For the icing on the cake, you can take a tour of its imposing museum, and discover its unique four-wheeled treasures. You will fall in love.

Images of ‘motorsports destinations’: F1.