Le Mans Hotels

How to get a deal during race week

I go to Le Mans every June for the race. It's part of my occupation. Well, maybe thats not the right word. The French are still a little sensitive to that in this part of France ! But half a million people descend onto this town every June and if you want a roof over your head, book early. I mean at least a year ahead. Some of the hotels are booked up by teams and sponsors 2 - 3 years ahead...I found the best deal was to stay at a good clean local B&B. There are good and bad, and you will have to check them out, but the simplest wasy is do the following.
Contact the Bureau de Tourism, based in the center of town. They are on line and most speak English. They will send you a list of B&B's, and normally they go and check them out ahead of time. This way, you can select to stay on the South side of Le Mans, or even in Arnage, both of which are near to the Circuit de 24 Hueres. Anyone who is remotely interested in cars or raccing should do this at least once in their lifetime. The history, the pagentary, the whole event is breathtaking, from scrutineering downtown Monday and tuesday, right through the Parade des Pilotes on Friday at 6pm, the day before the race, also downtown, and finally to the main event. You will not be dissapointed. Also, rent the Steve McQueen movie Le Mans firdt. Although 35 years old, many of the landmarks are still there. Well, the trees have grown a bit, but it still gives you a good idea of what it's all about. I have images on my web site for those of you who are curious. www.art-racing.com have fun !!

Unique Quality: History, Legend, Myth, one of the Great Events on the planet

• Opinion of Price: least expensive
• Address: via Bureau de Tourisme
• Written September 23, 2006

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