We're looking at a full day at the track to allow both driving and spectating, which are both a load of laughs. Eurotunnel seems to be the smartest way to get the cars over and back quickly without messing about with ferries. Last year we also went to Stuttgart to check out the AMG factory and the MB Classic Museum, however this year we'll probably just drive the 'Ring as time is of the essence. All suggestions for other things to do will be entertained.....

We haven't selected a weekend yet from the list below, however the 27-30 August window is looking like the most likely option with 28-30 August being ideal for Sunday driving. Alternatively we could always angle for something over the 13-16 August slot.

Accommodation options are plentiful. We can stay at the Dorint Hotel which is on the straight of the F1 track, or can stay down-market at a closeby town. Anything goes! Camping may even be an option. Sleeping in cars is not an option, as I can't get the seat back very far in the Crossfire. ;-)

Let me know if you are keen! You will not be disappointed. Feel free to pass on to others.

Keep these in mind:

Petrol costs
Eurotunnel costs
Accommodation costs
Mileage
Insurance
Lap costs
Continental breakdown cover
Continental insurance cover
Speed trap/radar protection
Satellite navigation
Beer money
Camera gear
Souvenir costs

Proposed format for the trip is as follows:

Day 1
Meet at the Eurotunnel facilities in the early morning and travel across on the train together as a group. Proceed directly from Calais to Nurburg - approximately 270-300 miles. Drive the ring at a leisurely pace to familiarise ourselves for the following day. Overnight accommodation as close to the track as practical. Night out on the town? ;-)

Day 2
Arrive at the track for a full day's driving and spectating including lunch at the restaurant. Overnight accommodation as close to the track as practical. Night out on the town? ;-)

Day 3
Depart accommodation and return directly to Calais for Eurotunnel transport back to the UK mid afternoon.

Here's the 2004 Nurburgring schedule (local time opening hours) for August/September weekends:

06 August Friday Closed
07 August Saturday 0800-1930
08 August Sunday 1000-1930
09 August Monday Closed

13 August Friday 1515-1700
14 August Saturday 0800-1700
15 August Sunday 0800-1700
16 August Monday 1300-1930

20 August Friday Closed
21 August Saturday Closed
22 August Sunday Closed
23 August Monday 1300-1930

27 August Friday 1415-1930
28 August Saturday 1715-1930
29 August Sunday 0800-1930
30 August Monday 1000-1930

03 September Friday 1715-1930
04 September Saturday 1715-1930
05 September Sunday 0800-1930
06 September Monday 1715-1930