Destination Belgium: An F1 fan’s guide

The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps is a special stop on the Formula 1 calendar. Set deep in the Ardennes forest, the circuit has dramatic elevation changes and is famously unpredictable, with weather that can shift from sunshine to rain and back in a matter of minutes.

But there’s far more to the region than what happens at the track. From wandering through woodland trails to exploring nearby towns or unwinding in thermal baths, this corner of Belgium offers a slower and scenic contrast to the intensity of race weekend.

Introduction to Spa

Population: 9,900 (approx.)

Time Zone: UTC +2

Language: French, German and Dutch

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Power socket: Type C and E

Weather: Expect four seasons in a day...

The weather in Spa is always unpredictable – rain usually threatens most race weekends. Average daytime highs can reach up to 22 degrees Celsius while nights become cooler. Rainfall is always a possibility, so consider packing a coat and warmer layers for the evenings – especially if you’re camping.

Attractions

Dive into motorsport history at the Spa-Francorchamps Museum

Whilst in town for race weekend, racing fans shouldn’t miss the Spa-Francorchamps Museum, located a short drive away nearby Stavelot Abbey. Packed with racing memorabilia, classic cars and stories from the circuit’s past (alongside history about the local area), it’s a chance to understand why this track is so respected.

Relax in Spa’s thermal baths

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the town of Spa gave its name to spa culture worldwide. Its world-renowned modern thermal baths sit above the town offering panoramic views and the chance to unwind after a busy weekend.

Explore the town of Malmedy

Just a short drive from the circuit, Malmedy is a charming Ardennes town complete with cobbled streets and a relaxed feel that feels a million miles away from the track action. It’s a lovely place to wander, pre- or post-weekend, with small shops, historic buildings and a peaceful riverside setting.

Saunter around the High Fens Nature Park

If you’re craving even more fresh air, the High Fens offers wooden boardwalk trails through beautiful wild moorland and forest. It’s peaceful and scenic.

Food and drink

Brasseries and Ardennes classics

Around Spa and the surrounding Ardennes, traditional brasseries are the place to settle in during the evenings. These serve hearty dishes such as beef stew cooked in dark beer, sausages, frites and rich sauces – all the perfect comfort foods.

Immerse into Belgian beer culture

You’re in one of the world’s great beer nations, so this is the perfect opportunity to explore it. From crisp blondes to deep Trappist ales, bars around the Spa and Malmedy areas take their beer lists very seriously so relax and enjoy.

Waffles, frites and chocolate

It wouldn’t be a successful trip to Belgium without trying something sweet. The country is known for its fresh waffles piled high with toppings, paper cones of delicious frites and proper Belgian chocolate – it’s all part of the experience.

Cafes and nightlife in Spa

In the evenings, the area surrounding the circuit comes alive with bars and late-night spots where fans can wind down and chatt all things racing. It’s lively without feeling overwhelming, with plenty of family-friendly locations too to grab a bite to eat.

Travelling around Spa-Francorchamps

Getting to Spa-Francorchamps can take a little planning, but it’s part of the adventure. The circuit sits in the Ardennes, with the closest train stations in Spa and Verviers connecting to larger Belgian cities such as Brussels and Liege. From the stations, shuttle buses run on race weekend, though allow extra time as services can be busy.

A car gives you the most flexibility for exploring the surrounding forests and villages, and cycling is also popular in the region, with quiet country roads and rolling hills offering scenic (if occasionally challenging) rides. Taxis are available in the area, but with rural distances and race traffic, planning ahead will make all the difference.