The first “L’Impérial - Rallye d’Exception” kicked-off in Hong Kong in 2006, taking participants on a spectacular, magical journey across southern China. The 2,500 km route meandered through the Pearl River delta before making its way to Dongguan, “The Sea of Songs.”
An extraordinary adventure
The adventure was shared by the 20 teams from across Europe that explored sites well off the beaten path in some of southern China’s most breathtaking and unspoiled country. From behind the wheels of their own classic cars, tour participants marvelled at the Middle Kingdom’s treasures, and the fascination was mutual. From village to village, the local people-unaccustomed to seeing classic cars-greeted the convoy with a combination of curiosity and wonder.
The cars were an excellent ice breaker, giving tour participants and local people opportunities to cross cultures and create lasting memories. Highlights of the tour included a classic car parade along Hong Kong’s iconic Nathan Road, a candle-lit champagne toast and steak and lobster dinner in the Reed Flute Cave near Guilin, and a private cruise along the Li River’s limestone peaks and authentic villages.
Authentic China
The breathtaking scenery was rivalled only by the unique experience of seeing traditional Chinese culture in a way that few have an opportunity to do, from farmers cultivating rice paddies and fields - with the help of water buffalos - to fisherman using the centuries-old cormorant fishing technique. The occasional rough road spiced up a journey that was, after all, about the pleasure of driving!
Download the full record of the rally
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This is the opportunity to reflect on a very unusual journey.
L’Impérial Classic is the only French company to offer vintage car rallies worldwide, combining not only speed but also the art of living and passion for cars.
These rallies, each centred on an exceptional destination, offer splendour, sophistication and true French style and elegance. These watchwords go hand in hand with the quality and originality of the hospitality on offer.
L’Impérial Classic could be nothing other than top of the range, and is today a major player in the vintage rally world. It combines receptions and private visits, fascinating spectacles in unique sites with tailor-made organisation, providing travel through sumptuous countries to explore culture and hitherto undiscovered sights.
L’Impérial Classic retains its fundamental principles, the guarantee of its success and its trademark : unique routes, precise preparation and « haute couture » style, trips which offer each participating team the chance to live their dream.
As a new decade dawns for l’Impérial Classic two outstanding new projects have been announced (the South Africa in 2016 and the end of the world : New Zealand in 2017).