RALLY 2015
For over 10 years, Cyril Codron of l’Imperial Classic has dreamed of a very special voyage to unveil the beauties of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, pearls of the Baltic. In June 2015, these former Soviet countries revealed the diversity of their landscapes and their rich and eventful pasts. The pleasure of driving was also one of the major attractions of this trip.
Constant sunshine
The sun followed the teams throughout the entire trip, which started in Vilnius. The old town offered an enchanting experience, with its steep, narrow streets, colourful ways and small shops. Among the highlights were a private visit to the former KGB prison and a demonstration of amber-polishing.
A visit to the island of Trakai (a former royal city) and its castle-fortress was very special, with a lake cruise allowing us to view this medieval jewel from a different perspective.
During the Vilnius to Pakruopjis stage, we stopped for an out-of-this world picnic in a forest near the lake of Almajas. Participants were amazed by the candlesticks, silverware, linen tablecloths and organza napkings – as well as the white glove service.
After leaving Pakruopjis a moving spectacle awaited us : the hill of crosses close to Siauliai. The 150,000 crosses, rosaries and other religious objects illustrate the resistance and peaceful fervour of Lithuanian Catholics who were threatened over the course of many years.
A visit to Rundale Palace, a jewel of baroque art with a gilded hall and white room, followed by lunch in the palace dining room, was a unique experience for the participants. The magnificence of the 18th century remains intact at Rundale Palace.
Heading back north
Riga is known for its Art Nouveau architecture. Our visitors were won over by the charm of the old town: vividly coloured closely packed facades, winding streets, and small squares in which to sit a while and daydream.
It is hard to imagine that on the sandy beaches of Jürmala, on the edge of the Baltic, such a glamorous dinner would await the participants: a white tent, reflections of the candles and the romance of a sunset on the sea. This magical, artfully orchestrated evening was unforgettable.
The winding road between Sigulda and Cesis is in good condition - a dream for the drivers!
In Tallinn, medieval charm and modern architecture exist happily side by side. After a scenic lunch in a fishing village it was time to board the ferry to spend the night on the peaceful island of Muhu.
The Baltic countries were the source of many discoveries and a complete change of scene ; this rally will always be a reminder of shared happiness.
Outstanding moments
- The view of Vilnius from a hot air balloon.
- The reception held by the mayor of Vilnius in front of the cathedral
to mark the departure of the cars.
- The private tour of the 600 ton submarine Lembit 600 tonnes at the Seaplane
Museum in Tallinn Harbour.
- Crossing the border using the old smugglers’ routes.
The Baltic countries: wonders on the borders of Europe
Download the full record of the rally
La galerie photos est en cours de maintenance, ouverture prochainement.
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).