A modern test facility turned race circuit in the hills of Provence. Famous for its distinctive blue and red run-off stripes, Paul Ricard offers 167 possible circuit configurations and a Mediterranean climate.
Set in Le Castellet, Provence, Circuit Paul Ricard is a permanent racing circuit. A lap covers 5.842 km (3.63 miles) and 15 corners, run clockwise.
The circuit opened in 1970 and holds FIA Grade 1 licensing. GT and WEC all race here. It holds roughly 90,000 spectators.
The circuit was funded by pastis. Paul Ricard, who had built a fortune on the aniseed drink, financed a modern racing facility on the plateau above Bandol; construction started in June 1969 and it opened on 19 April 1970. The defining feature was the Mistral, a straight of about a mile leading into the very fast Signes corner.
Ricard died in 1997 and Bernie Ecclestone's company bought the circuit the following year, rebuilding it as a private testing venue rather than a race track. That rebuild produced the surface the place is now known for: instead of gravel, the run-off is painted asphalt in graded abrasiveness — the blue zones slow a car, the deeper red zones slow it harder. It is unmistakable on television and unusual in offering no penalty of dust or damage for running wide.
5 curated properties, sorted by distance from the circuit
RESORT · $$$ · 1.9 km from circuit
Michelin-starred hilltop resort overlooking Paul Ricard and the Mediterranean, pure Provençal luxury. Circuit Paul Ricard is a 5-minute drive away. Facilities include spa and pool.
Visit websiteHOTEL · 20.9 km from circuit
Visit websiteRESORT · 34.4 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 34.6 km from circuit
Visit websiteHOTEL · 42.2 km from circuit
Visit websiteNearest Airport: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) — approximately 65 km from the circuit
Parking inside the circuit is free for most events. On race weekends free park-and-ride sites operate at the La Ciotat, Roquefort la Bedoule, Le Beausset, Signes, Aubagne and Bandol motorway exits, and a dedicated bus lane makes these quicker than driving in. Daily shuttle buses also run from Marseille, Toulon and Aix-en-Provence.
Hotels near Circuit Paul Ricard typically sell out 2-4 months before major race weekends, including the race weekend. For the best rates and widest selection, book as soon as race dates are officially confirmed. Early bookers can save 30-50% compared to last-minute rates.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during race weekends, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Properties within 5km of the circuit command the highest premiums. Consider hotels in Le Castellet centre for better value — the slightly longer commute is offset by lower rates, more dining options, and a livelier atmosphere in the evenings.
Flexible cancellation policies are worth the small premium — race weekends can be rescheduled. Many hotels near Circuit Paul Ricard offer free cancellation up to 48-72 hours before check-in during race weekends.
Visiting Circuit Paul Ricard for a race weekend? Here are essential tips to make the most of your trip to Le Castellet, Provence. The circuit holds up to 90,000 spectators, so plan for large crowds on race day.
Circuit Paul Ricard is located in Le Castellet, Provence. The nearest airport (MRS) is approximately 65 km away. Most hotels near the circuit are within a 5-30 minute drive.
We recommend browsing all 5 curated properties above to find the best match for your budget, travel style, and race weekend plans. Each property has been selected for its proximity to the circuit and quality of service.
Expect to pay $100-300 per night during major race weekends at Circuit Paul Ricard, compared to $60-150 during off-peak periods. Booking 2-4 months in advance typically secures the best rates.
Yes, Circuit Paul Ricard provides parking facilities for race weekend visitors. Parking fills up quickly on race day — arriving before 8am is recommended. Many visitors prefer to book hotels with parking included.
For the best rates and availability, book your accommodation 2-4 months before the race weekend at Circuit Paul Ricard. Hotels within 10km of the circuit sell out first.