The Nürburgring Nordschleife is the stuff of motorsport legend—a 13-mile stretch of tarmac twisting through Germany’s stunning Eifel Mountains, revered as the ultimate test of both driver skill and vehicle performance. Dubbed the Green Hell by Jackie Stewart, this iconic circuit is a pilgrimage site for petrolheads from around the globe.
While most refer to the Nürburgring as a single entity, there are actually two circuits: the Nordschleife, the historic track winding through the forests, and the modern GP Track, used for contemporary motorsport events. The two circuits sit side by side, often combining for endurance events like the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. But it’s the Nordschleife, with its blind crests, tight corners, and minimal run-off, that steals the limelight.
Located in a rural part of Germany, the Nürburgring is best reached by car. The circuit is well connected to Western Europe via highways and minor roads, and its facilities include parking for 150,000 spectators, a massive info center, and even a multi-story car park. Be aware that traffic diversions and restrictions are common during race weekends, so plan ahead.
Few tracks offer the accessibility of the Nürburgring, where anyone can take to the tarmac with either their own car or a rented machine. There are two main options:
Touristenfahrten (Public Driving):
Available almost daily, these sessions allow casual drivers to experience the Nordschleife in their own vehicle or a rental. You pay per lap, but keep in mind the track is open to an unlimited number of users at once, from seasoned enthusiasts to first-timers. The atmosphere is relaxed, but some sections, like the Döttinger Höhe Straight, may not be fully accessible.
Track Days:
For a more focused experience, track days offer limited participants, dedicated safety briefings, and higher performance vehicles. These happen about 20 times a year and provide a chance to drive the track in its purest form, with like-minded enthusiasts and far less traffic.
The Nordschleife’s unique layout offers a blend of fast, flowing sections and brutally technical corners, all set against the backdrop of lush greenery. Blind crests, abrupt elevation changes, and narrow margins for error keep drivers on edge. Add unpredictable weather to the mix, and you have a track that’s as thrilling as it is unforgiving. Whether you’re taming the infamous Karussell or flying down Fuchsröhre, every lap is an adventure.
Driving the Nürburgring is more than just tackling a circuit—it’s joining a legacy. From professional racers testing their limits to weekend warriors living the dream, the Green Hell offers a challenge like no other. Whether you choose a casual Touristenfahrten lap or an intense track day, one thing’s certain: one lap is never enough.