Via Flaminia Classic
Italy as we remember it.
We hope to welcome many participants who have just finished the wonderful Via Hellenica. For those starting the rally here in Italy we seize the opportunity presented by trucks picking up the cars that completed the rally in Greece, to offer an affordable option to bring your car to Italy. Your vehicle will be ready for you upon arrival at Bari Airport.
Our Italy journey commences in the picturesque region of Puglia, where numerous charming small towns each boast their distinctive allure. Our initial stop will be in one such town, where the cars will be showcased on the main square, nestled between an ancient church and a majestic castle.
From the very start, you’ll find yourself immersed in the quintessential experience – small towns, captivating architecture, lively squares, and, of course, renowned Italian hospitality. A warm welcome awaits you.
Our next destination is a brief jaunt to Gargano National Park, where we’ll lodge in a comfortable hotel along the coast. A visit to a traditional cliffside fishery will provide a unique glimpse into local life. Spend the evening exploring the town’s myriad restaurants and bars at your leisure.
After a night out, some might prefer a shorter drive the next day. In Termoli, a cozy family hotel overlooks the harbor, providing a delightful backdrop as we once again showcase our cars, this time by the quay.
Continuing our northward journey, we embark on a longer day to Santo Stefano, a perennial favorite for Via Flaminia and its participants. Nestled high in the Gran Sasso mountains, we’ll enjoy two days as honorary villagers. The captivating high plateaus never fail to inspire, offering thrilling driving experiences. While some may have joined me on previous trips, the allure of this region remains ever-fresh.
After two nights, our expedition proceeds to Umbria, where a castle-village-turned-hotel awaits. Transitioning from the desolate high plains of Gran Sasso to the gentle velvet valleys of Umbria is a delightful contrast. The countryside becomes increasingly inviting. The subsequent day, this feeling intensifies as we journey through Tuscany to a castle that has been a cherished stop since the inaugural Via Flaminia in 2005. This will present a fitting ambiance for the closing dinner.
The next day it’s a 100 km drive to the Airport of Florence where we will be picking up your car to transport it back to Holland.
As always with the rallies organized by Via Flaminia, this is a relaxed rally where competition serves the atmosphere; winning is not an end in itself. Those who want coffee along the way can do so. No time restrictions apply. Of course, we do expect you in time for lunch and dinner. Classification is based on navigation, and the competition for the last place is sometimes fierce. There are 30 places available for cars up to 1980.
For teams whose combined age is under 100, there is a discount of 1% for each year less than 100, with a maximum of 15% (reference year 2025). They may also bring a younger car, one year per 2 years younger than 100.
We hope to welcome some participants from the Via Hellenica, to join us for the subsequent Via Flaminia. For those commencing their journey with the Via Flaminia, a truck will transport your classic car to Bari Airport. To econimise on cost, it will take the cars having just finished the Greek rally back home
The subtitle of this rally is “Italy as we remember it” and nowhere is this sentiment more vivid than in our starting location, Molfetta. Nestled in Puglia, this charming town embodies all quintessential Italian experiences – from the small shops offering fresh produce and delicacies to the lively bars frequented by locals, the narrow streets adorned with Vespa scooters, and the historic churches where elderly ladies, dressed in black with a hump on their back, create an authentic atmosphere.
Our comfortable hotel overlooks the harbour with its fishing ships, embodying the unhurried pace typical of southern Italian towns. It’s an ideal starting point for the Italian rally.
Molfetta sets the perfect stage for the event, offering participants a chance to reconnect and share stories in the numerous bars before we kick off the welcoming dinner.
Today we drive is beautiful through the southern Italian countryside. We leave the coastal region for some tranquil roads meandering through the fields.
Unexpectedly, on the horizon emerges a peculiar sight that, as it draws closer, unveils itself as a meticulously preserved 13th-century citadel. Take full advantage of the ample opportunity to explore this captivating castle, a source of inspiration for Umberto Eco’s renowned novel, “The Name of the Rose.”
Our destination is Vieste, a tranquil fishing town nestled 24 meters above the Adriatic on limestone cliffs. Here, we showcase our cars on the main square overlooking the sea, and immerse ourselves in the charm of a traditional fishery. You have the option to leave your cars in the square and explore the vibrant bars and restaurants, or return to the hotel for a late swim in the sea.
It’s a day that captures the essence of Italy’s enduring charm and promises both relaxation and excitement.
After what was undoubtedly a challenging evening for some, we embark on a relatively short day of respite. Our journey begins with a picturesque drive through the Sfilzi National Park, known for its microclimate and lush forests. Subsequently, we venture into the rural heart of Italy, heading towards our destination – a picturesque town in the Puglia region.
Central Italy, despite its economic challenges, holds a treasure trove of intangible riches—abundant hospitality and a deep appreciation for all things beautiful, especially cars. While it might be straightforward to organize a rally between 5-star hotels, such experiences often miss the essence of the local culture. Today, we invite you to truly immerse yourself.
Our destination is Bovino, a charming small town in northern Puglia. Here, you’ll find an ancient citadel with quaint bedrooms and numerous bed and breakfasts in locals’ homes. Luxury might be scarce, but Italian warmth is guaranteed. In 2018, we visited Bovino twice with our rallies, and each time, the town embraced us wholeheartedly. The main square was cleared, as if preparing for royalty, and those with classic Fiat 500s proudly displayed their cars. What made it truly special was the spontaneous camaraderie—owners turned into impromptu mechanics, generously offering advice on any car issue, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of shared passion.
The theme of this rally is “Italy as we remember It.” From the typical town where we experienced an impromptu “Albergo Diffuso,” spent nights in a castle, and explored a variety of B&Bs, we now venture to a village meticulously transformed into an Albergo Diffuso. I am very happy to have found this gem, which perfectly embodies the essence of Via Flaminia.
Organising this trip I will not always be able to avoid the main road as some of the smaller roads are in deplorable state. Nevertheless, the scenic drive persists, with undulating hills and picturesque vistas from one vantage point to another.
Today promises to be a day of exciting challenges as we leave Molise and embark on our journey to Abruzzo, crossing the majestic mountains of Parco Nazionale della Maiella. Our route northward includes one of my cherished mountain ascents, a thrilling ascent up the Gran Sasso adorned with captivating hairpin turns.
For those familiar with my past journeys to the elevated plateaus of Gran Sasso, you know the enchantment that awaits. These expansive plains are reminiscent of the scenic landscapes of Scotland or, dare I say, even Mongolia.
We will have our own barbecue in the midst of the most marvelous scenery. What could be better than the crisp, fresh air, the enticing scent of roasting meat, and a glass of wine?
As the day unfolds, we’ll find ourselves at yet another Albergo Diffuso, a place we’ve frequented on numerous occasions. A great place to be and to enjoy each others camaraderie.
We leave our village high in the mountains and take one of the splendid roads up again into the high plains of the Gran Sasso. However, this time, we take a different turn and experience the most exquisite driving. Even after having driven this road more than 50 times, I still find myself torn between wanting to go as fast as possible or driving slowly to fully savor the beauty of nature.
We continue, and slowly the ruggedness diminishes, and the scenery becomes more gentle as we arrive in the plains of Umbria.
Those who know me won’t be surprised by my next choice of hotel—another fortified village turned into a hotel. A fantastic setting with astonishing views over the nearby lake.
The last day, but indeed, another splendid day. Well, yes, again. But this is Tuscany, a whole different league. Here, you know you want to drive slowly; it is the domain of slow food. The combination of sensory sensations makes you want to savor the drive slowly. It is an enchanted land.
Our destination is Castello Gargonza, on our list since our first rally in 2005. What a fitting place to conclude this vacation rally. What a fitting place for the closing ceremony!
After a delightful week, saying farewell will be challenging. You can extend your stay a bit longer, relishing the opportunity to further enjoy Tuscany. Alternatively, you can book a few more days in Florence, a city that needs no recommendation.
We say our goodbyes after breakfast, with the sentiment more of an ‘au revoir,’ looking forward to meeting again at another rally. After all, we are all members of the ever-expanding Via Flaminia family. Those who have arranged transport for their cars can leave them at Florence Airport for transportation back to Holland.
Willy Kempeneer (B)
Anne Roete (B)
Chris Kallis (UK)
Elli Kallis (UK)
Johan van Gool (B)
Conny De Laet (B)
Jan Droogers (NL)
Ellen Droogers (NL)
Joseph Sully (USA)
Roxanne Denning (USA)
Donald Ferrari (USA)
Giuliana Ferrari (USA)
Nicholas Bleaney (UK)
James Prentice (UK)
Petr Rysavy (CZ)
Tania Rysava (CZ)
Herman Blaak (NL)
Marion Hoogenes (NL)
Nick Marks (UK)
Annabella Marks (UK)
Niek van Helden (NL)
Marian van Helden (NL)
John McCoy (USA)
Cindy Isberg (USA)
Jules Keyzer (NL)
Janneke Keyer (NL)
Egbert Dijkstra (NL)
Liesbeth van Galen (NL)
Nico Cortlever (NL)
Letty Cortlever (NL)
David Stein (ISR)
Atira Stein (ISR)
Eric Barenbrug (NL)
Lucienne Samuels (NL)
Rally Details
Start: Saturday May 24, 2025
Dogana Resort
Banchina Seminario, 3,
70056 Molfetta BA,
Italy
Finish: Saturday May 31
Castello di Gargonza
52048 Gargonza
Province of Arezzo
Italy
Included
- A maximum of 30 teams
- Seven nights in excellent hotels.
- Five dinners.
- Four to five lunches.
- Technical assistance.
- Raidillon Watch for the winners
- Via Flaminia clothing.
- Road books, rally shields etc.
Entree fee
Registration (downpayment of €1.200, – in before November 1, 2024): € 4.450, -. The rest needs to be payed by February, 2025.
Late registration (downpayment of €1200, – in after November 1, 2024): € 4.650, -. The rest needs to be payed by February, 2025.
Upgrade: € 500, – (you get the better rooms, depending on availability)
Transportation
At the moment it is too early to come up with a price. Let us know if you re interested to have your car shipped and we will see how we can facilitate you.
You are responsible for the booking of your own flight.
Total kilometers
Total rally kilometers: 1250