Exceptional cars at the Pornichet racecourse

Shining cars, a transfigured racecourse and enthusiasts from all over France: the exceptional gathering of modern and collectible cars organized in Pornichet promises to be the great mechanical show of spring. On Friday 7 and Saturday 8 November 2025, this multi-brand event will bring together legendary models and recent prototypes on the track normally reserved for horses. Led by local associations and national partners, the event combines festive spirit and a united cause to benefit “Collectors Have Heart.” Between a Renault Alpine parade, a static display of century-old Bugattis and the debut of electric DS cars, visitors will be able to wander among more than a hundred stands, sample regional specialties or watch live catering demonstrations. The promise is simple: bringing together the engineering of yesterday and the technology of tomorrow to remind us that automotive passion remains above all a story of emotion and sharing.

• 🔧 More than 300 vehicles expected, from Citroën Traction to Panhard Dyna.
• 🎯 Non-stop animations : simulators, exchanges, short-circuited first courses.
• 🤝 Charity cause : profits donated to promote organ donation.
• 🚆 Simplified access by train and free shuttles from La Baule station.
• 📅 Key dates : 7-8 November 2025, 9am-7pm.

An atypical scenario for exceptional cars in Pornichet

The Pornichet racecourse, known for its nightly summer meetings, exchanges two days of hoofbeats for engine noise. Located less than five minutes from the ocean, the site spans nearly 35,000 m². The organizers have carefully divided the space into four zones: a “Vintage” corridor reserved for ancestors such as the Facel Vega HK500, a modern paddock dedicated to recent GTs such as the Alpine A110 R-GT, a merchant village offering rare and miniature pieces, as well as a 400 meter acceleration track set up on the finishing straight. This modularity ensures smooth circulation and various viewpoints for photographers.

In practice, logistics is based on clear signage: each exhibitor receives a digital badge, scanned at the entrance to avoid queues. Visitors benefit from free parking nearby, while an electric shuttle service runs to La Baule station every 20 minutes. Thanks to the collaboration with a specialized calendar, the dates do not overlap with any other major national event, thus maximizing attendance.

The metamorphosis of the stands: behind the scenes of an express construction site

Installation work begins four days before the inauguration. The horseboxes are transformed into garages for prestigious vehicles: Venturi 400 GT, Delage D8, and even an electric prototype set up on a Peugeot e-208 base. Each box is equipped with a fast charging station and a reinforced fire prevention system. The stands host a multimedia platform where journalists and influencers broadcast live on social networks.

• 🏗️ Stand assembly using reusable panels ♻️
• 💡 LED lighting on all corridors
• 🔊 Directional audio system to respect the neighbourhood
• 🚰 Water stations and shaded areas for the comfort of the premises

As a nod, a “Postcards & Pistons” pop-up kiosk will let you send a free postcard illustrated with a Bugatti 35, harking back to the time when early racers used racetracks to test their cars.

Iconic collections: from the 1930s Delage to the modern Alpine A110

The sets presented at Pornichet span a century of automotive creativity. On the pre-war front we find a Delage D8-120 S, recognizable by its tapered grille, as well as a Panhard Dynamic, a rare sedan with central steering. The interwar period is exemplified by the Citroën Traction 15-Six and the Peugeot 402 Eclipse, whose retractable roof later inspired modern convertibles.

After 1945, the design refined itself: the DS 19 still seduces with its aerodynamic curves, while the Facel Vega dares French elegance mixed with the power of an American V8. The 1980s saw the arrival of Venturi, the pioneer brand of GTs produced in France. A 260 LM, a former Tour Auto vehicle, will be displayed with its vintage stickers, right next to a rare, carefully restored Renault 5 Turbo 2 group B.

Focus on a handful of mechanical stars

• ⭐ Bugatti Type 57 Atalante: two-tone bodywork, Roots supercharger, 200 hp.
• ⚡ Alpine A110 R-GT 2025: 300 HP supercharged four-cylinder engine, 1,100 kg.
• 🛡️ DS Automobiles E-Tense Performance: 100% electric concept, 600 kW.
• 🥇 Delage D12: hybrid hypercar, 1,000 horsepower, tandem in the cockpit.

For the curious looking to delve deeper into the experience, the specialist gathering site lists other exhibitions nearby, while a national calendar compiles essential auctions.

Animations and immersive experiences for adults and children

Beyond the static exhibition, the programming is full of participatory activities. The rally simulators allow you to relive the victory of an Alpine at the 1973 Monte-Carlo, while a “Let’s dismantle an engine” workshop enlightens the younger ones on the functioning of a 1.5 dCi, a nod to the technical article available on a specialized blog. The regional clubs offer walks along the coast: departure at 10am, photo break in front of the Belle Époque villas, return before lunch.

A “Memorie Sonore” space spreads authentic noises: the rattle of a Panhard Levassor, the low roar of a Venturi Atlantique, the high-pitched song of a four-cylinder Alpine. Visitors can record a custom jingle and walk away with an audio file.

• 🕹️ VR simulation of the Bugatti Chiron on the speed ring.
• 🍔 Food trucks labeled “short circuit”: pancakes, oysters, Guérande salt burgers.
• 📸 Photo competition open to all, theme “Chrome mirror”.
• ✍️ Autograph session with drivers and car comic authors.

To get ahead of the crowds, the official mobile application shows the occupancy rate of each business in real time. The most beautiful video sequences are told by an immersive media that has followed enthusiasts for several years.

Solidarity commitment: heart mechanics and eco-responsibility

The meeting is not limited to the show. The entire proceeds from registrations and reduced auctions will be donated to the “Collectionneurs ont du Cœur” association, which works to raise awareness of organ donation. Last year, more than 30,000 euros were raised, financing poster campaigns and educational material for hospitals.

A dedicated stand offers visitors the opportunity to register in the donor register. Video testimonies, with former pilots saved by a transplant, illustrate the concrete impact of this act. The tribute paid to Gérard Dillmann, a renowned restaurateur who died in 2024 after receiving a heart transplant, will be broadcast on a giant screen; his journey is told in detail on a partner site.

An increasingly green event

• 🌱 Mandatory selective sorting throughout the racecourse.
• 🔌Charging stations powered by solar panels.
• 🚲 Free locker for 200 bicycles.
• 💧 Returnable reusable cups.

You should therefore obtain the “Responsible Event for the Loire Valley” label. The regional press, through a specialized weekly, welcomes this innovative approach, while Cunac enthusiasts share their best practices for organizing a low carbon gathering.

Prepare your visit: access, accommodation and good advice

To fully enjoy the festival, we recommend booking your dated ticket online: €12 for adults, free for children under 12. Weekend Pass holders benefit from skip-the-line access and a bag containing a miniature Renault 4CV in the event colours.

How to come without stress?

• 🚄 TGV Paris-La Baule: 2.55am, free shuttle to the racecourse.
• 🚗 Car: exits 11 or 12 of the N165, car parks from P1 to P4 (3,000 spaces).
• 🚌 Bus: Line E13 from Saint-Nazaire, “Ippodromo” stop.
• ⛵ Passenger ship from Le Croisic every morning at 8:00, sea shuttle.

To plan other mechanical excursions in the region, a regional portal lists the walks monthly, while the national platform lists all the shows until the end of 2025. Parts enthusiasts will find what they are looking for in a dedicated guide.

Finally, don’t miss the last minute announcement published by a local media: a night parade will light up Avenue de Gaulle, bringing together Peugeot 205 GTI, Citroën BX 4TC and Bugatti EB110 under a shower of sparks.

Are pets allowed on the site?

Yes, dogs on a leash are allowed, with the exception of indoor garages where fragile vehicles are located. Water points are provided at the entrances.

Can you participate with your classic car?

A registration form is available online until October 15, 2025. Vehicles must be over 30 years old or considered *prestige and sports cars*.

Is there a family rate?

Yes, the Family Pass (2 adults + 2 children) is available at €30, with priority access to the educational workshops.

Are sprint tracks noisy?

The sound level is limited to 95 dB thanks to special baffles. Demonstrations only take place between 1.30pm and 5.30pm. and 5 p.m