SEAT Cube, Martorell to Castelloli circuit
SEAT Leon Cupra
The route:
"Following in the wheeltracks of the SEAT Leon Cupra launch, leaving the factory and press conference there is a small section of motorway to endure on the A-2 and C-55 as you drive towards Montserrat and its national park. The left in the centre of Monistrol de Montserrat is the BP-1121, a fabulous piece of tarmac that snakes its way through the mountains and forest. A tight hairpin after a few km goes onto the BP-1103 for more of the same. The NII-a that it joins is a little less frenetic but equally enjoyable, taking you back to the A-2 motorway for a couple of junctions until the Parcmotor Castelloli circuit is reached. Then the real fun starts!"
Pace calms a little on N-II
"Because it's just a beautiful and challenging place to drive a car fast. You will see on the map that the BP-1121 and 1103, prosaically named though they are, are crammed with an array of great corners. That they are set in such dramatic surroundings only heightens the enjoyment. Towering hills overlook the route on one side with lush forest all around for a spectacular view.
"But the road doesn't allow much let up for sightseeing. It jinks from side to side with the surroundings, placing a real emphasis on braking points and steering inputs. Frustratingly, we were allocated a DSG Cupra from the airport, meaning there was no chance to practice and heel-and-toe changes these roads would have been perfect for.
"Most of the route has fairly decent visibility too, and we encountered very little traffic on a Monday morning. Just as you think you're on top of it and establishing a flow, the road will throw in the odd hidden crest or tightening bend. The challenge is addictive, and a real test of your own driving and the car. Smooth tarmac is also a revelation to a British bum!"
Great track at the end of a brilliant road? Win!
Highlights and lowlights:
"Knowing that such an absorbing collection of roads finishes at a circuit was pretty cool. It meant getting used to the car fairly well on the road and then pushing it to the max whilst those impressions were fresh in the mind.
"My favourite section of the BP-1121 was actually the beginning of it; running out of Montserrat it opens up into the surroundings throwing corner after corner at you. That it continues with almost the same intensity can't help but put a smile on your face.
"The biggest downside for someone with limited European driving experience was negotiating the Spanish motorways. The plethora of exits can make sticking to the exact route a frustrating challenge, especially when it's all entirely new. The minor roads are certainly worth the annoyance though!"
Sights, stop-offs and diversions:
"The launch schedule was that rushed there was no real chance to explore the area. No doubt Montserrat and its national park would be a beautiful space to spend some time and the Castelloli track is certainly worth getting to if possible.
"Furthermore, SEAT's Martorell factory is close to Barcelona, making the dream drive a viable route on a quick trip away. Your rental car will love it."
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