Solitude Race Track

Solitude Race Track Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Stuttgart Historical Sites Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled just west of Stuttgart, Germany, the Solitude Race Track (Solitudering) is a legendary site that weaves together over a century of motorsport heritage, cultural significance, and scenic beauty. Once a stage for epic Grand Prix races, the track is now a celebrated destination for history enthusiasts, motorsport fans, and travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Stuttgart’s rich legacy. This guide provides in-depth coverage of the Solitude Race Track’s history, practical information on visiting hours and tickets, and a curated overview of nearby historical attractions.

The Origins and Evolution of Solitude Race Track
Golden Era: Motorsport Legends and International Prestige
Safety, Closure, and the Enduring Legacy
Visiting the Solitude Race Track: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Exploring Nearby Attractions
Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Useful Resources and References

The Origins and Evolution of Solitude Race Track

Early Beginnings (1903–1930s)

The Solitude Race Track’s roots date back to 1903, when it began as an uphill climb from Stuttgart’s Westbahnhof to the rococo Schloss Solitude, a summer palace built by Duke Carl Eugen of Württemberg. The event quickly grew in scale, attracting major automobile and motorcycle manufacturers, including pre-merger Mercedes and Benz, and led to the creation of the “Solitude-Rennen GmbH” in 1924 (relexa-hotel-stuttgart.de; solitude-revival.org).

By the mid-1920s, the circuit extended to a formidable 22.3 km, featuring steep gradients and 28 bends. Its reputation for technical difficulty and picturesque setting drew comparisons to the legendary Targa Florio in Sicily and quickly made Solitude a magnet for Europe’s premier drivers and manufacturers (solitude-revival.org).

Refining the Circuit (1931–1937)

With increasing speeds and safety demands, the track underwent several modifications. By 1935, the classic 11.4 km (7.1 mi) configuration debuted, beginning at Glemseck, rising steeply to Frauenkreuz, and descending through a series of challenging curves and straights (relexa-hotel-stuttgart.de). The circuit’s blend of elevation changes, rapid corners, and wooded surroundings demanded exceptional skill and memory from competitors (paddock-gp.com).

Interwar and Postwar Motorsport

Throughout the interwar years, Solitude’s international profile grew, especially as a motorcycle racing venue. After a wartime pause, racing resumed in 1949, and the postwar era saw the circuit host German Motorcycle Grand Prix events and non-championship Formula 1 races, regularly attracting crowds of over 250,000 spectators (home.bawue.de).

Golden Era: Motorsport Legends and International Prestige

The 1950s and early 1960s marked Solitude’s golden age. The circuit alternately hosted the West German round of the MotoGP World Championship and was a proving ground for motorcycle legends like Geoff Duke, John Surtees, Mike Hailwood, and Phil Read (roadracingnews.co.uk).

Formula 1 and Formula 2 non-championship races brought stars such as Jim Clark, Graham Hill, Jack Brabham, and local hero Hans Herrmann. The proximity to Stuttgart—home of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche—made Solitude a favored venue for automotive innovation and testing (motorsportmagazine.com). The 1964 German Grand Prix weekend, featuring both Formula 1 and MotoGP events, stands out as a highlight in the circuit’s history (paddock-gp.com).

Safety, Closure, and the Enduring Legacy

Despite its prestige, Solitude’s public-road layout, narrow passages, and dense forests presented significant hazards. Several fatal accidents throughout the 1950s and 1960s underscored the circuit’s dangers (paddock-gp.com). The final race was held on July 18, 1965; modern safety standards and the rise of circuits like Hockenheim led to Solitude’s closure as a professional racing venue (motorsportmagazine.com).

Today, most of the route is open to public traffic, enhanced by monuments and interpretive signage commemorating the achievements and tragedies that shaped the circuit’s story (solitude-revival.org). Annual and biennial revival events, such as the Solitude Revival and Glemseck 101 sprints, celebrate this legacy with classic car and motorcycle demonstrations (de.wikipedia.org).

Visiting the Solitude Race Track: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Visiting Hours and Everyday Access

The Solitude Race Track is not a closed racing venue but a public road circuit accessible year-round. Visitors can walk, cycle, or drive sections of the historic route during daylight hours—ideally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM for safety and the best experience. The scenic surroundings are most enjoyable from spring through early autumn.

Ticket Information and Special Events

No tickets are required to visit the track as a public road. However, special events such as the Solitude Revival or Glemseck 101 require tickets for access to paddocks, grandstands, and demonstration runs. Tickets can be purchased in advance via easyticket.de or at the event (solitude-revival.org). Prices typically range from €26 for a single day standing ticket to €42 for covered grandstand seats, with children under 16 admitted free except for grandstand seating.

Guided Tours

Guided tours are offered during major events and occasionally by local tourism offices. These tours may include access to key sections of the circuit, the paddock, and nearby Schloss Solitude. For up-to-date information, consult official Stuttgart tourism sites or the Solitude Revival website.

Getting There

By Car: Follow signage to Leonberg or Glemseck; parking is available near Schloss Solitude and Glemseck, but fills quickly on event days.
By Public Transport: Regional trains and buses connect Stuttgart city center to Leonberg and Glemseck; a short walk leads to the circuit.
By Bicycle: Scenic bike paths from Stuttgart and surrounding towns offer a pleasant approach.

Accessibility

Much of the circuit is accessible for visitors with disabilities, especially around the palace and main event areas. Some hillside or historic sections may be uneven. Contact local tourist centers for specific accessibility advice.

Exploring Nearby Attractions

Schloss Solitude: The rococo masterpiece that inspired the circuit’s name, offering guided tours and panoramic views.
Mercedes-Benz Museum & Porsche Museum: Celebrate Stuttgart’s automotive legacy with interactive exhibits and classic vehicles (stuttgart-tourist.de).
Bärenschlosspark and Birkenkopf: Enjoy nature walks, lakes, and Stuttgart’s highest vantage point.
Leonberg Old Town: Explore charming streets, shops, and traditional Swabian restaurants.

Visitor Tips and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Solitude Race Track’s visiting hours?
A: The track is accessible as a public road year-round during daylight, generally 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Q: Are tickets needed to explore the track?
A: No tickets are needed for everyday visits. Tickets are required for special events like the Solitude Revival.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, primarily during event periods or via local tourism providers—check event and tourism websites for schedules.

Q: How do I get to the Solitude Race Track from Stuttgart?
A: Use regional trains, buses, or drive to Leonberg or Glemseck, then follow signs to the track.

Q: Is the track wheelchair accessible?
A: Key areas are accessible, but some historic or forested sections may be difficult for wheelchairs.

Q: What else can I do nearby?
A: Visit Schloss Solitude, explore Stuttgart’s automotive museums, hike in local parks, or enjoy regional cuisine in Leonberg.

Useful Resources and References

Conclusion

The Solitude Race Track offers a unique blend of motorsport history, architectural splendor, and the natural beauty of Stuttgart’s western forests. Whether tracing the route of legendary racers, attending a revival event, or exploring nearby cultural landmarks, visitors will discover why Solitude remains a cherished destination for generations of enthusiasts. For the latest updates, event news, and insider tips, download the Audiala app and follow official channels to make the most of your visit.