About The Great Train Race
Inspired by the legendary 1930 tale of a Bentley taking on Le Train Bleu, our event series is not just a celebration of vintage travel; it’s a living tribute, reimagined on South African soil.
Founded in 2016, this growing fellowship draws inspiration from the historic showdown between Woolf Barnato’s Speed Six Bentley and Le Train Bleu in 1930. Our mission is to preserve and celebrate the heritage of vintage automobiles, aircraft, and steam locomotives, while promoting tourism and cultural appreciation across South Africa.
Each of our events offers participants and spectators the chance to step back in time and experience the excitement and nostalgia of a bygone era. We create unforgettable experiences that capture the thrill of heritage in motion, appealing to all who seek adventure and a touch of nostalgia.
From the exhilarating sight of a steam train powering alongside a cavalcade of vintage cars and motorcycles, to breathtaking aerial displays and vintage aircraft, every moment is designed to captivate and inspire.
Whether you’re a vintage enthusiast, a history lover, or simply seeking a one-of-a-kind day out, our experiences promise an adventure like no other. Join us as we honour the past and create lasting memories for the future.
From vintage motorcades to soaring biplanes, we bring South Africa’s past to life through immersive experiences that move, inspire, and unite.
Celebrate South Africa’s mechanical heritage and vibrant culture through immersive experiences that bring the spirit of vintage travel to life.
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Experience vintage transport at The Great Train Race in Heidelberg, Gauteng. See vintage cars, motorcycles, and aircraft. Relive the 1930 Bentley and Le Train Bleu race, and enjoy food, family activities, and entertainment.
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The Great Tour kicks off with an epic adventure for vintage machine enthusiasts, blending wild adventure, beautiful scenery, and camaraderie over a 2-week period. Pre-1970 cars and pre-1946 motorcycles take to the open road, crossing breathtaking landscapes, forgotten towns, and vast stretches of Karoo stillness. This isn’t a race, but a celebration of grit, spirit, and mechanical soul. A journey where the road is long, the memories unforgettable, and the journey exceptional.
The Adventure from 2024
We’re grateful to our sponsors and partners, past and present. This year’s supporters make The Great Train possible, while last year’s partners helped lay the track for our continued success.
