Nordschleife

What is the Nordschleife?

The Nordschleife is a 20.832 km circuit within the Nürburgring complex in the German Eifel region. With 73 corners, around 300 metres of elevation change and weather that can differ from one end to the other, it is widely regarded as the most demanding race track in the world. Jackie Stewart called it the “Green Hell” – and the name still fits. For sports car manufacturers worldwide, a Nordschleife lap time is the ultimate proof of performance.

History and significance

Opened in 1927, the Nordschleife hosted the German Grand Prix until 1976. After Niki Lauda's severe accident, Formula 1 moved to the new Grand Prix circuit, but the Nordschleife remained in use for motorsport and Touristenfahrten public sessions. Today it is a pilgrimage site for enthusiasts, a development ground for the car industry and the stage for legendary endurance races such as the Nürburgring 24 Hours.

What makes the circuit so demanding

The Nordschleife does not forgive mistakes: tight corners such as the Karussell, flat-out sections such as the Döttinger Höhe, blind crests and minimal run-off areas. Its sheer length means you can be driving in rain at one end and sunshine at the other. Learning the lap takes years – even professionals keep finding new nuances.

The Nordschleife with ESC

Experience the Nordschleife properly. At ESC events such as the Nordschleife 750 you drive the Green Hell with professional coaching, a limited number of participants and the fully insured CarForGo fleet. No Touristenfahrten chaos, just focused training. Secure your place on the legend.