The article was originally produced on May 14, 2019, some facts and prices may have changed since then.

Gotlanding

Zlatan Ibrahimović is one of many who sought thrills and adrenaline rushes on Gotland's most fast-paced experience, Gotlandring, a modern and challenging racing track with magnificent surfaces!

It's not just famous people like Zlatan who visited GotlandRing. Famous cars have also been seen on the track. Among other things, Koenigsegg's unique car CCGT, a car that was developed to be used in a racing series, but just when the car was ready, the regulations were changed, which meant that the car could not be raced. So instead of being raced, the car ended up with one of the co-owners of Koenigsegg, Norwegian Bård Eker, who used the car for various track events and had the car at the Gran Turismo Gotlandring event. And speaking of track events, several such have used GotlandRing for their events, in addition to the previously mentioned Gran Turismo Events, Autolife, STACC, GRC and others have also organized events here.

When planning a road trip with activities on a race track, an eco-region in Sweden is not the first place that comes to mind. Surprisingly, the idyllic island of Gotland – one of the most popular destinations for Swedes – offers a challenging but modern and safe race track, a kind of Nürburgring Nordschleife in miniature, called the GotlandRing.

Those crossing over to the Viking island of Gotland can enjoy a quick ferry connection – a 3 hour journey from the Swedish east coast. The large island landscape is very atypical compared to other densely populated islands in e.g. Great Britain, Instead you are treated to picturesque open roads with low traffic intensity and plenty of sunshine in the summer. The island's history, particularly that of the prosperous Viking and Hanseatic periods, fascinates visitors from far and wide. Visby, the main town on the island, is a UNESCO-protected town with its approx. 4 km long medieval wall which is still well preserved. Beautiful golden sandy beaches, turquoise waters, hidden lagoons, pebble beaches and exotic limestone formations dominate the largest island in the Baltic Sea. The main island has an area of 2,994 km² and it is not difficult to find a secluded place for swimming on Gotland. The island offers a varied combination of gastronomy, culture and sporty lifestyle. Golf (one of several beautiful courses is ranked top 2 in Sweden), tennis, water sports, horse riding, and much more is available for those who crave activity

Back to driving

Through its 120+ track days/year, GotlandRing provides unique access to exciting driving experiences. Both car drivers and motorcyclists enjoy the exciting track with its blind turns and hilly track profile. Unlike the Nürburgring, cars and motorbikes run separate sessions at the GotlandRing (which boasts the safest track of its kind). 

"International visitors have started to find their way here, but we are still relatively unknown. In essence, we offer the b2b event and the trackday market, which provides many opportunities for the trackday enthusiasts", explains Alec Arho-Havrén, founder and track architect of GotlandRing.

The track is the world's first environmentally friendly competition and test track. It is built in a former limestone quarry and all energy comes from sustainable sources (wind and sun). Recycled material dominates the construction and all stone material has been sourced locally. The current track length of 3.2 km is awaiting an extension to 7.4 km. With the planned expansion, the already exciting venue will become the longest race track with a modern and safe standard. 

To optimize the Gotland experience, a combination of both exciting and educational driver training with picturesque excursions with stops at interesting places, exquisite gastronomic experiences and beautiful landscape scenery is highly recommended. On the Facebook site (see information summary) you can see the many 5-star testimonials based on both the track and the driver training. GotlandRing offers driver training for all levels — from beginners to experts and already established racing drivers. Alec Arho-Havrén, the flying Finn-Swede, who has won international competitions in both formula and touring cars, often leads the popular track walk as part of the coaching. He really shows the participants how to balance the car around the track with smooth and fast cornering. Alec's other home track is the Nürburgring Nordschleife where he has won several demanding races and the legendary circuit is also the source of inspiration for the design of the GotlandRing's track profile.

The most common car on the GotlandRing is the Porsche. Hence many Porsche clubs from different countries that visit the track on an annual basis. But to get the most out of your driving time, experience and learning curve, try visiting one of GotlandRing's 100+ own track days (found via the online calendar). That way you will maximize your driving time and driving pleasure as many of the various Porsche club days are very well attended.

Information https://www.facebook.com/gotlandring/