The Circuit de la Sarthe is one of the most famous racing circuits in the world, hosting the 24 Hours of Le Mans — the oldest active endurance sports car race, run continuously since 1923. The circuit is unusual in using a combination of purpose-built track and closed public roads, meaning that for most of the year it functions as an ordinary highway. During race weekend each June, around 250,000 spectators descend on the circuit, making it one of the largest sporting events in the world.
Outside race weekend, the circuit is accessible for exploration. You can walk or cycle parts of the track route, and the grandstands and pit lane are visible from the perimeter. The Mulsanne Straight — once a 6km flat-out blast at over 400km/h, now interrupted by two chicanes — runs south from the main circuit and is driveable as a normal road. The permanent Bugatti Circuit, a shorter loop within the complex, hosts motorcycle racing and is open for track days year-round. Allow at least two hours to explore properly.