The question of what airport services are available at the speedway incites thoughts of the places you may stop off before or after your flight. While you’ll have no problem finding a place to eat or stay, you may want to consider other options such as recreational facilities, duty-free shopping, or where you can find a bank or a payphone.
Recreational Facilities
Apart from the track, what else is there to do at the Royal Speedway? You’re in for a treat, as far as the options for recreation go. The trackside itself is an oasis that features a playground, a sand volleyball court, and a basketball court. The sand court is surrounded by a barbed wire fence, and it is used mainly by families with children. The barbed-wire fence also provides some privacy for those using the court.
After the races, the area becomes a lively social hub, with food trucks serving everything from ribs to fish and chips, ice cream, and gelato.
The surrounding streets feature a mix of chain stores and independent businesses. Whether you’re a car fan or an aviation enthusiast, there’s something here for everyone.
Shopping
Shopping at the port of entry is duty free, so prices are lower than those at other retail locations such as airports. You can buy a watch for €19.90, a ring for €34.90, or a scarf for €35.60. If you’re driving or cycling later, you can connect to the Shoppes at Grande Parisienne (IKEA HAYMAKERS), where you can find a massive variety of household goods. There’s also a toy store and a clothing shop if you’re looking for something specific for a child.
Banking
There’s no ATM at the track, so if you need to make a quick cash withdrawal you’ll either need to find a way to change your French francs, or you’ll need to go to another bank. At the moment there are no options for cash withdrawals at the racetrack, except at the casino. The racecourse itself is open for business, with some great French food and drink available to all before, during, and after the event. The whole area is a hub of activity, especially on race days when there are lots of people about.
Airports
When you arrive at the airport, you’ll find yourself in a position where you have to decide whether to rent a car or take the train to your final destination. If you choose to rent a car, the airport offers a free shuttle service that will take you directly to the hotel you selected. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to the nearest train station. When you arrive at the train station, you can either take the train directly to your hotel or connect to one of the frequent train services to Paris.
The taxiing, boarding, and disembarking at the airport can all be a bit stressful, especially if you have a long layover. Boarding and disembarking an aircraft takes a lot of time and is very tedious. There are only a handful of airlines that operate out of the airport, so if you’re looking for a wider spectrum of routes, you’ll need to look elsewhere. However, if you just need a quick flight, take the shuttle bus, as it saves you both time and hassle.