Five unlikely epic drives: Nicolas Hamilton

Nicolas Hamilton lives by the motto that you can do anything if you put your mind to it. Born with cerebral palsy, the 26-year-old – who was once told he would never be able to walk – not only overcame that prognosis but achieved his dream of joining his brother Lewis to become a racing driver. Ahead of the 2019 season, the Monster Energy athlete took time out to give Rebecca Banks the lowdown on his top five drives.

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Col de Turini, France

My all-time favourite epic drive would be the most famous rally stage of the most famous rally event in the world, in my favourite modern all-wheel-drive hatchback. A feature of the Monte Carlo Rally, the Col de Turini stage (‘stage’ just being a closed section of road) passes high in the Alps and is narrow and packed full of hairpins. Those things, combined with massive cliff drops, require good traction, good brakes and nimble handling.

Car of choice: Mercedes A45 AMG

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Grossglockner Pass, Austria

Once upon a time this road was used for Grand Prix racing – it’s 48km with long, clear straights and frequent switchbacks which make for ideal driving conditions today. It takes you right into the centre of a beautiful National Park where you’re surrounded by snow-topped mountains. For me, it would be the perfect place to make full use of Porsche’s fastest 911 to date.

Car of choice: Porsche 911 GT3 RS

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Futa Pass, Florence, Italy

Scything through the Tuscan hills in a Ferrari with near 800bhp is perfect for impressing crazed locals – Italians love a Ferrari, so you can drive here safe in the knowledge that everyone is willing you on to enjoy your front-engined V12 masterpiece.

Car of choice: Ferrari F12 TDF

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Black Mountain Pass, Brecon Beacons National Park, Wales

In my opinion, the best scenery on offer in the UK is here. With breathtaking, far-reaching views, it’s a great twisty road surface with elevation changes, where plenty of sheep add some unpredictability. The GT-R’s twin turbocharged V8 does a good job of shortening every straight, while emitting a wonderful sound that can be heard all around the valley.

Car of choice: Mercedes AMG GT-R

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Tail of the Dragon, Tennessee, USA

McLaren’s smallest car with the roof removed is the perfect choice for the narrow and crowded Tail of the Dragon. With the roof off and the tunnel formed by overhanging trees, there’s plenty to enjoy here on a road that is often described as the USA’s most exciting 11 miles, starting at the Tennessee and North Carolina state line before going on to cut through the Deal’s Gap mountain pass.

Car of choice: McLaren 570S Spider

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This article has been tagged Adventure, Driving