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Official ‘Crystal cup’ Merano tour – Friday 25 September – Monday 28 September 2026

September 25 - September 28

Official ‘Crystal cup’ Merano tour

Merano, Italy

Friday 25th September – Monday 28th September 2026

 

The Gran Premio Merano is the undisputed highlight of the Italian National Hunt season. First staged in 1935, this famous steeplechase has grown into one of the most prestigious jump races in Europe and every September it brings more than 10,000 spectators to the picturesque Merano racecourse in South Tyrol.

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The roll of honour tells its own story. In 2004, Jim Crowley, who would later become Champion Flat Jockey in Britain, guided Masini to a famous victory, underlining the international appeal of the race. In recent years, the spotlight has belonged to Speed Emile, who has captured the last two renewals with his relentless stamina. His back-to-back wins have made him a modern-day star of the race, and all eyes will be on him in September 2026 as he bids to complete a remarkable hat-trick.

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Every running of the Gran Premio brings high drama, as horses and jockeys are tested to their limits around Merano’s unique course. The atmosphere inside the racecourse is electric, with passionate Italian supporters mixing with racing fans from all across Europe to witness one of the most iconic steeplechases on the calendar.

Flights available from UK and Ireland. Talk to us at time of booking for flight options.

Itinerary

Friday 25th September

  • Depart from London Gatwick to Verona
  • Executive Coach transfer from Verona Airport to Merano, winding our way through the Northern Italian Vineyards and up towards the Alps.
  • Check in at your hotel for your three night stay
  • Evening meal in Merano

Saturday 26th September

  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Enjoy a guided walk of the magnificent Merano racecourse, or choose to explore the town and take the mountain cable car. Alternatively, make the most of your race day tickets with a relaxed afternoon of racing and Italian wines.
  • Evening at leisure.

Sunday 27th September

  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Gentle stroll to the racecourse for the feature race day in Merano – the Gran Premio Merano. It’s a fantastic spectacle at one of the most picturesque racecourses in the world!
  • After racing, you have the rest of the late afternoon and evening at leisure.

Monday 28th September

  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Executive coach transfer to Verona for our final day.
  • Full day in Verona to experience what this great city has to offer.
  • Evening flight from Italy back to London.
Inclusions
  • Return flights from the UK to Italy as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Airport transfers in Italy as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis as indicated in the itinerary.
  • Meal on the opening night (drinks not included)
  • 3-night stay in hotel in Merano
  • Sightseeing day in Verona
  • Official Race Day Tickets for both days (upgrades available).
  • Access to the Italian Wine Area on the racecourse
  • Walk The Course and Behind The Scenes Tour of the Racecourse
  • An experienced Racing Around The World Tour Manager.

Hotel Flora

Hotel Flora combines modern comfort with a relaxed atmosphere, featuring an outdoor pool, wellness facilities and cosy rooms. Ideally situated near the Passer River and just a few minutes’ walk from Merano’s historic centre, it’s a perfect base for your stay.

PRICES FROM £995.00 PER PERSON
 
Contact us for further details

    Details

    • Start: September 25
    • End: September 28
    • Event Category: