This year marks half a century since Michael Caine reminded cast members that they were “Only supposed to blow the bloody doors off,” and for fans of the iconic film a ‘once in a lifetime’ event has been developed to celebrate.
The Ultimate Italian Job Tour is an 11-day, 1400-mile epic which will take in many of the locations featured in the film and promises to be quite an experience. Starting from Château Tilques near St Omer on October 6, the tour will travel through Champagne country and arrive in Turin on October 9 where participants will stay in the Lingotto hotel within the famous Fiat factory.
The route is laid out in rally style with a tulip road book and participants will be accompanied by a swarm of red, white and blue Minis plus three of the cars from the movie: the red Jaguar E-Type, orange Lamborghini Miura and the Aston Martin DB4. A professional photographer, a film crew and a mechanic will accompany the event.
While in Turin, there will be a walking tour of the city’s film locations, plus a private screening of The Italian Job and an evening hosted by expert on the film Matthew Field, with guests including stunt director Rémy Julienne, actor David Salamone who played Dominic in the film and producer Michael Deeley. A highlight of the stay in Turin will be the opportunity to drive on the famous rooftop test track at the former Fiat factory.
It all sounds like a glorious piece of escapism as well as a great driving holiday but you’ll need the right car to participate: the event is open only to Jaguar E-Types and to pre-1970 Lamborghinis, Aston Martins and Minis. Oh and you’ll also need €5495 per person for double occupancy or €6575 for single occupancy which includes the 4/5-star accommodation and meals.
You’ll find more information at www.classicsontheroad.com.
