The Concorso d’Eleganza at Villa d’Este is a prestigious concours event that has been taking place on the western shore of Lake Como, Italy since 1929. This year’s event showcased some truly remarkable cars, including a McLaren F1 that won the Coppa d’Oro Villa d’Este. However, despite the event’s reputation, there was actually not a great deal of metal on display. This was surprising for first-time attendees like myself.
Fortunately, there was more to see down the road at the neighboring Villa Erba. While not as posh as Villa d’Este, Villa Erba still had its fair share of elegance and charm. However, it felt more like a car show than a traditional concours event. People were eating with improper cutlery, wearing jeans, and even vaping. It was still officially part of the Villa d’Este experience, but the atmosphere was more relaxed and casual.
But the real hidden gems were found in the public car parks. It’s often said that you should always check the car park, and this cliché held true at Villa d’Este. There were rare finds like an Alfa 75 Turbo, a Fiat 850 Sport Racer, and even a one-of-a-kind Maserati Shamal Spider prototype. These were cars you rarely see elsewhere, and they added an element of excitement and surprise to the experience.
Leaving the car parks behind, I ventured out into the streets and was greeted by a parade of classic cars, including a Zagato-bodied Lancia Fulvia. But the final stop on my magical mystery tour was the FuoriConcorso. While not as old or prestigious as Villa d’Este, this venue had a slightly cooler and more underground vibe. Set on a series of steep hills, it provided a breathtaking backdrop for displays of British Formula 1 cars and other cool vehicles like the Autobianchi Giardiniera.
Overall, Villa d’Este and the Concorso d’Eleganza may refer to one regal building and its associated event, but the experience is much more than that. It’s an automotive extravaganza that sprawls far beyond the grounds of a 16th century villa. From the main site to Villa Erba, the public car parks, and the FuoriConcorso, there is something for every car enthusiast to enjoy. Whether you’re a fan of classic cars, modern supercars, or rare prototypes, Villa d’Este has it all. So next time you find yourself at a concours event, don’t forget to explore beyond the main attraction and see what hidden treasures you can discover.