Horse racing is enjoyed for many reasons. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of a riveting day at the races and betting on your favourite to win an event.
But the world’s top racecourses also offer a feast for the senses because of stunning architecture and natural surroundings.
Below is our top selections for the most beautiful racecourses in the world.
Piazza Del Campo – Italy
This special course, which is located in Siena, Italy, makes our list because of its striking Tuscan surroundings.
Piazza del Campo is a combination of architectural beauty and rich history.
The shell of this racecourse is divided into a sunburst pattern adorned by red-brick paving. And perhaps the most amazing part is that it dates all the way back to 1349.
Twice every year, horse racing enthusiasts get to experience the magnificent splendour of Piazza del Campo during the Palio di Siena horse race. This is premium horse racing meets medieval Italy at its very best.
Happy Valley – Hong Kong
For those who appreciate the marvels of the modern-day skyscraper, Happy Valley in Hong Kong is the place to be.
Happy Valley is Asia’s most extraordinary racecourse and is overlooked by an architectural jungle of skyscrapers. This makes for a dramatic setting nestled in the very heart of extraordinary rural beauty.
Chantilly Racecourse – France
What makes Chantilly Racecourse so alluring is that it is situated only 30 miles north of Paris.
Several big races that are as popular as the Roulette Canada has to offer are hosted here each year. Constructed in 1879 by renowned architect Pierre Jerome Honore Daumet, the racecourse is surrounded by a grandstand of palatial proportions.
Meydan – Dubai
Meydan, Dubai, is a modern-day visionary wonder. Completed in 2010, the racecourse made its way into the international arena for being the single longest structure in the world.
1,600 metres long, the grandstand is capable of accommodating an incredible 60,000 spectators at a time.
Several premium races are contested here every year, including the world’s richest event, namely the Dubai World Cup.
Churchill Downs – USA
Spanning over 147 acres, Churchill Downs is located in Kentucky in the USA.
After a $121 million renovation in 2005, the racecourse is today recognised as a National Historic Landmark in the country.
It is famously home to the annual Kentucky Derby and boasts the largest ultra HD television video board in the world.
Ascot – England
Ascot racecourse is located in Berkshire, England, and is a true showcase of British history and heritage.
Exceptional about Ascot is that the grandstand was designed in such a way so as to mirror the trees of the surrounding countryside.
In 2011, Ascot celebrated its 300th anniversary. It was first opened during the reign of Queen Anne.
Flemington – Australia
Located on the fringe of busy Melbourne, Flemington Racecourse is set against the backdrop of the breath-taking Maribyrnong River.
This special location is most famous for hosting Australia’s richest annual horse race, the Melbourne Cup.
Constructed in 1840, this beautiful architectural marvel attracts a wealth of celebrities every year.
