Circuito do Sol

Here’s a detailed overview of Circuito do Sol (Serpa, Alentejo, Portugal) from a motorcycle trackday perspective:

🏁 Track Overview

Length & Layouts: Brand-new (summer 2024), the full layout is ~3.7 km long with 23 corners—5 right-handers and 13 lefts—through undulating terrain with blind crests and varied banking
Variants: Includes GT layout (~3 km, 18 corners), Club loop (~1.4 km, 11 corners), and a South semi-circuit (~2 km); plus kart and off-road sections
Character: Inspired by iconic sections—Corkscrew, Eau Rouge, Porsche Curves, Nordschleife Karussell—yet tailored to a compact, technical experience
Elevation: Up to 12% inclines/declines and up to 10° of banked turns

🏍️ Riding Experience

Technical & Physical: Essentially a compact roller-coaster—frequent direction changes, blind transitions, elevation variations demand stamina and concentration.
Flow & Ups & Downs: The layout keeps you actively engaged: uphill camber exits, downhill blind entries, and multiple banked turns reward precision.
Track Density: Despite its newer status, lines reward aggressive late-braking and quick corner re-entry—similar demands to larger European tracks.

🧰 Trackday Setup & Organisation

Noise Limits: Standard bike dB-killer required; likely regulated around 102–105 dB (static/drive-by typical).
Event Formats: Early days include mixed groups, open-pit sessions, and initial guided rollout via safety car
Facilities: Full paddock with garage boxes, electricity, clubhouse, pool, villas, hotel nearby; tyre/drink services available .
Climate & Season: Located in one of Europe’s sunniest regions with ~360 days operational—perfect year-round motorcycle use
Coaching & Membership: Offers track coaching, incentives, race school facilities, and a motorsport-membership model (from ~€10k/year)

😊 Rider Feedback

First Trackday Caution: Launch events featured sighting laps behind safety car and limited numbers per session (~15 vehicles), easing riders into the layout safely
High-Quality Design: Feedback praises the technical variety, modern surface, and thoughtful resort-style amenities.

👍 Pros & ⚠️ Cons

✅ Pros	⚠️ Cons
Fresh, high-grip 3.7 km layout with elevation	New track—rider reviews are still limited
Multiple layouts + kart, off-road, night lit	Noise rules will require compliance
Resort-style facilities, garages & hospitality	Membership fees high if joining club/resort
Year-round usability in sunny Portugal climate	Transition layout may feel tight for fast liter bikes
Inspired design with iconic corner references	Initial run-off and lines still learning curve

🎯 Trackday Tips

Bring noise suppressor – test static and drive-by before riding.
Warm-up gradually – elevation and banking need settled tyres.
First-time caution – choose early group or safety-car introductions.
Book support early – garages, coaching, and villa space will fill fast.
Health & hydration – sun, elevation, and physicality demand preparation.
Travel plans – nearest airport is Beja (~30 min); Lisbon/Faro are also options.

✅ Summary

Circuito do Sol is a bold entry into European motorcycle trackdays—a technical, scenic 3.7 km layout offering a fresh challenge with resort comfort. It’s ideal for riders wanting a modern, varied experience in a warm, supportive setting. While early days mean limited reviews, the infrastructure, design inspiration, and track flexibility are solid foundations.