Bentley's Road Trip Upgrade

author: FutureCar Staff    

In modern marketing, there are a few superlatives that are painfully overused. Many "iconic" images are not truly iconic, and things that are hailed as "legendary" often fail to live up to the hype. As consumers, we become jaded by the constant hyperbole, and the meaning of words begins to lose its significance.

Fortunately, there are still brands that pay attention to the true definition of words. Bentley is one such brand, and it has introduced a new program called Bentley Extraordinary Journeys. These journeys are once-in-a-lifetime driving holidays that live up to their extraordinary title.

The concept behind these journeys is simple. Guests gather at a designated location, where they pick up a fleet of Bentleys. Together, they embark on a meandering route to a specific destination, driving these magnificent automobiles along some of the most picturesque roads in the world.

At first glance, this may seem like something that any car enthusiast could arrange themselves with the help of friends and Google Maps. However, the devil is in the detail. Bentley has utilized its extensive network of partners and its expertise in the luxury market to create truly extraordinary adventures. And let's not forget the thrill of driving a brand-new Bentley.

Currently, there are six planned experiences across the globe, ranging from New Zealand to New Mexico. The original journey, and perhaps the most exclusive one without Bentley's assistance, takes place right here in Britain. It starts at Bentley's own CW1 House and concludes with a special hosting by one of their long-standing partners, The Macallan.

From the moment I arrived at Crewe and stepped into the waiting Flying Spur, I was amazed at every turn. The Extraordinary Journey UK begins with a unique coffee and croissant experience at Bentley's state-of-the-art showroom, CW1 House. Here, guests are introduced to the team who will be taking care of them during the journey, and they learn about Bentley's vision, view new prototypes, and discover the brand's history.

After the coffee break, the journey truly begins with a comprehensive tour of the Bentley factory, which is just a short distance from CW1 House. This tour lasts over two hours and provides an authentic experience of witnessing the real work being done to create these luxury cars. The passion and pride of the craftsmen are evident throughout the tour.

Following the factory tour, guests enjoy lunch back at CW1 House before having some time to freshen up at a local hotel. The first evening's dinner is a truly special occasion. It takes place in the factory itself, surrounded by partially-completed vehicles. The surreal atmosphere and the proximity to the brand's heart create a sense of excitement for the days ahead.

On the next day, the journey starts early with a drive to Speyside. The fleet of Continental GTs and Flying Spurs, unfortunately missing the Bentaygas due to their presence at Goodwood, takes on winding B-roads and makes luxurious stops along the way. Lunch is served at the magnificent Grantley Hall in the Yorkshire countryside, which further highlights the benefits of traveling with Bentley.

Throughout the journey, the support crew takes care of everything. Guests can leave their luggage in their rooms, and it will be safely transported to the next destination. Upon arrival and departure at each scheduled stop, the support team ensures that the cars are turned, the sat-nav is updated, the water bottles are refilled, and the engines are running. The cars are cleaned and fueled while the group enjoys dinner, making sure that each day's ride feels fresh and showroom-ready.

Arriving at Middleton Lodge on the first day, guests find their luggage waiting in their cottages. After a refreshing dip in the outside pool, they indulge in a sumptuous tasting menu with a delightful wine pairing. The next day, the journey continues north through the stunning B-roads of Northumberland and into Scotland. The rolling countryside and the thrill of driving a Continental GT make this leg of the journey truly remarkable.

The journey reaches its peak at the ultra-secluded Treehouses at Lanrick in Perthshire. Bentley hires out the entire venue, ensuring tranquility and privacy. Guests can relax in an outdoor bath and enjoy the warmth of an indoor log fire in their treehouse, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

At Lanrick, dinner is a magical experience. The sounds of the nearby River Teith, the setting sun, and the open fire cooking venison create an atmosphere of peace and luxury. After dinner, the support team chauffeurs guests back to their woodland lodges, where they can savor a nightcap under the star-filled sky and enjoy a restful night's sleep.

The final leg of the journey takes the convoy through the spectacular Highlands and the Cairngorms National Park. Lunch is served at The Fife Arms in Braemar, where a piper welcomes the group. The hotel's expansive art collection and the unique setting contribute to the sense of anticipation for the journey's climax.

The journey concludes at The Macallan Estate on Speyside, where a brand-new distillery complements the historic one. Bentley's strong relationship with The Macallan ensures an exceptional experience at the end of the trip. Guests receive a guided tour of the archives and witness the active production at the distillery. A tasting in a working warehouse allows them to sample rare Macallan expressions.

The final dinner takes place at the distillery, offering a fitting end to the journey. A hidden bar reveals a bottle of the exceptional Macallan 30 year old, providing a final digestive. The details of this trip, from the cars to the stops to the destination, are truly exciting. And the reality of the experience surpasses all expectations. Bentley has truly created something extraordinary.

The attendance cost for the Extraordinary Journey UK program is £14,950 per person, based on two people sharing. For more information, visit bentleymotors.com.

FutureCar Staff