FRONT RUNNER EXPLORES 2024: THE GREAT ALPS ADVENTURE
This year, Front Runner Europe headed off on their first-ever self-drive adventure for customers, aptly called Front Runner Explores. With 16 fully equipped vehicles and a team of experts, the convoy set off on a seven-day journey through the stunning mountain landscapes of the Western Alps, navigating technical tracks, switchbacks, and mountain passes along the way. From the dizzying heights of the France-Italy border to the sun-baked beaches of Italy’s coastline, each day offered a different yet unforgettable driving and exploring experience.
It was a trip that threw everything at the team, including rain, road closures, punctures, and mechanical issues, yet not once did their spirit of exploration waver. The journey’s picturesque starting point, Camping Gran Bosco, gave the seasoned adventurers a last chance to prepare their fully kitted and self-sufficient vehicles for the testing tracks ahead. Vehicles ranged from the rugged Defender 110 and Jeep Wrangler JL to van-life icons such as the Mercedes Benz Sprinter and VW T6.
Each morning, route briefings helped drivers decide which route would best suit their (and their vehicle’s) capabilities. This flexibility allowed them to enjoy the trip at their own pace—whether tackling it all or opting for scenic detours. Land Rover Defender owners Dirk and Meike couldn’t agree more. ‘This guided tour gave us invaluable driving experiences on various surfaces such as rock, gravel, mud, and even a few water crossings.’
The driving adventure started with one of the most beautiful routes in the Alps, the famous Assietta Ridge Road, known for its breathtaking mountain vistas. Another highlight of the trip was getting to the top of the Col de la Bonette, which, at 2,900 meters above sea level, is the highest driveable road in all the Alps. This was followed by a short section on the legendary Monte Carlo Rally route.
One of the most challenging sections of the trip was the well-known Ligurian border ridge road, a narrow and rocky single track. It was not for the faint of heart, but it was precisely the type of adventure that Land Rover Defender drivers Manuel and Claudia had signed up for. “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. The desire to discover what adventure lies around the next corner motivated us to do this trip.’
After a few days of adventuring in the mountains, a winding Italian coastal road took everyone towards the final night’s camping spot. Many stories and laughter were shared around the campfire as the successful inaugural Front Runner Explores trip came to a fitting end. Watch this space to find out details of the 2025 trip.
