The Rally du Soleil (Rally of the Sun) was spectacular! This is a fundraising event administered by the Albuquerque Community Foundation. Each year, one-half of the proceeds are added to the Cinco Amigo Now and Forever Endowment Fund held by the Foundation for the long-term benefit of the community. The other one-half are granted to local nonprofit organizations selected by the organizers of the events.
Before setting out for the Rally du Soleil, several rally participants
decided to get a head start on sightseeing, with a stopover at the nation’s
capital in Washington D.C. several days before the start of the rally. This
gave us some extra time to enjoy the many different attractions around the capital,
which included the Smithsonian Institution, and the dining district among many
other attractions. This was the first visit to Washington D.C. in many years for
the small group, and seeing the historic monuments that represent our country firsthand
was a thrill.
The group explored the major attractions of the Capitol,
including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and
the Smithsonian Institution. The Lincoln
Memorial was also breathtaking, showing a powerful tribute to Abraham Lincoln
and his pivotal role in American history. They admired the towering Washington
Monument, a symbol of national pride.
In addition to visiting the national monuments, the
pre-Rally group also visited one of the Smithsonian Institution's Museums - the National Museum of Natural History; This part of the Smithsonian houses an
impressive collection of historical and priceless antiquities including the
Hope Diamond - a renowned gemstone, that carries a rich history. There were also many other precious stones on display as well, and just as impressive.
After visiting the National Monuments and the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History,
the group embarked on an exploration of some of the area's dining districts, guided by a stroke of luck and valuable recommendations from
locals. They indulged in some great food and drink at one of their first stops at the area's oldest bar - The Old Ebbitt
Grill, which is steeped in rich history. This historic establishment, dating back 1856,
welcomed the group with its charming ambiance and stories of the past. They
reveled in the knowledge that they were sitting in a place where countless
conversations had unfolded over a hundred years ago, and where much history had been witnessed. Reflecting on
their visit, the small rally group felt a sense of fulfillment, having enjoyed
the captivating attractions and delectable delights of the nation's capital. The
experience served as a great intro to the rally, leaving them energized and
excited for the journey to the Greenbrier ahead!
Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring beauty of West Virginia's majestic mountains, you'll find The Greenbrier, a true gem of history and luxury. This renowned resort, a cherished National Historic Landmark, has graciously welcomed guests from all corners of the globe since its establishment in 1778. It all began with the captivating allure of natural mineral springs, which beckoned the very first visitor to this sprawling 11,000-acre haven almost 250 years ago. Today, these mystical waters continue to cast their spell, drawing in travelers seeking a blissful escape.Prepare to be in illustrious company, as The Greenbrier's esteemed guest roster boasts an impressive array of dignitaries. Among the distinguished visitors are an impressive 28 out of the 44 Presidents of the United States, cementing this establishment as a cherished destination for royalty, celebrities, and industry leaders alike. But The Greenbrier's history runs even deeper, revealing its pivotal role in pivotal moments. During World War II, this remarkable retreat transformed into a military hospital, tending to the needs of 24,148 patients. Furthermore, at the height of the Cold War, a clandestine government facility was discreetly constructed on these grounds, serving as a secret haven for Congress. Such extraordinary events secure The Greenbrier's indelible place in the annals of time.
As the sun began its descent, our group finally arrived at The
Greenbrier, a place where history lingered in the air. It was a fortunate
coincidence that just two weeks prior, the esteemed Greenbrier Concours d'Elegance
had graced these very grounds, leaving behind an enchanting aura. Our
excitement soared as we embarked on our inaugural visit to this
legendary property, and needless to say, we were instantly captivated! The
sight that greeted us was nothing short of awe-inspiring - the grounds,
bathed in the warm glow of history with its breathtaking beauty, stood as a testament to its
storied past and promised an unforgettable experience...We took in the sights of the grounds before spending some quality time with Rally participants in rustic Howard's Creek Lounge.
This charming retreat boasts a remarkable white oak log structure,
tracing its origins back to a humble double-pen barn constructed in
1840, just a stone's throw away in Monroe County. Within its walls, visitors discover the "soul" of another era, as
the pinewood adorning the interior was repurposed from the once-vibrant
railroad freight station in White Sulphur Springs. The essence of a
bygone era lingers, embracing you with rustic elegance. And casting a
warm glow above, the chandeliers take center stage, each a cherished
relic from The Greenbrier's former auditorium, now reborn as the
captivating Crystal Ballroom. These timeless treasures, originating from
the illustrious year of 1930, temporarily dimmed their radiance in 1953
to accommodate the expansion of The Greenbrier's conference facilities.
Now, they grace this extraordinary space, a testament to the enduring
legacy of this cherished retreat.
Another area of the Greenbrier the group explored were the Greenbrier Bunkers, that were constructed during the late 1950s as part of "Project Greek Island,"
a covert government initiative. Designed to house high-ranking
officials in the event of a nuclear war, the bunker remained a secret
for over three decades until its exposure in 1992. Today, the bunker
serves as a tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the
Cold War era and the measures taken to ensure the continuity of
government operations.
Next, the rally made a delightful journey along West Virginia's Midland Trail, where scenic wonders await them at every bend. As they embarked on the picturesque drive, they were enchanted by the rolling farms of Greenbrier County and the majestic mountains of Fayette County. Throughout the trail, they discovered numerous pull-offs and scenic overlooks that offered breathtaking vistas. From the vibrant dogwood-adorned forests of spring to the kaleidoscope of colors in autumn, we were impressed with the many waterfalls and iconic beauty of the New River Gorge, which truly showcased the essence of Appalachia. As we approached the Kanawha County end of the trail, the road gently followed the meandering river, offering great glimpses into the area's industrial heritage. Before the advent of the sprawling interstate system, the Midland Trail reigned supreme as a major thoroughfare in the West. It holds a special place in the region's history, and as we traversed its winding path, we felt a sense of connection to the past. (tap or click on an image to view a larger version)
After the exploring the Greenbrier and the beauty of the Midland Trail byway, Rally participants made thier way towards the Blue Ridge Mountains and the great State of Tennesee, with plans for a stopover lunch at the famous Firehouse in Johnson City, before setting in for dinner at the prestigious Old Edwards Inn in Highlands, NC.
About the Blue Rdge Parway Drive: It wasn't until late 1935 that the incredible journey of the Parkway began to take shape. It all started when President Franklin D. Roosevelt paid a visit to Virginia's very first Civilian Conservation Corps camp, where the hardworking folks were busy crafting the beautiful Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park. The President was so taken with the stunning scenery that unfolded before his eyes that he couldn't help but give a resounding thumbs up to the idea of creating a scenic motorway that would connect Shenandoah with the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park.And so, the plan took shape. It was decided that this Parkway would gracefully follow the crest of the majestic southern Appalachian Mountains, weaving its way through the heart of Virginia and North Carolina. The states took charge of acquiring the necessary rights-of-way, ensuring that this extraordinary path would become a reality. Once secured, these precious lands were entrusted to the caring hands of the federal government, to be managed by the dedicated folks at the National Park Service.Now, here's where things get interesting. The Parkway may have a few quirks that set it apart from your typical national park. Its landholdings, you see, can be rather narrow, sometimes narrowing down to a mere 200 feet. But don't let that fool you! Despite its unique configuration, the Parkway is managed with the same love and care as any other cherished site within the National Park system. So, whether you're strolling along its scenic pathways or admiring the breathtaking vistas from your car window, rest assured that you're experiencing something truly special, cared for by the passionate guardians of the National Park Service.
On Wednesday, May 17, Rally particpants started the day with a great breakfast at the Old Edwards Inn, and prepared to go for additional 2-hour driving tour of the beautful Blue Ridge Mountains, before a stop for lunch along the river at the Tapoco Tavern in Robbinsville, North Carolina...
On May 18th,
the Rally group got back on the road and traveled to North Carolina & Tennessee, with some quality driving time spent through the twisty and winding roads of "The Rattler" of Highway 209, along with the famous "Tail of the Dragon" part of Highway 129. The group also stopped to dine in Asheville as well, with a stopover at Isa's Bistro.
GRAND BOHEMIAN HOTEL:
Nestled in the vibrant city of Asheville, North Carolina, the Grand Bohemian Hotel stands as a beacon of timeless elegance and cultural significance. As rally participants embarked on their exhilarating journey, they made a memorable stop at this historic landmark. The Grand Bohemian Hotel, renowned for its opulent architecture and captivating charm, is a testament to Asheville's rich history and artistic heritage. With its ornate furnishings and artistic flair, the hotel offers a captivating ambiance that transports guests to a bygone era. Rally participants found themselves enthralled by the hotel's grandeur, immersing themselves in its unique blend of luxury and artistic allure. From indulging in exquisite cuisine to admiring the hotel's extensive art collection, the group relished their the opportunity to experience the enchantment of the Grand Bohemian Hotel in the heart of Asheville!
THE RATTLER: Highway 209, affectionately known as "the Rattler", weaves its way through the picturesque landscapes of North Carolina, captivating the hearts of rally members seeking a fun drive. Renowned for its winding turns and exhilarating twists, this road offered rally members a unique experience. As the group embarked on thier driving tour along the Rattler, their adrenaline surged with each hairpin curve and breathtaking view that unfolded before them. Tires hugged the pavement as they navigated the serpentine path, feeling the pulse of the road beneath them. Surrounded by lush forests and panoramic vistas, the group found themselves in awe of the natural beauty that accompanied the adrenaline rush.
TAIL OF THE DRAGON HIGHWAY: the renowned Tail of the Dragon at Deals Gap is a legendary road that stretches over 11 miles, and boasts an awe-inspiring 318 curves that challenges even the most skilled motorcyclists and sports car
enthusiasts. As US 129 winds its way through the magnificent Great Smoky
Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest, we experienced uninterrupted bliss with no bothersome intersections or driveways to worry about.
Welcoming countless riders and drivers each year, the captivating route
has earned the well-deserved title of America's premier destination for
thrill-seekers. While the turns were demanding, the group approached them with
caution and had a great driving experiece.
Rally participants made a delightful stop
at the iconic Biltmore Village & Estate. Steeped in history and
brimming with charm, Biltmore Village holds a special place in the
hearts of visitors and locals alike. Originally designed as a
picturesque community for the workers of the Biltmore Estate, the
village now stands as a vibrant destination, adorned with quaint shops,
art galleries, and delightful eateries. As the rally group explored the
cobblestone streets, they immersed themselves in the rich heritage and
unique character of the village. The group savored the opportunity to
browse through antique stores and boutique shops, with a backdrop of
picturesque architecture and the warmth of Southern hospitality...
The Porsche Experience Center in Atlanta, Georgia, has long been an iconic destination for automobile enthusiasts and racing aficionados alike. With a rich history dating back to its establishment in 2015, this state-of-the-art facility has become a hub for Porsche enthusiasts from around the world. Nestled amidst a picturesque landscape, the center serves as a testament to the renowned German automaker's commitment to providing an unparalleled driving experience. Designed to showcase the sheer power, precision, and innovation of Porsche vehicles, the facility offers an array of programs and activities that cater to both seasoned drivers and those new to the world of high-performance automobiles.
Rally particpants made a pit stop at the Center in Atlanta, and as participants stepped foot inside the center, they were greeted by a captivating display of automotive excellence; the group couldn't help but immerse themselves in the center's rich history, admiring the iconic Porsche models that adorned the walls and learning about the brand's remarkable legacy. The facility's various driving experiences provided rally members with an opportunity to unleash their driving skills on the challenging test tracks, and allowed them to push the limits of both themselves and the powerful Porsche vehicles they were privileged to handle. The rally members relished the adrenaline-fueled moments as they navigated sharp turns and accelerated down straightaways, reveling in the unparalleled thrill of driving on a race track. With skilled instructors by their side, they honed their abilities and gained a newfound appreciation for the engineering marvels that these vehicles represent. As they reluctantly bid farewell to the Porsche Experience Center, rally members left with unforgettable memories, a deeper passion for Porsche, and a desire to return to this automotive oasis in the heart of Atlanta.
As the rally group bid farewell to their epic journey through the states of West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolia, and Georgia, and along with select stopovers in Tennessee and Washington, D.C., they couldn't help but reminisce about the remarkable experiences they had shared. The wonderful scenic drives with thier twists and turns though the countryside are what sports car owners and enthusaists love, and fuels thier passion for driving. The rolling mountains and picturesque countryside served as a great backdrop for their unforgettable adventure. The camaraderie that blossomed among the group members was fueled by their shared passion for great driving experiences as well as the discovery of many charming towns and historic sites along the way. They discovered the essence of each destination while enjoying thier cars, forging lasting memories along the way. The rally had been more than just a road trip; it had been a journey of discovery, friendship, and a true celebration of the open road.
