The Route

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Introduction

Staples2Naples has followed the same route annually, with minor changes here and there. The changes usually took place on Day 2 in Switzerland and had to do with that day's challenge.

A lot of thought and preparation have gone into the Staples2Naples route and we have generally decided that we can't come close to beating it. Quite simply, the amount of driving on each day is just right, the overnight stop overs are just right, and the traffic jams created in Northern Italy... just right.

The rally starts in Calais on 17th September 2010 and finishes somewhere near Naples on the 20th September 2010.

Night 0 - 16th September 2010 - Check-In

As in past years, pre-event Check-In will be held the evening immediately prior to Day 1. This year Night 0, as it has come to be called, will be Thursday, 16th September. Check-In is mandatory for all teams and all team members. There will be no Check-In the morning of the event, so plan to be at the Check-In point on the Thursday evening.

As always, details will be provided to all teams as necessary.

Day 1 - 17th September 2010 - Calais to Sarnen

There are two set routes to Switzerland: the direct route, where you get to experience the joys of French tolls; and the other taking you through 5 countries and the rural French countryside.

The trade-off is simple. If you actually want to get to Switzerland in time to start Day 2, you might want to just go ahead and pay the tolls. If you're up for some adventure (or if you're just a masochist), feel free to navigate yourself any way you see fit.

We can always wave at you when we cross paths again during our trip back to the UK, which might be the next time you see any of the rest of the rally.

Day 2 - 18th September 2010 - Sarnen to Aprica

Swiss Day! 250 miles in 8 hours, covering anything up 7 passes. This is the Staples2Naples signature day and the exact route may not be disclosed until the morning of Day 2. This usually depends on the day's challenge.

Regardless of the exact route, you will not be disappointed.

The day begins near the center of Switzerland. The day ends as you drop over (figuratively, please, not literally!) the Swiss Alps into the Italian Alps of Northern Italy.

Day 3 - 19th September 2010 - Aprica to Viterbo

Night 3 will see Staples2Naples2008 back in its previous venue, historic Viterbo, Italy

The city saw the recent introduction of a new, large (large by European standards, that is) hotel, so maybe some of our teams, at least, will have the chance to experience clean running water and sheets that you can't see through.

We are nothing if not forever hopeful.

Day 4 - 20th September 2010 - Viterbo to Naples

For the last few years, S2N has stopped short of Naples due to health and safety concerns. Naples has had some very public problems during that time and we have felt it best to steer clear of them. This year may see the return of S2N to the Naples area. Stay tuned...