As the saying goes, “Paris is always a good idea” and that is certainly the case every October when the city comes alive for one of the of the world’s richest horse racing events. Here, at the Longchamp Racecourse,  fashion meets sport with a copious serving of sophisticated dining and champagne. The Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe is not just a horse race but a celebration of European society. As the French say, “Ce n’est pas une course, c’est un monument” –- or, in English, not so much a race, as it is a monument.

The Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe is one of the most prestigious and esteemed events across the globe and has been occurring every year since 1882. Only twice has the event been cancelled, in 1939 and 1940 during World War II. Not even the devastating global pandemic could keep international punters away in 2020, despite being a restricted event with limited spectators. The event truly is spectacular, with incredible green, manicured grass that acts as the stage for a series of thoroughbred horses that perform across up to nine Group One races of differing distances. These performers are teamed with agile jockeys from near and far locations and make for the perfect dance partners. Highlights include United Kingdom Epsom favourites, to the more exotic Japanese colts and Arabian beauties.

At the starting line, tension builds, and the sound of the gun marks the start of the race. The air is electric as esteemed jockeys and international superstar thoroughbred horses soar over the manicured green grass of the racetrack. The whole event is vibrant, but with an air of cool, calm, Parisian chic around it. Some spectators jump for joy at a win, others sip a glass of champagne and look forward to the next race. The Longchamp Racecourse is the perfect backdrop for such an exhilarating and glamourous event.

Certainly, a highlight of any racing event is the fashion, and the Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe is no exception. On the contrary, fashion is the rule. Female spectators are prompted to wear dresses of modest length, and there’s a slight Fall chill in the air, so chic dresses and suits are paired with matching coats. The standout, of course, are the hats. While most French spectators don classy designer headwear, there is also an eclectic mix of hats, fascinators and hairstyles that catch the eye. To add even more style to the weekend, the event also provides DJs as regular entertainment in-between races, and the Longchamp Racecourse has some tantalising options for some exceptional noshing throughout the day.

Take a break from the racetrack for a gastronomic feast at the Panorama restaurant. The Panorama, as suggested by its name, offers outstanding panoramic views of the Longchamp Racecourse. For guests that want something a little more relaxed, the Prestige is a private bar area within the grandstand  that offers sweet bites, snacks, and free-flowing champagne. On Sunday, visitors can arrange private car transfers from the racecourse to the uber-luxe nearby Michelin-star La Grande Cascade Restaurant. Holding a Michelin star since the 1960’s, the La Grande Cascade is the perfect addition to a weekend at the Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe, celebrating exhilarating sports with elegant fine dining.

For aficionados of exhilarating horse racing events that ooze with glamour, the Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe is a spectacular weekend event sure not to be missed. As well as being a world-renowned horse racing affair, it showcases delectable dining options, a blend of eccentric and chic hats, and stunning Parisian fashion. Celebrate in style, pop some champagne, and remember “Ce n’est pas une course, c’est un monument”.