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The International Concours of Elegance: A Frozen Celebration of Vintage Cars and Luxury
Each year, the International Concours of Elegance (The I.C.E.) takes place on the frozen Lake St. Moritz, Switzerland, creating a unique spectacle that blends automotive elegance with the luxury winter heritage of the region.
Founded in 1985 by Marco Makaus, The I.C.E. has grown significantly over the years, attracting a diverse array of classic cars from around the world. The event is not just a showcase of vintage vehicles, but also a celebration of the historical ties between winter motoring and St. Moritz.
St. Moritz, renowned as the birthplace of luxury winter tourism, has hosted the Winter Olympics twice - in 1928 and 1948. The International Concours of Elegance on Ice capitalises on this heritage by staging a prestigious classic car concours on the lake, making it a fitting embodiment of vintage luxury and elegance.
One of the highlights of the event is the participation of brands with historical ties to winter motoring. For instance, Lamborghini Polo Storico recently showcased the Jarama GTS at The I.C.E. in St. Moritz, emphasising Lamborghini's "history on the ice" and its involvement in this distinguished concours d’élégance at this alpine location.
The I.C.E. is also known for its striking visuals. With cars brightly coloured like marbles, they skitter on the frozen lake, creating a mesmerising scene that is unique to this iconic winter destination.
Beyond the automotive world, The I.C.E. has made headlines for other reasons too. In 2021, it was difficult to move without bumping into a bandana-wearing corgi or a labradoodle at the event. The I.C.E. is indeed a celebration of luxury, elegance, and fun.
In the world of journalism, Rosie Paterson, the Digital Content Director & Travel Editor for a leading platform, has been a significant figure. She has edited the platform's special Queen's Platinum Jubilee issue, coordinated its own 125 birthday celebrations, and chaired live discussions on the London property market, sustainability, and luxury travel trends.
Rosie's influence extends beyond her role at the platform. She has written for Mr & Mrs Smith and The Gentleman's Journal, and was even invited to judge a travel media award. The rest of the office jokes that she splits her time between Claridge's, Devon, and the Maldives.
In 2019, The I.C.E. commemorated the Cresta Run's centenary by having participants arrive in vintage Bentleys, further emphasising its connection to winter sports and leisure. The event continues to grow each year, with an increase in the number of dogs in attendance being a notable trend.
As we look forward to the next edition of The I.C.E., it's clear that this frozen celebration of vintage cars and luxury will continue to captivate audiences and reinforce St. Moritz's position as a nexus of refinement and historic significance in winter sports and leisure.
The International Concours of Elegance (The I.C.E.) extends its celebratory sphere beyond vintage cars, as evidenced by the increasing number of pets, such as corgis and labradoodles, gracing the event in recent years. Home-and-garden enthusiasts might find joy in imagining a luxurious lifestyle featuring a pet-friendly home complete with a vintage Bentley in the driveway, as demonstrated by the participants who arrived in such vehicles during the Cresta Run's centenary in 2019.
