Stelvio Lotus Meeting 2025 – 30th Anniversary of the Lotus Elise

Stelvio Lotus Meeting 2025 – 30th Anniversary of the Lotus Elise

The Stelvio Lotus Meeting 2025 – 30th Anniversary Lotus Elise was much more than just a car event. It was three unforgettable days spent driving legendary Alpine roads, sharing stories, and celebrating a milestone that means so much to all Elise enthusiasts.

This year, the occasion was extra special: we celebrated 30 years of the Lotus Elise with a unique guest of honor, Romano Artioli.

Friday: arrivals and the first climb

We arrived in Trafoi with a little twist: the parking at Hotel Bella Vista was a construction site. Luckily, Stephan had already arranged an alternative, and the first challenge was solved before the event even began.

Soon the square filled with Lotus Elise from all over Europe—Netherlands, Belgium, England, and beyond. Different accents, different plates, but the same sparkle in everyone’s eyes.

In the evening, we couldn’t resist: the first climb up the 48 hairpins of the Stelvio. The pass was almost empty, the sunset lit up the mountains, and the photos will stay with us forever.

A barbecue and that homely feeling

The traditional Bella Vista barbecue never disappoints. Grilled meat, pasta tossed in a giant cheese wheel, and long conversations between “repeaters” and newcomers.

That’s the magic of the Stelvio Lotus Meeting—you arrive as strangers and, within hours, it feels like family.

Saturday: hairpins, Switzerland, and a little drama

Early start to beat the Dutch cyclists, and off we went. The road was slightly damp but smooth, perfect to enjoy every corner.

Then came the hiccup: Baby Eli (the Elise S1) decided to stop at the very top. Luckily, it was only clutch fluid, and with a bit of teamwork she was pushed back down.

The tour continued down the Umbrail Pass into Switzerland, postcard views all around, until we reached Ospizio Bernina for coffee. Seeing all those colorful Lotus lined up at the refuge was a feast for the eyes.

At Interalpen Hotel, we were welcomed with a well-deserved lunch, and in the afternoon we climbed back up the Bormio side— still my personal favorite stretch of the Stelvio.

Of course, the group photo at the top was a must. Then came the surprise: Egger Herbert, with his James Bond-style Esprit, fixed Baby Eli. The day ended with a gala dinner to remember.

Sunday: the city turns into a museum

The final stage, but definitely not less exciting: the display in Piazza Tribunale, right in the heart of Bolzano.

Thanks to the support of Veteran Car Team, Credem, Lotus Italia, and the flawless organization of K. Kleewein’s official marshals, the square turned into an open-air museum.

Romano Artioli was already there, surrounded by enthusiasts eager for a photo or autograph. It was truly moving to see him next to so many Lotus Elise—and to remember that we all owe him this passion.

After lunch at Hotel Città di Bolzano, those with energy left drove one last loop: Tires, Carezza, and Passo Lavazè, ending in Cavalese. The perfect closing drive.

A heartfelt thank you

The Stelvio Lotus Meeting 2025 – 30th Anniversary Lotus Elise was a weekend to remember. I started with plenty of question marks and a little tension, but ended with a huge smile and the urge to start planning the next one.

A massive thank you to everyone: Nicolò Bonan for the stunning photos, the whole Delightful Driving team for their constant support, Ilaria for the beautiful event T-shirt, and of course the Gander/Thöni family for their warm hospitality at Hotel Bella Vista.

As for the next Stelvio Lotus Meeting… who knows what surprises are waiting for us?