As the first light of a crisp November morning filters through the skyscrapers of New York City, our journey from the bustling metropolis to the serene landscapes of Newport, Rhode Island, is about to commence. Before embarking on this exhilarating drive, let’s indulge in the grandeur of our departure point: the Lotte New York Palace Hotel & Towers.
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, this iconic hotel stands as a beacon of luxury and a testament to New York’s Gilded Age. Its history, rooted in the late 19th century as financier Henry Villard’s mansion, is evident in its iron-gated courtyard along Madison Avenue. This stately entrance sets the tone for the elegance and sophistication that define the Lotte New York Palace.
The grandeur continues inside, where the upper lobby and its majestic Grand Staircase connect to the Towers addition, a 1970’s architectural marvel that seamlessly blends with the historical essence of the original structure. The primary entrance on 51st Street leads to a world of opulence, offering a ‘hotel within a hotel’ experience that caters to the most discerning guests.
Our stay in the Towers on the 51st floor presented a breathtaking panorama of the city. Eastward-facing rooms afforded us views of spectacular sunrises, illuminating the expanse from the Hudson River to Brooklyn. The warm and inviting décor of our accommodations made it a haven of comfort and luxury, ideal for lingering and savoring the moment.
The hotel’s Royal Suite Collection is a treasure trove of sumptuous living spaces. Each suite, including the notable three-story Champagne Suite and the Jewel Suite by Martin Katz, is a work of art in itself. Spanning an impressive 5,000 ft² (465 m²), these suites are a harmonious blend of bespoke furniture, curated art, and the finest Hästens mattresses.
Amidst all these luxuries, time was fleeting. The weekend beckoned, and with the arrival of the 2024 Ferrari 296 GTS in Blu Corsa at the 50th Street entrance, our adventure was set to begin. The delivery of this automotive masterpiece drew a crowd, mirroring the arrival of a celebrity. The Lotte New York Palace, known for its prime location and exceptional service, proved to be the perfect setting for the unveiling of such a prestigious vehicle.
The Stage is Set: The Ferrari 296 GTS Awaits
As the Ferrari 296 GTS sat poised in front of the Lotte New York Palace, it was a moment of convergence where luxury hospitality met automotive excellence. The car’s design, a testament to Ferrari’s legacy of elegance and power, promised an unforgettable journey ahead. With the city as our backdrop and the open road calling, we were ready to embark on an expedition that would blend the thrill of driving a Ferrari with the beauty of the East Coast’s autumnal landscapes.
A Masterpiece of Power and Elegance
As we set forth from the grandeur of the Lotte New York Palace, the star of our journey awaits – the 2024 Ferrari 296 GTS. This machine is not merely a car; it’s a testament to Ferrari’s unrelenting pursuit of perfection. Clad in an eye-catching Blu Corsa, the 296 GTS is a dazzling blend of innovation, performance, and style. At its heart lies a marvel of engineering: a V6 – 120° – turbo engine with a dry sump, boasting an overall displacement of 2992 cm3. The engine’s prowess is augmented by a hybrid system, delivering a combined max power output of 610 kW (830 cv) at 8000 rpm and a peak torque of 740 Nm at 6250 rpm. This powerhouse propels the car to impressive speeds, breaching the 0-100 km/h mark in just 2.9 seconds.
The 296 GTS’s design is a striking expression of Ferrari’s design language. Its dimensions – a length of 4565 mm, width of 1958 mm, and a height of just 1191 mm – create a profile that is both aggressive and elegant. The car’s sleek lines and sculpted curves are more than just visually appealing; they are aerodynamically efficient, ensuring that every element serves a purpose. The interior of the 296 GTS is a sanctuary of luxury, with racing seats made of carbon fiber and adorned with leather, offering both supreme comfort and a palpable sense of exclusivity. This exquisite blend of power, design, and luxury makes the 296 GTS an ideal companion for our scenic journey from New York to Newport.
As we embark on this adventure, the 296 GTS stands ready to offer an unmatched driving experience. Its sophisticated electronic controls, including the eSSC system and ABS Evo, ensure a drive that is both exhilarating and secure. The dynamic agility of the car is enhanced by its compact wheelbase and the innovative use of lightweight materials, resulting in a dry weight of just 1540 kg. The 296 GTS is more than a vehicle; it’s a statement of unparalleled automotive excellence, promising a journey filled with adrenaline, elegance, and unforgettable memories.
A Symphony of Fall Colors and Ferrari Prowess
As we bid farewell to the towering elegance of the Lotte New York Palace, the Ferrari 296 GTS beckons. Its Blu Corsa silhouette gleams under the city lights as we prepare for the transition from urban sprawl to the serene vistas of Connecticut. Utilizing its lift system to navigate the New York streets, the 296 GTS gracefully adapts to the city’s rhythm. Upon reaching the highway, the true nature of this automotive masterpiece begins to unfold. As we glide through Stamford, the car becomes one with the urban landscape, its intuitive infotainment system guiding us with real-time traffic updates and navigation.
Our journey takes a scenic turn as we approach Macedonia Brook State Park. The Ferrari 296 GTS, with its adaptive suspension system, is poised to embrace the winding roads and undulating terrain. The November foliage, a tapestry of oranges, reds, and yellows, provides a breathtaking backdrop. The quaint streets and historic charm of nearby Kent add a dash of local color to our expedition. We spend the afternoon immersed in the natural beauty, exploring the trails before setting off toward West Cornwall and its famed covered bridge.
West Cornwall greets us with its picturesque landscapes, the perfect playground for the 296 GTS. The car revels in the opportunity to display its superior handling and agility, its engine’s roar a harmonious symphony with the wilderness of Mohawk State Forest. The drive to Talcott Mountain State Park is nothing short of magical, the country roads adorned with a canopy of autumn leaves. Here, the 296 GTS’s adaptive aerodynamics system truly shines, effortlessly conquering steep ascents and hairpin turns. The hike up Talcott Mountain rewards us with spectacular views, a moment to reflect on the journey thus far.
A Meeting of Motoring Enthusiasts
Our adventure continues through the historic towns of Brooklyn and Pomfret, each exuding a unique charm. The presence of the Ferrari 296 GTS never goes unnoticed; at The Vanilla Bean Café, we find ourselves enveloped in conversations about the car’s allure. The café, a hub for riders and drivers alike, offers a warm and convivial atmosphere. Here, we are not just visitors but part of a community united by a passion for the road. As the sun begins to set, our journey towards Newport resumes, guided by new friends on their bikes. The chosen route, 14A towards Providence, is a driver’s delight, with its sharp curves and scenic beauty, an apt conclusion to this leg of our journey in the extraordinary Ferrari 296 GTS.
The Majestic Arrival in Newport and an Evening at The Chanler
As we departed the picturesque landscapes of Connecticut, the Ferrari 296 GTS’s journey on the 14A road led us towards the highway, a route adorned with magnificent vistas and lush, tree-lined paths. Crossing two grand bridges, we veered right into the old town of Newport, Rhode Island. Newport, the heart of New England’s boating scene, exudes a unique maritime charm that’s as integral to the town as its storied sailing history. The city, dating back to the 1600s, seamlessly blends its seafaring roots with modern tourist appeal, boasting world-class marinas, vibrant restaurants, and a lively music scene. Here, classic America’s Cup 12 Meters sailboats remind visitors of Newport’s rich nautical legacy, offering charter experiences that hark back to the glory days of yachting. The city’s connection to the sea is further celebrated with events like the Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals at Fort Adams State Park, where music and maritime culture intertwine.
Driving through Newport, the Ferrari 296 GTS became part of the town’s tapestry, its modern lines contrasting with the quaint, yachting-themed shops and buildings. Narragansett Bay, once the host of the prestigious America’s Cup Races, now teems with a variety of boats, from J Boats to classic Herreshoff designs, adding to the maritime spectacle. The Herreshoff Marine Museum, located nearby, offers a deeper dive into the area’s rich nautical history, showcasing models and artifacts that speak to the grandeur of past America’s Cup Races.
The Chanler at Cliff Walk – A Haven of Luxury
As the sun dipped below the horizon, our arrival at The Chanler at Cliff Walk marked the end of our day’s journey. This Rhode Island luxury hotel, a testament to Gilded Age elegance, offers a unique blend of contemporary serenity and historical grandeur. The Chanler, situated on Newport’s famed Cliff Walk, is a storied mansion turned into a luxury hotel, featuring twenty distinct rooms each elegantly decorated in various period styles. The hotel promises an experience of relaxed refinement, with amenities like complimentary house car service and stunning ocean vistas.
The evening at Cara, The Chanler’s Forbes Five-Star restaurant, was made even more memorable by the personal touch of Chef Jacob Jasinski. As each dish was served, Chef Jasinski himself introduced them, eloquently explaining their complexities and unique details. This culinary gem, with its sophisticated waterfront setting and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, was truly brought to life by his passion and expertise. ‘Cara’, translating to ‘dear one’ in Italian and ‘friend’ in Gaelic, perfectly encapsulated the warmth of the atmosphere. The blind-tasting menu, a mélange of contemporary and creative dishes including Nantucket Bay scallops, Fall Mushrooms with foie gras, and Slow-Roasted Kuro Wagyu Rib Steak, showcased Chef Jasinski’s commitment to culinary excellence, making Cara an essential experience for any epicure visiting Newport.
As we retired for the night, the echoes of our drive through the autumnal splendor of New England, coupled with the luxurious embrace of The Chanler and the gastronomic delights of Cara, left us eagerly anticipating the adventures of the next day. Newport, with its rich history and vibrant culture, had welcomed us with open arms, and we looked forward to discovering more of its charm.
The following day, imbued with a sense of exploration, we ventured out in the Ferrari 296 GTS to delve deeper into Newport’s charm. From the opulent mansions dotting the landscape to the scenic Ocean Drive, each turn revealed a new facet of this historic town. A highlight of our exploration was a visit to Fort Adams, where the tall ship Oliver Hazard Perry was docked. This educational vessel, captained by Jonathan T. Kabak, became an impromptu classroom for us. We were guided by enthusiastic students who displayed an impressive knowledge of managing such a complex ship. Their passion and expertise offered a glimpse into the rich maritime tradition of Newport and the invaluable learning experiences these tall ships provide.
The Joy of the Journey
Reflecting on our journey from New York to Newport in the Ferrari 296 GTS, it becomes clear that such road trips are not just about reaching a destination, but about savoring the journey itself. The 296 GTS, with its blend of luxurious comfort, exhilarating performance, and striking design, transformed our journey into an unforgettable adventure. This experience serves as a reminder of the sheer joy and freedom that comes from exploring new places, especially when behind the wheel of such an extraordinary machine. It’s an adventure that beckons to be on every car enthusiast’s bucket list – a journey of discovery, not just of the world around us, but of the potential for exhilaration and beauty in every mile traveled. The Ferrari 296 GTS is a key to unlocking experiences that linger long in the memory, urging us to keep exploring, keep driving, and keep dreaming.
Photos: Dylan Cross Dragon Fly Image Partners, Bruce Buck, David Gleeson, Corey Favino, The Chanler Media, Ferrari media, Pablo Ferrero | Words: Janine Devine
