The 12th Ladies Rally Vintage Cars, a Monaco Tale of Elegance

The morning sun rose softly over Monaco, painting the pastel façades of Monte Carlo in shades of gold. By the time the first rays touched the famous Café de Paris, the square was already alive with excitement. Rows of gleaming vintage cars, polished to perfection, lined up like jewels awaiting their moment. It was here, in the very heart of the Principality, that the 12th edition of the Ladies Rally Vintage Cars, created and organized by Martine Ackermann and her association Child Care Monaco, began its enchanting journey.

The ladies, dressed in French Riviera chic-flowing dresses, wide-brimmed hats, pearls, and a touch of glamour-gathered for breakfast. The sparkle of espresso cups mingled with the clinking of laughter, and by 9:30 AM, the adventure was underway. Engines purred, and one after another, the cars departed, a moving parade of elegance and history winding its way into the day.

The first stop was a short but joyful pause: a quick glass of champagne, effervescent as the mood itself, before the convoy set its course towards the hills of Grasse. Their destination: La Bastide Saint Antoine, the domaine of the legendary Chef Jacques Chibois.

Here, artistry unfolded not on canvas but on the plate. A chilled cucumber soup, infused with delicate aromas, offered a whisper of freshness. Next, fish paired with beetroot, haricot, and the zest of lemon carried the finesse of the Mediterranean on every bite. The finale, a lemon tart as bright as the Riviera sun, left no doubt-this was pure délice.

Amid this feast, the tombola brought more surprises. Gifts, elegant and thoughtful, rewarded the ladies who had dressed with unmatched refinement, embodying the theme of French Riviera: chic and glamour. Dresses swayed, hats caught the breeze, and then the air was filled with music. DJ Denis spun a soundtrack that leapt seamlessly from French chansons to international classics. The terrace became a dance floor, laughter mingling with rhythm. Even Martine herself joined in, waving the Monaco flag with grace and devotion, a gesture of love for her country that touched all present.

But the rally was far from over. Engines roared once more, and the vintage caravan traced its way to Beaulieu-sur-Mer, where the seaside elegance of Circe awaited. Tea time by the sea was a painting come to life: trays of cookies, delicate pastries, and refreshing juices accompanied conversations and laughter against a backdrop of shimmering waters. The ladies lingered, savoring both flavors and friendships, before the road called again.
As twilight approached, the final destination rose into view: the Monte-Carlo Beach Club. There, beneath the silhouettes of palm trees, where the setting sun reflected across the pool and the city lights of Monaco twinkled beyond, the evening unfolded in grandeur. Princess Stéphanie of Monaco, along with distinguished members of the Government, honored the event with their presence, underscoring its place among the most refined gatherings of the season. The local star, Victoria Silverstein, was also present to handle a prize at the awards making it even more posh. 

The awards ceremony, a moment of joy and recognition, celebrated not only elegance and style but also creativity prizes for the most harmonious matching costumes with dogs, the finest drivers, clever quiz participants, and of course, the most elegant ladies. Applause rose into the Riviera night, blending with the sound of waves, the glow of chandeliers, and the warmth of camaraderie.

This rally was a celebration of heritage, femininity, and joie de vivre. It was a story of women united by passion, style, and generosity, honoring tradition while creating memories that will last a lifetime. Most important: for a noble cause, charity, helping children in India have access to education.

And as the evening drew to a close, Martine announced what everyone had been waiting for:

The 13th edition will take place on the 13th of September next year.
A date already circled in ink and in hearts, promising another chapter in this Riviera novel.