"Embracing a fresh approach, travelers along national road 7 are cruising at 55 kilometers per hour, drawing warm memories from the past"
Celebrating the Soul of the N7: France's Iconic Roadway
The National Road 7 (RN7) in France, stretching approximately 1,000 kilometers from Paris to the Italian border, is being rediscovered as a symbol of summer hedonism and a unique road with a soul. This historic artery, once a major connection between north and south France, is now a cherished reminder of mid-20th century road travel and French holiday culture.
Among those who hold the RN7 in high regard is Alain Pommier, a 70-year-old enthusiast of vintage vehicles. Born in Montargis, Loiret, with the hospital located on the edge of the N7, Pommier's passion for the road emerged during his retirement. He believes that the RN7 has something special, almost a soul, and this sentiment is reflected in his 1966 Simca 1300.
The interior of Pommier's vintage car is decorated in a vintage spirit, attracting attention due to its unique decor. Magnets in the colours of the N7 adorn the doors of his vehicle, while books dedicated to the famous "route des vacances" (route of holidays) lie on the passenger side floor. Pommier bought the Simca 1300 nine years ago as a retirement splurge, and it is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity.
Clubs of fans of old motorcycles and cars are increasingly focusing on the N7, and Pommier's personal memories have contributed to the nostalgia surrounding the road. The RN7, with its quaint towns, vintage petrol stations, and scenic landscapes, offers a romantic and nostalgic experience for vintage vehicle enthusiasts who organize events and drives along the route to relive the experience of historic road travel in France.
The RN7's cultural significance is further highlighted by the Mille Bornes game, created in 1954. The name of this collectible French card game is directly inspired by the approximate length of the RN7, capturing the spirit of a road trip along this iconic highway. The game itself simulates a race along the RN7, further embedding the road into French cultural memory far beyond its physical presence.
In summary, the RN7 is a historic French national route that symbolises traditional road travel and holiday culture. Its cultural significance is highlighted by the Mille Bornes game, and vintage vehicle lovers cherish the RN7 for nostalgic drives and classic car events that celebrate the heritage of French motoring along this route. Alain Pommier's passion for the N7 has inspired renewed interest in the road, and his personal memories have contributed to the nostalgia surrounding the RN7.
While celebrating the soul of the N7, vintage vehicle enthusiast Alain Pommier reminisces about the road's significance during his summer travels, reflected in his 1966 Simca 1300's decor. As a nod to the RN7, his car features magnets, books, and other memorabilia, creating a home-and-garden-esque atmosphere within the vintage car. His passion for the N7 has also led to a revival of interest in the road, inspiring travel along the route for a unique food and lifestyle experience, much like a home-and-garden show or travel documentary.
