Eclectica

This year it all begins, once again, with a gesture of understated elegance before the engines of these fine machines bring Rue du Prado to life: the Eclectica Picnic, a new name for an exceptional event, created by former racing driver Nelson Philippe.

Setting the stage
The picnic’s setting is no coincidence: the Furka Pass, an Alpine route that’s become the stuff of cinematic legends ever since Aston Martin and James Bond sped along it (in Goldfinger, if you recall). It is here, suspended between sky and rocky mountain, that a few dozen carefully selected guests gather around exceptional cars — collectors, brand executives, partners and friends. There’s no artificial staging, no racing, no podiums nor spotlights: here, it is about truly experiencing the moment, while enjoying reimagined Alpine gastronomy straight from wicker baskets, just as it used to be. Tables, chairs, porcelain and champagne flutes — it’s pure and elegant simplicity.

“Luxury is no longer limited to owning, rather to living, to feeling and to sharing rare moments.” This personal leitmotif has guided Nelson Philippe in shaping the backbone of this exceptional picnic. “A moment of connection, emotion and authenticity”, declares the former driver. A delightful aperitif of sorts, heralding the main course.

Eclectica takes on a new dimension
This year already marks a special anniversary; a candle to blow out and “a moment of confirmation”. 2026 marks five years since the first edition of Eclectica took place, when only a handful of car enthusiasts and fine vehicles gathered in the heart of Crans-Montana. They were gleaming, roaring, vintage and revolutionary, spanning shades of red, green, yellow and beyond. They were invariably distinguished, with a few oddballs amongst the invitees (whose lineage or histories warranted an invitation, of course). In short, the full spectrum of legendary classic cars was on display, in a spirit that was “far from competitive and fully respectful of the region,” notes Nelson Philippe.

Just five years later, this annual gathering is on the verge of becoming a local institution. This milestone is also accompanied by a new appellation, as the event has officially been renamed the Eclectica International Motor Show. “We are moving from a weekend-focused event to an international platform that spans more days, more brands and more experiences. Eclectica has become a true open-air motor show, all while staying true to its emotional and artistic DNA,” adds Nelson Philippe.

“A place, an energy, an emotion”
Following several press and VIP days, the 2026 edition will open to the public from 24 to 26 July. The event will be spread between Rue du Prado (for the Concours d’Élégance), the Sporting Club parking lot (for brand partners) and several beautiful natural sites. Ferrari, Porsche, Maserati, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz — the greatest names in four-wheeled luxury have answered the call, supported by a rich industry-specific ecosystem.

Why here and why now? Nelson Philippe enthusiastically answers: “We chose to have our event in summer because there are no other major automotive events happening at that time, and, above all, because it’s the ideal time of year here to bring these vehicles out of hibernation.” The roads are open, the mountains spring to life and the summer holidays sing with the promise of getaways. “Classic cars are not meant to remain stationary; they deserve to be driven. And to be driven in places as majestic as the Swiss Alps, on fantastic roads, in a fantastic environment,” explains the founder of Eclectica.

“The pleasure of driving”
This, ultimately, is what best distinguishes the Eclectica International Motor Show (EIMS) from other European car gatherings: it’s founded on a desire to take the wheel and enjoy the sheer pleasure of driving. “You don’t come to just see the cars, you come to experience them” — in a unique blend of luxury, culture and motoring — adds Nelson Philippe.

His goal? “To make the EIMS the leading summer automotive event in Europe — far from enclosed halls — set on legendary roads within striking landscapes.” To achieve that, Crans-Montana has everything it needs to shift into overdrive.

automobileclubcm.com