Harrie Smetsers
In the “In the spotlight” section we interview our participants. Who is behind the wheel? We take you into the world of these car enthusiasts. Their stories and experiences offer an inspiring look at FancyCarTours.
Introduce yourself — who is Harrie?
Harrie Smetsers, 59, I am a self-employed entrepreneur with years of experience in concrete drilling and sawing. Under the name HSB BV I turned my craftsmanship into my profession. My life motto is: work hard, but enjoy even harder. My passion for cars started early, inspired by my now 91-year-old father, who restored many cars. One of the projects was my first car: an Opel Kadett Rally from 1965, my birth year. That special experience only strengthened my love of cars. I also love good food and drinks with nice friends and acquaintances. I enjoy life with my lovely partner Klaasje Oosterloo (my co-driver), my 2 children and our dog and our close friends. I know how to combine work and pleasure!
Work hard, but enjoy even harder
Harrie Smetsers
Which car(s) do you drive on the tour(s)?
Porsche Boxster 718 GTS 4.0
What is your ultimate dream car?
We started with the Porsche Boxster Black Edition from 2015. After five years we stepped up to a GT-silver Boxster 718 GTS. Now we drive our ultimate dream car: a Porsche 718 GTS 4.0 in the unique colour Aventurine Green. A car that perfectly matches our very sporty driving style and ambition.
How did you find FancyCarTours and what was your first edition?
Through a friend of ours, who tipped us about a drive to get away for a bit — and that was during COVID 2020. Klaasje was very busy in healthcare because of the pandemic and this was a relaxing drive. And from that moment we were sold on FancyCarTours.
Which edition is your favourite and why?
We have already been able to drive many beautiful rides. The ones that stand out for driving experience are: Scotland, Slovenia and the Dolomites. But the day trips were also well organised and top.
Which route or location impressed you most and why?
Scotland and the Dolomites; Scotland is a wonderfully beautiful landscape. And the route from location to location, each of which was fantastic. The camaraderie among everyone was also wonderful. With the small group you had nice contact with everyone.
Dolomites: my heart beats faster again while writing this. The routes were truly phenomenal, with breathtaking views and corners that made every drive an experience. The speed brought pure adrenaline, and some cars offered exactly that exciting challenge that completed the adventure.
What is your most unforgettable FancyCarTours moment?
In terms of driving, that was the Dolomites tour 2023. When it comes to camaraderie, that was Scotland 2024.
If you could design a route yourself, where would it go?
The Spanish coastline would also still seem wonderful to us.
Would you recommend FancyCarTours?
We have meanwhile become true ambassadors of FancyCarTours. Why? Because our motto is: “Just act normal, then you’re already crazy enough.” and that applies to every participant — everyone shares the same passion: driving. It doesn’t matter which car you bring, there’s no fuss, and camaraderie always comes first.
Everything is also arranged down to the last detail; you are fully taken care of. That’s why we keep promoting FancyCarTours with enthusiasm. Erwin, Shirley and the team also actively listen to participants and take any improvements into the next rides. That only makes every experience better!
Finally, what is your favourite photo (taken during a tour)?
That is the photo below, taken during the Scotland edition at one of the hotels.
