Banger rally -- why such a route?

[AlexB]

At Parker's they are discussing the Barcelona Bangers Rally 2008, which starts in Calais, goes down south to Monaco and Nice, then further West to Spain. What I don't understand is why they are travelling on motorways? The second day is particularly boring: Lyon to Nice going around the Alps. I drove there recently. It is just a motorway! It would be so much fun to go as I did. I went up the Alps, to Briancon, then Barcelonette, Allos and Entrevaux. In Entrevaux I set up my GPS to Grasse by the shortest route, across mountains. It was remarkably good -- narrow roads, serpentine and low gears all the way. And what a scenery!

Those who have not been there please have a look at Google maps and satellite pictures. Please write if you want to see the photographs I've taken. Who knows, maybe someone will decide to repeat my adventure... Please reply now, as starting the next week I'll be away.