Came across this thread a while back:
http://forums.pelicanparts.com/off-topic-discussions/710624-my-september-2012-road-trip-through-europe.html
As far as the ring goes, driving it on a simulator like Forza (xbox) or Gran Turismo (PS3) a few times will give you a feel for it. I have driven many laps on Forza and still don't know every corner yet. It is open to the public though and just about anyone can drive or ride their motorcycle on it. Might want to take the ring taxi but only if Sabine Schmitz is your driver.
Have fun...