Balkan Rally

6-13 SEPTEMBER 2024 ADD-ON: 14-15
THE MOST AUTHENTIC CAR AND MOTORCYCLE RALLY FROM BUDAPEST TO THE BAY OF KOTOR.

AS YOU DRIVE, THE STORY EVOLVES AND BECOMES MORE AND MORE EXCITING…

YOU WILL BE A PART OF THE GREAT BALKAN RALLY. A REAL SECRET MISSION WITH YOUR VEHICLE WHILE YOU DISCOVER THE HIDDEN TREASURES OF THE BALKANS.

THE RALLY

A challenging 7-day adventure-filled open-road, motorsport endurance race, discovering the scenic routes of the Balkan with a classic automobile or motorbike through 4 countries’ stunning landscapes, from Budapest downtown all the way to the Adriatic coast. Race against the clock whilst solving challenges along the way,

travelling back in time in your classic vehicle and re-living the golden days of the Balkan. Connect with fellow minded enthusiasts over delicious, locally inspired meals and fun-filled evening events, ending with a magnificent gala night in the luxurious Lazure Hotel & Marina in Herceg Novi overlooking the Adriatic sea.

THE ROUTE

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The machine

Any vehicle that was designed before 1990 or is a custom-built one can apply to participate in the rally. Furthermore the application for the Balkan Rally will be approved by our expert judges.

If your vehicle was designed after 1990 but you believe that it is special in any way and would be a good fit for the Balkan Rally, please send us some photos and our expert judge will review it in a few days.

The goal of our prudent approval process is to celebrate and relive the golden days of motor racing in the most authentic way.

Veteran

The majority of the fleet are vehicles from 1990 or before, of which few were produced, or have special features, or were created by famous designers, or have historical facts to prove their legendary status.

Effet de Surprise

Vehicles that do not fit into the classic category, but that show something special or new to the jury. The jury will reward the creativity of each entrant with this licence.

Modern Classic

Vehicles, mostly motorcycles, that follow a traditional silhouette and vintage design. E.g. Triumph Speed Twin, Yamaha XSR series, etc.

Wingman

Car owners who don't have a car that fits into any of the categories but want to experience the atmosphere of a veteran race, in exchange for help with transport and can enter for Fair Play and Perfect Gear only prizes.

THE JUDGES

Péter Guld

photographer/journalist

Péter is a widely known and acknowledged member of both the Hungarian but also the international motorsport journalism scene for over ten years now . Péter has travelled the world to cover prestigious events, such as the St Moritz ICE race on the frozen lake or the Isle of Man TT. His reports are accompanied by his own photography of the events. He got captivated by motorsports at the age of four once he saw a Kenny Roberts photo in the Motorsport book leaning in on his bike with the beautifully designed race number plate and his feet dragging on the ground.

Adrián Bernáth

award-winning motor film producer

Adrián Bernáth is one of the founding members of Turbometal, an independent car filmmaker and blogger company producing out of this world movies of unbelievable adventures with cars and motorbikes. Each of their movies has a different story but they all have one thing in common, zero compromise, they are willing to do even the impossible if it results in a good cut. In 2016 they won the title for Best Journalism at the London Motor Film Festival beating Top Gear competing in the same category.

Levente Trellay

race director

Besides the Balkan Rally, our race director is the founder behind many community-shaping motorsport events. Levi is a prominent figure in the Hungarian new wave motorcycle society. He picked out his first motorbike at the age of 6 and has been collecting them for three decades which collection features several unique pieces.

Itinerary

OPENING CEREMONY

Friday, 6th September

Budapest

On Friday afternoon, we welcome you all in Budapest for the official Opening Ceremony, press conference and driver’s meeting of the 2024 Balkan Rally. We’ll hand out race kits, decorate the cars and toast to an unforgettable week ahead. Attendance is mandatory for all competitors. Reach out to us if you need help with accommodation for the opening night.

THE PRELUDE

SATURDAY, 7. SEPTEMBER

Szabadkígyós-Mórahalom

From Budapest, everyone will depart at their own pace, and we’ll be waiting for you with a delicious lunch in the garden of the magnificent Wenckheim Castle in Szabadkígyós. After lunch, the prologue starts to give everyone a chance to practice before the first competition stage the following day. The finish will be in Mórahalom, where our exclusive hotel with several thermal pools and saunas will be waiting for us.

LEG 1

SUNDAY, 8. SEPTEMBER

Mórahalom - Belgrade
217 km

The adventure unfolds as we venture into Serbia, where the enchanting vibes of the Balkans seize our senses right from the start. This leg of the race promises to be the most accessible, guiding us through the picturesque Serbian plains and straight into the pulsating heart of the nation — historic Belgrade.

Our abode for the nigh will be the luxurious Metropol Palace, originally built in 1956 but since completely renovated and modernized, while still preserving its rich history and timeless charm. Each room and suite are beautifully designed with attention to detail and features luxurious amenities, ensuring that guests have a comfortable and memorable stay. After a delicious meal you will have the option to either relax in the late night spa, or dive head first into the steaming Balkan nightlife.

LEG 2

MONDAY, 9. SEPTEMBER

Belgrade - Kopaonik
290 km

We will set off on a captivating drive from the vibrant city vibes, as winding roads weave through Serbia’s enchanting villages, guiding us southward to the largest ski resort in Southeast Europe. With each ascent in elevation, anticipate a mesmerizing transformation in the landscape. The sparsely populated towns will gradually yield to the presence of majestic evergreen pines, and the once long, straight sections of the road will give way to exhilarating and challenging turns, adding a dynamic twist to the journey.

The day’s finale will await at an impressive altitude of 1650 meters above sea level, nestled on the Kopaonik plateau—the crown jewel of the country, boasting the most breathtaking national park and premier ski resort. Our 5-star luxury hotel for the night will ease you back to tranquility, indulge in it’s all-season pools, wind down with a soak with luxury bath amenities or simply enjoy the quiet comforts where you will awaken to the breathtaking panorama of mountain views, embracing the serenity that surrounds you.

LEG 3

TUESDAY, 10. SEPTEMBER

Kopaonik - Kolasin
214 km

Venturing onto scenic mountain roads, we’ll wind through the landscape adorned with elegant pine trees along our route. We’ll traverse charming small mountain villages, catching glimpses of mosques and djamis along the way. Anticipate a truly evergreen day of exploration, immersing you in the timeless beauty of the landscape. After a day of serpentines, your reward will be waiting for you in Kolasin’s Bianca Resort sporting unique brutalist architecture and high-class amenities.

The gathering of vehicles in the hotel’s car park has become a cherished Balkan Rally tradition, where you can anticipate the sight of beer taps flowing, your favorite tunes resonating from the speakers, all in celebration of the day’s endeavors. It’s an evening designed to revel in the camaraderie of fellow drivers, offering a chance to unwind and connect in the spirit of shared experiences.

LEG 4

WEDNESDAY, 11. SEPTEMBER

Kolasin - Kolasin
274 km

Indeed, you read it correctly—there’s no mistake in the starting and ending points. This day will be a round trip, beginning and concluding at our favorite regional hotel, making it a true test of endurance. As you navigate through the challenging turns of the Durmitor mountains, maintaining your composure—or, at the very least, your engine’s—will be key. The route will aim to lead you back to Montenegro’s premier ski resort nestled at an altitude of 954 meters. Be prepared for narrow roads sans hard shoulders, demanding the full spectrum of your driving skills. Yet, the ultimate challenge will lie in keeping your focus on the road amidst the breathtaking views that will unfold before you.

The rally’s course will guide you around Dormitor’s loftiest peak, Bobotov Kuk, an awe-inspiring presence at 2523 m. You will be captivated by the panoramic views of the plateaus within the national park. As the evening descends, savor a sumptuous buffet dinner complemented by the soothing sounds of the Tara River—a fitting conclusion to an exhilarating day of rally adventures.

LEG 5

THURSDAY, 12. SEPTEMBER

Kolasin - Herceg Novi

On the last day we will journey from Kolasin to the magnificent Bay of Kotor, maneuvering through the 31 turns of the picturesque P1 road. Additionally, we will have the option to embark on a ferry ride across the bay to reach the historic village of Herceg Novi.

Our esteemed host for the night, the Lazure Marina and Hotel, is a beacon of luxury—an enchanting establishment boasting its own beachfront and marina. This haven will set the stage for the gala and awards ceremony, where the trophies for the Balkan Rally 2024 will be presented, culminating in an evening of celebration and recognition.

THE ENCORE

FRIDAY, 13. SEPTEMBER

Herceg Novi - Brac

Not ready to end the adventure just yet? Opt for the ADRIATIC PREMIUM RACE package, and join the encore ride along the scenic route home. This extension adds another day to your BALKAN RALLY, allowing you to unwind on the Dalmatian coast, basking in the afternoon sun and savoring a picturesque sunset on the beach.

Following a farewell brunch in Kotor, our journey continues to Croatia. Nestled in a stylish sea-side hotel, you’ll have the perfect environment to relax and relish the seaside ambiance. Cap off the day with a Dalmatian dinner, sharing rally experiences with newfound friends in this coastal haven.

THE COOL DOWN

SATURDAY, 14. SEPTEMBER

Brac - Lake Plitvize

For the first time ever, the Adriatic Premium Package includes an additional night. This extra night will be spent at Lake Plitvice in Croatia, in cosy luxury chalets. Dinner, with a selection of local specialities, will conclude in the wine cellar, where the house wines and liqueurs will be a fitting complement to the end of our 8 day adventure together.

THE RACE

The overall score is determined by three crucial factors: adherence to the recommended route, precision in arrival time achieved through solving logical challenges, and the successful capture of checkpoints using a Fuji Instax camera. Any deviations from these criteria will result in point deductions, which can be offset by successfully completing the bonus photo challenges. We will be awarding titles in the following categories:

The Perfect Gear

Elected by a weighted vote of our expert judges and all the drivers during the gala night, the team competing with the perfect mindset, a head to toe representation of what Balkan Rally is all about. This could be anything from a perfectly shined vehicle everyday through dressing up to match your car’s era to arriving with a full team branding.

Balkan Rally 2024 Winner

The overall winning team of the rally. The team completing the rally with the most perfect time and solving all the challenges. Timing is everything, a challenging task considering the vehicle’s age and the varying road conditions.

Fair Play

Nominated and selected by all the drivers participating in the race during the gala night, the Fair Play title will be up for a vote and will go to the applicant who was the most helpful and considerate to their fellow competitors throughout the rally.

Rally packages

All prices are per person, based on double occupancy for rooms. Car competitors will enjoy the camaraderie of sharing rooms with their teammates, while motorcycle participants will have the opportunity to share accommodations with a fellow rider who shares similar interests. For those seeking solo accommodations, explore our add-ons. Feel free to reach out for personalized arrangements or alternative vehicle and passenger combinations; we’re here to assist you in creating the ideal experience.

The essential package, where you say farewell the next day after the closing ceremony, and drive home at your own pace.

• Opening Ceremony
• 6 nights of accommodation in 4* or 5* luxury hotels with spa during the race
• Regional, gourmet delicacies with half-board food arrangement
(Lunches are self-catered)
• Race entry fee
• Rally kit and itinerary
• Commemorative poster
• Secure overnight parking
• Luggage hold for motorcyclists
• Premium merchandize

star star star

€ 2190 until 31 Dec 2023

€ 2390 from 1 Jan 2024

Head home with us and add two extra nights to your holiday, one on the Dalmatian coast and one in Plitvice Lakes National Park.

• Opening Ceremony
• 6+2 nights of accommodation in 4* or 5* luxury hotels with spa
• Regional, gourmet delicacies with half-board food arrangement
(Lunches are self-catered)
• Race entry fee
• Rally kit and itinerary
• Commemorative poster
• Secure overnight parking
• Luggage hold for motorcyclists
• Premium merchandize
• Guided drive home on a scenic route through Croatia
• Extra 2 nights with half board on the island of Brac and at Plitvice Lakes

star star star star

€ 2490 until 31 Dec 2023

€ 2690 from 1 Jan 2024

Choose this package if you prefer to fly home the day after the closing ceremony and have your vehicle delivered to your door. Contact us for recommended flight options.

• Opening Ceremony
• 6 nights of accommodation in 4* or 5* luxury hotels with spa during the race
• Regional, gourmet delicacies with half-board food arrangement
(Lunches are self-catered)
• Race entry fee
• Rally kit and itinerary
• Commemorative poster
• Secure overnight parking
• Luggage hold for motorcyclists
• Premium merchandize
• Secured vehicle delivery to Budapest
• Airport transfer to Tivat/Dubrovnik airports

star star star star star

€ 2790 until 31 Dec 2023

€ 2990 from 1 Jan 2024

ADD-ONS

Single Room Occupancy

Balkan Race € 490
Adriatic Premium Race € 590

Rally package prices are per person based on double occupancy for rooms. Opt for this add-on for your private room throughout the race.

Accommodation in Budapest for the Opening night

If you are arriving from the countryside or abroad and would like to stay near the venue on the evening of the opening in Budapest (Friday 6 September 2024), please let us know and we can arrange a discounted accommodation for a surcharge.

The race of your dreams - classic vehicles in a unique setting with a dash of elegance and a bucketful of nostalgia

Race entry


The rally is not a roadtrip but a race. All participating vehicles will be subject to a pre-approval by our expert judge.


1

ENQUIRY
Call us, Email us or use the form below

2

RACE ENTRY APPLICATION
Submit your application for the race along with the vehicle's MOT and all applicable documentation as well as photos of the vehicle

3

RACE ENTRY CONFIRMATION
Secure your spot... once our expert judge approved the eligibility of your vehicle

4

Plane Tickets & Insurance
arrangement if needed

5

SECOND INSTALMENT
30 days before race start

6

BALKAN RALLY STARTS
We welcome you at the opening ceremony

GoBeyond Vienna: +43 660 552 2466
GoBeyond Budapest: +36 70 324 5254
hello@greatbalkanrally.com

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