The III. Balkan Rally, the largest classic car and motorcycle race in the region, set off with 52 cars, 34 motorcycles, and nearly 160 participants from 14 different countries. Organized for the third time by GoBeyond Travel Agency, the race takes drivers on a breathtaking journey across four countries in eight days, with a variety of challenges along the way.
This year’s grand opening took place at the Budapest University of Technology and Economics on September 6th. In addition to the participating vehicles, rare gems such as the legendary 1931 Ford A model and the famous Ikarus 66 “Faros” bus were on display along the university’s riverbank.
Levente Trellay, one of the rally’s founders, highlighted in his speech that rallies towards Balkan destinations are not a new concept in Hungary; in the early 20th century, drivers embarked on similar routes between Budapest and Constantinople. “With this event, we are reviving a longstanding tradition that celebrates both competitive spirit and community,” he emphasized. He further explained that, once upon a time, car travel was an experience in itself, not merely a means of transportation. While modern car manufacturing has diminished this mindset, older vehicles still convey this sense of purpose and aesthetic, which is a core mission of the Balkan Rally.
János Benjámin Vértes, the CEO of GoBeyond and co-founder of the rally, spoke about the company’s 15 years of experience in designing extraordinary adventure travel experiences around the world. “We’ve taken our clients to the peaks of the Himalayas, the border between Panama and Colombia, and the deserts of Tanzania, ensuring they could safely live the most unforgettable experiences of their lives,” he said. He also highlighted the company’s other area of expertise: organizing high-profile conferences and incentive trips for B2B partners, including events in destinations like Georgia, Iceland, and Oman. The combination of these two distinct areas of expertise—adventure travel and complex, meticulously planned operations—has made the Balkan Rally possible. “For the third time, participants have placed their trust in us, enjoying unique adventures while we take care of every detail behind the scenes,” he concluded.
The official race start on Sunday took place at the stunning Wenckheim Castle in Szabadkígyós, providing a fitting backdrop for the exclusive vehicles. From there, competitors traveled through the southern regions of Hungary and Serbia, arriving in Belgrade. The route will take them to Kopaonik, Serbia’s ski paradise, and through Montenegro’s most infamous mountain passes in the Dinaric Alps, before finishing in the breathtaking Bay of Kotor, where a grand gala event will celebrate the completion of the rally.
The Balkan Rally is confirmed to return in 2025, with the route stretching from Budapest to Dubrovnik along the Adriatic coast. Early-bird registration is available until September 15th at the following link:
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