Bringing together Barkas enthusiasts, vintage vehicle fans, and festival-goers, the Barkas Rally is set to hit Jászberény (Jászberény) next summer for a four-day extravaganza that’s anything but just another get-together. Scheduled from August 1 to August 3, 2025 (with an unofficial warm-up on July 31), the festival transforms the Szent András Thermal Bath (Szent András Gyógyfürdő) area into a celebration of retro rides, family fun, and live music. Previously known as the “Veteran Small Commercial Vehicle Meeting” (“Veterán Kishaszonjármű Találkozó”), this event has kept its loyal crowd while expanding to attract new faces of all ages.
Accommodation Options Galore
There’s no shortage of places to stay during the rally, whether you’re camping under the stars or seeking plush pillows. One standout is Kincsem Horse Park (Kincsem Lovaspark), about 37 miles from Budapest. Open year-round, this sprawling equestrian and event complex hosts everything from private retreats to team-building weekends and glittering weddings. The estate covers nearly 2,500 acres and boasts the famed Attila Hill (Attila-domb), rumored to have healing energies. With a variety of 2-, 3-, and 4-bed rooms—each equipped with showers and TVs—Kincsem has comfortable accommodations for 100 guests.
Step back in time at the 100-year-old Sun Prince Manor (Napkirályfi Udvarház) in Tápiószőlős, an aristocratic manor in the village center. Surrounded by untouched landscapes, birdsong, and rural hospitality, guests can unwind with hearty regional flavors and the warm welcome of the Visnyei family.
Verseg’s Pine Grove Castle Hotel (Fenyőharaszt Kastélyszálló) offers a different era, nestled in a 32-acre historic park. The neoclassical Podmaniczky Castle (Podmaniczky-kastély) has been carefully renovated to maintain its historical charm while offering 23 air-conditioned rooms and three external apartments—perfect for smaller wedding parties and those who crave an intimate, countryside escape.
Fairytale Castles and Unique Inns
Erdőtarcsa is famous for its “castle village” moniker, packed with Baroque and historic estates. The Szent-Miklóssy-Kubinyi Castle (Szent-Miklóssy-Kubinyi-kastély), built in 1870, is now a guesthouse and artists’ retreat, set among rose gardens and ponds in its own 7.5-acre private park.
For guests with royal tastes, there’s a luxury hotel in a Loire Valley-inspired castle, providing a magical backdrop for weddings and exclusive events. Every detail here is designed for special moments—and Instagram-worthy snaps.
In Isaszeg, the Battle Guesthouse and Restaurant (Csata Vendégház és Étterem) stands in the historic town center, offering a modern inn, restaurant, beer hall, and even a lottery outlet and gift shop under one roof. The vaulted wine cellar hosts up to 15 people for private tastings, while in summer, guests gather in the lush, flower-filled garden. Main events include class reunions, family celebrations, and company parties—often lasting late into the night.
From Rural Bliss to Retro Vibes
Pheasant Farmstead (Fácános Tanyaház), a countryside retreat rated with three sunflowers (Hungary’s rural accommodation rating), offers peace in a remote valley, far from the noise and bustle. If you want to trade city clamor for chirping birds and wide, green fields, this lodge is your go-to.
For a more down-to-earth stay, the Gaia Inn (Gaia Fogadó) provides friendly hospitality and budget-friendly rates. Meanwhile, Galgahévíz (Galgahévíz) takes the eco-village concept to a new level, having built a sustainable small town from scratch—not just reviving an old one.
Get ready for a full-on retro trip at Csintó, a venue dedicated to reviving the décor and spirit of the “Good Old Days” (“Régi Szép Idők”). It’s a favorite for corporate gatherings, weddings, or anyone who just wants a quirky, delicious meal.
Food and Drink to Satisfy Every Taste
There are 32 dining and tasting options around the rally. Monor’s Strázsa Hill (Strázsa-hegy), just 19 miles from Budapest, features a winery with stunning views, homemade dishes, and wine from local growers. The venue hosts events for up to 150—think family reunions, work parties, or just friends wanting a good time.
KultPince, Monor’s largest wine cellar (and event hall), fits groups up to 90 with hearty, warm food and its own parking lot. Meanwhile, the peaceful Golden Eagle Restaurant (Aranysas Étterem) in Jászberény seats 140, serving classic Hungarian fare in style, with space for big celebrations and a sun-drenched terrace for summer evenings.
Craving a perfectly grilled steak? Arizona Steak House in the heart of Jászberény features a varied menu, a choice of 18 whiskeys, a host of cocktails, and a cozy 100-seat seasonal terrace.
Jászberény’s top dining experiences offer a sensory journey with carefully paired wine lists, delicious aromas, curated music, and a setting designed to impress.
Pro Tips Before You Go
Looking for a homey tasting session? Several rural wineries in the area offer apple and wine pairings at communal country tables—everyone’s welcome, but booking is smart for larger groups.
When you need an escape, Dány’s local restaurant is the old faithful—music, dance, and reunion parties are all highlights among traditional homemade specialties and attentive, friendly service.
Don’t forget, organizers reserve the right to tweak the schedule or line-up—but that just adds a little extra excitement to the Barkas Rally experience!
