Ireland’s motorcycle and music extravaganza, Ireland BikeFest, is an experience bike enthusiasts should not miss.
Taking place 30 May to 1 June in the stunning setting of Killarney on the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland BikeFest is a unique blend of events that attracts thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world.
Now a flagship fixture in the motorcycle calendar, the festival is known for its inclusive and festive ambiance, welcoming bikers and non-bikers alike to enjoy the vibrant carnival atmosphere, stellar line-up of music and entertainment, demo rides, a custom bike competition and ride-outs along the celebrated coastline of the Wild Atlantic Way.
The main hub of activity will once again be the Bike Village in the grounds of the Gleneagle Hotel. This is where the impressive programme of top tribute bands, DJs and local rock musicians will perform, striking up daily at noon and carrying on into the wee small hours.
The Bike Village will also host a full fleet of Harley-Davidson demo bikes for those who want to experience the exhilaration of riding out on one of these iconic machines, along with a range of food and merchandise stands. For those who don’t have a motorcycle licence or have never ridden before, the JumpStart™ motorcycle simulator provides all the thrill of the ride in a completely safe environment.
The grand parade of motorcycles through the streets of Killarney on Sunday will this year feature comedy superstar John Bishop as Grand Marshall. The Liverpudlian comedian is currently touring the Wild Atlantic Way by motorcycle, performing shows along the way. And on Sunday afternoon, the popular Custom Bike Show will award prizes to the best customised bikes in attendance.
The spectacular scenery of the Ring of Kerry and Ireland’s Atlantic coastline provides the perfect backdrop for the festival, and guided Wild Atlantic Way ride-outs on Friday and Saturday allow bikers to ride some of the island’s most scenic routes.
After a busy day in the saddle, festival goers looking for accommodation in the area will find a wealth of choice, including several luxury options.
Five-star Muckross Park Hotel & Spa (remove ampersand, should be ‘and’, in hotel name) sits within the breathtaking Killarney National Park and offers luxurious accommodation in an eighteenth-century stately house, as well as fine dining and all the indulgence of an award-winning Gothic-inspired spa.
Meanwhile, the family-run Lake Hotel combines elegance with warmth offering traditional Irish hospitality in a magnificent lakeside setting. And a short bike ride up into the hills will take you to Aghadoe Heights, a five-star luxury resort overlooking the famous Lakes of Killarney. (both hotel’s USP here is lakes – make remove from one? Looks same-y).
There are many more options in and around Killarney, a picturesque town which will be buzzing with activity during the festival, with no shortage of eateries and nightclubs catering to the biking community.
