Faaker See: European Enthusiast Ride Destination

Biggest Rally

For a moment it sounded like Brad Richards dropped an expletive during Further. Faster.—Harley-Davidson's 2022 new model release video. That was not the case. The Vice President of Styling & Design was simply referring to Faaker See—Europe's biggest motorcycle rally, held annually in the picturesque alpine town of Faak am See, just south of Lake Faak in the Austrian Carinthia region.

Annual Attendees

Along with Daytona Beach and Sturgis, Richards included Faaker See in his shortlist of must-attend rallies. Scheduled in early September, the destination event was first held in 1998 and routinely kicks off European Bike week. While not quite comparable to the half-million annual attendees at Sturgis, Faaker See attracts well over a hundred thousand riders every year.

Party Activities

Faaker See is an official Harley-Davidson event, with representation from most of their European dealerships. Sometimes called a biker-style Oktoberfest, the week-long party-like atmosphere can be a bit overwhelming for first-timers. Food, drinks, and live music are in abundance. Custom shows and demo rides are also on offer while browsing the vendor booths completes the in-town activities.

Secret Routes

Listed as one of the best H.O.G. rallies on offer, Faaker See attracts enthusiasts from all over the world. Without a doubt, the incomparable riding is the main attraction. From leisurely lake cruises to the challenging hairpin bends of the Alpenstrasse, the Kärnten and Alpe Adria H.O.G. Chapters conduct numerous guided tours, even revealing secret routes that would be almost impossible to discover alone.

Cheering Stars

If riding in the unparalleled beauty of the southern Alps is not fulfilling enough, there is a parade. Approximately 10,000 bikes make up a winding cavalcade that rolls through spectacular countryside and towns alike. In an almost incredulous response, cheering and appreciative crowds pack every vantage point, making all riders feel like rock stars for a day.

Early Options

Accommodations for rally-bound riders are numerous. They range from hotels and private houses to local campsites. With just a short and picturesque commute, the nearby towns are also a viable, and perhaps, quieter option. Seasoned Faaker See attendees often get budget-minded rooms just across the border in neighboring Slovenia. Either way, it is recommended to book early, no matter the lodging.

Back On

Like most plans in 2020, Faaker See was canceled due to global pandemic restrictions. The disappointing news was doubly-so because, despite being dogged by poor weather the year before, the 2019 Faaker See had been a banner event, with many added features and venues. It took until June 2021, before Harley-Davidson was able to announce that European Bike Week was back on.

Attend Ride

Whether it is the lure of the party, or the appeal of idyllic mountain riding, the 2022 iteration of Faaker See and the subsequent European Bike Week promises to have something for everyone. For international enthusiasts wanting to attend and ride, bike rentals are available from many European dealerships. More information can be obtained through the 'Authorized Rentals' section of Harley-Davidson's website.

>>Join in the conversation about Faaker See right here in Harley-Davidson Forums.

For help with your do-it-yourself maintenance and repair projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.