Donegal Motor Club Hillclimb

The Danny Gormley Memorial Hillclimb is one of the most atmospheric motorsport events in Ireland, held on the Knockalla Coast Road in north Donegal - a stretch of tarmac that rally fans around the world recognise on sight. Each September the Donegal Motor Club brings competitors and several thousand spectators to this exposed clifftop road above Ballymastoker Bay, where cars run against the clock on one of the most dramatic and challenging hill routes in the country. If you have any interest in motorsport, this is the kind of event that stays with you.

What to expect

The hillclimb runs over two days - Saturday and Sunday - with first runs getting underway from around 10:30am each morning. Competitors tackle the Knockalla course in timed runs, and the variety of vehicle classes is broad: everything from production road cars at the accessible end to purpose-built hillclimb specials. The popular J1000 class gives younger drivers the chance to compete on a course that has hosted decades of serious motorsport. Live commentary from Chris Fair keeps the crowd informed throughout the runs. The event is genuinely family-friendly - food stalls and music run alongside the racing action. A spectator bus shuttles people to the main viewing area above the famous Wilhare’s Bend, where you get a proper view of the cars working hard on the steepest section of the course. Entry for spectators is from €15.

Getting there

Knockalla is on the Fanad Peninsula in north-west Donegal, roughly an hour’s drive north of Letterkenny. From Letterkenny take the R245 towards Milford and Portsalon, following signs for Knockalla and Ballymastoker Bay. The roads narrow considerably as you approach the hillclimb, so allow extra time and follow any marshalling instructions. Public transport to this area is limited - a car is the practical option for most visitors. Parking is available near the base of the hill and along the course road; arrive early on both days as the area fills up quickly.

While you’re in Donegal

Ballymastoker Bay below the Knockalla road is regularly listed among Ireland’s finest beaches, and a walk along the strand before the first runs of the day is a good way to start the morning. The Fanad Peninsula itself is worth half a day - the lighthouse at Fanad Head is a short drive north and the views across Lough Swilly on the return are hard to beat. There is more to see in Donegal and across Co. Donegal.

Good to know

• Dates: Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 September 2026
• Start time: 10:30am each day (first runs)
• Price: From €15 spectator admission
• Booking / info: Check Motorsport Ireland or the Donegal Motor Club social channels for entry lists and any schedule updates
• Getting around on site: A spectator bus runs to the main viewing point above Wilhare’s Bend - use it rather than walking the active course road