The event takes place on the same mountain roads that hosted the original Caramulo hill climb in the 1950s.
The Caramulo Museum collection includes rare pre-war vehicles, sports cars, and a significant collection of vintage motorcycles.
The festival creates a temporary 'historic paddock' where spectators can walk among the racing vehicles between sessions.
The event draws a mix of professional racing drivers and amateur classic car owners who participate in the timed hill climb.
The festival grounds are situated at an elevation of approximately 800 meters, offering views across the Dão region.
The Caramulo Motorfestival is an annual automotive event held in the mountain village of Caramulo, Portugal, centered around the historic Caramulo Museum. The event features a diverse program including a historic hill climb race, classic car rallies, and the static exhibition of the museum's extensive automobile collection. It is the largest motor festival in Portugal, attracting international collectors and automotive enthusiasts. The festival utilizes the winding roads of the Serra do Caramulo as a technical track for vintage racing. Beyond the vehicles, the event incorporates flea markets, miniature car collections, and various social activities for automotive enthusiasts. It serves as the primary fundraising event for the maintenance of the museum's private collection.
The hairpin turns along the hill climb circuit provide the best dynamic action shots of the vintage race cars.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the festival grounds involve navigating both paved roads and hilly terrain.
Carry layers of clothing, as mountain weather in the Serra do Caramulo can shift rapidly even during the summer.
Book local accommodation in the village months in advance, as the festival is the busiest weekend of the year for the area.
Do not attempt to drive the hill climb circuit during non-festival hours if the roads are open to regular traffic.
The festival occurs exclusively over one weekend annually in early September.
Maintain clear distance from the track barriers during the hill climb for safety; respect the barriers and marshals' instructions.
