Driving to the Algarve in an Electric Vehicle
IS IT FEASIBLE TO DRIVE AN EV TO VILA DO OURO? ABSOLUTELY
More and more guests at Vila do Ouro are choosing to travel to the Algarve in their own car. It’s not a huge number yet, but it’s steadily growing. Around 2,400 kilometers, a few days on the road—and you’re here.
From your front door to the gates of Vila do Ouro, flying takes about six to seven hours. So why drive?
The advantages are clear: you can bring more than you could on a plane, you get to see parts of Europe along the way, you save on rental car costs, and flying is becoming increasingly expensive. Especially when traveling with others, driving can be more economical. And if you have a comfortable car, the journey becomes part of your holiday.
Even with an electric vehicle, it’s doable. Just ask Dutchman Richard van der Leeden from Gorinchem, who drove 2600 km from Holland to Vila do Ouro last summer with his family in a 2020 Kia E-Niro (64 kWh).
Richard shares his experience
“Driving electric is a mindset. Before taking a trip like this, it helps to have some EV ‘flight hours’ under your belt. That way, you’re more relaxed about any hiccups. After all, it’s your holiday—you want to avoid unnecessary stress.”
What to bring
“A relaxed attitude, a charging card with European coverage, a credit card, your smartphone, a charging cable for public stations, and a granny charger for regular outlets. That last one charges slowly, but it can save you in a pinch.”
Planning the trip
“There are plenty of charging stations along Europe’s highways, so you don’t need a rigid plan. But having a rough idea helps. I used the ABRP app to combine charging stops with lunch or dinner at nice spots—much better than the usual fast-food joints.”
Charging cards and apps
“Choose a card with a good app. Often you can start charging directly through the app without needing the physical card. Try a few—it’s fun to mix things up.”
Charging curve and battery management
“Every EV has its own charging curve. The Fastned app shows how quickly your car charges at different battery levels. I usually charge up to 80%, since it slows down after that. And I always keep 15–20% in reserve, so I can reach the next station stress-free if there’s a glitch.”
Charging in Portugal
“Portugal is a bit of an outlier when it comes to charging cards. Many Dutch cards don’t work here. Luckily, some highway stations accept credit cards. I used the Miio app: you link your credit card, charge without a subscription, and see the price upfront. Super transparent.”
Charging at Vila do Ouro
“There are fast chargers at Aldi Ferreiras and Intermarché Ferreiras—perfect while shopping. And Vila do Ouro now offers solar-powered charging. Just ask Joris and Linda about the options.”
Summary
It’s absolutely possible to drive your EV to the Algarve in two to three days. Take your time and make the journey part of your holiday. Vila do Ouro has a solar-powered charging station, and there are fast chargers nearby in Paderne and Ferreiras. Charging takes some planning, but with a bit of flexibility, it’s easy to manage.
Richard’s extra tips
“Use apps like Chargemap or ABRP to plan your route and charging stops. Book accommodations with charging options along the way. Bring a charging card that works across multiple countries. Make sure your travel insurance includes EV roadside assistance. And consider a stopover in Bordeaux, Zaragoza, or Seville—great charging infrastructure and great cities.”
Thank you, Richard, for sharing your experience and tips. As an extra tip for British travellers: in summer you can take the ferry from Plymouth to Santander. You don’t have to go all the way through France.
Do you have an EV and are considering the drive to Vila do Ouro? We’re happy to help you plan. Feel free to send us a message.
