Guide
Motorhome Routes from the Spanish Border into the Algarve
Written by the operator at Alentejo Park
·Updated January 2025
Most motorhomes entering Portugal from Spain cross at the Guadiana river between Ayamonte (ES) and Vila Real de Santo António (PT). The bridge crossing takes thirty seconds. From there, three routes open up depending on your destination and pace.
Route 1: The A22 direct
Distance from the border to Faro: 65km. Time: 45 minutes. The A22 is a dual carriageway with hard shoulders. It is tolled. The route passes through Castro Marim (where Alentejo Park is located, 5 minutes from the junction) and runs along the back of the Ria Formosa before reaching the regional capital at Faro. This is the fastest option and the most practical first or last night stop of any Algarve trip.
Route 2: The N122 north through the Guadiana valley
Distance: 100km to Mértola. Time: 90 minutes. This route follows the Guadiana river north into the Alentejo interior, reaching the spectacular medieval town of Mértola. The road is good and mostly empty. Mértola has a free aire at the river with a dump station. From Mértola you can continue north to the Alentejo region or return south to the Algarve via the N2 — itself one of the most scenic roads in Portugal.
Route 3: The N125 coastal road
Distance from the border to Tavira: 28km. Time: 40 minutes. The N125 is the old coast road and passes through Castro Marim, Monte Gordo, Manta Rota, and Cacela Velha before reaching Tavira. In summer it is slow and congested through the resort areas. Outside peak season it is one of the most pleasant drives in the Algarve — low speed, sea views, and market towns every few kilometres.
Looking for a place to stop in the eastern Algarve?
Alentejo Park is 5 minutes from the A22 junction at Castro Marim. Twelve pitches, full hookup, free dump station for guests. →Source: ACP — Automóvel Clube de Portugal (road information)