Hello Chris, bus and train both take about 4 hours so a car would be faster if you put your foot down you could do it in 3 hours as it is mostly motorway.

Dave

Cost wise I think the train is best, about 25 euros each way first class, and if you stay overnight there is usually a discount - 20% when we did it a couple of years ago. It's very comfortable and efficient and you get to gaze out of the window at some lovely countryside.

Obviously the car gives you the freedom, but with tolls on the motorway and petrol cost probably is not that different (depending on how many are travelling, of course).

The drawback with the train is the station is about an eight euro cab ride from central Albufeira.

Many thanks for your replies....