Experience the ultimate no-frills summer break in style with Volkswagen’s modern twist on the iconic ‘hippy’ camper van. Plug in and chill out as you embark on a journey of relaxation and adventure.
As the first journalist to test drive the UK’s only all-electric version of the classic VW campervan, I can attest to the attention-grabbing power of its snazzy design and vibrant yellow-and-white paintwork. Strangers can’t help but point and give approving thumbs up as we pass by. Even at traffic lights, families in neighboring cars can’t resist the van’s charm.
This electric marvel lives up to its reputation. Like most electric vehicles, the VW ID Buzz is smooth, swift, and incredibly quiet. With a range of over 200 miles between charges, it’s the ideal companion for a weekend getaway to South Wales’s picturesque Gower Peninsula.
My partner gives me a quick once-over, taking in my short, grey hair and neatly pressed shirt and shorts. She playfully rolls her eyes, acknowledging that we may no longer be in our freewheelin’ prime. However, with the trendiest van in tow, lent to us by an electric campervan specialist boasting “the most nature-friendly travel experience in the world,” we’re ready for our stylish adventure.
Arriving at the Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park campsite in Penmaen, Gower, we’re greeted with breathtaking beach views and a stunning landscape adorned with rocky pinnacles. A meandering river flows through sand dunes towards castle ruins nestled in a picturesque wooded valley.
Once parked, I plug the van into an ordinary electric socket at our pitch. It takes about 12 hours to charge up to 80% capacity, but a fast charger can do the same in just 30 minutes. If needed, we can easily locate a charging station using the Zapmap App, which shows one available just four miles away.
Fully embracing the campervan fantasy, we spend an evening collecting driftwood and gather around a crackling campfire. Yet, I can’t help but wonder if our woodsmoke is offsetting the environmental gains we achieved during our journey.
As an ex-Top Gear road-tester, I’m aware that new vehicles often have their fair share of glitches. True to form, the internal ceiling lights flicker on and off throughout the night, creating a slightly disconcerting ambiance. We make do by pulling towels over our heads as we sleep on the cosy fold-down bed.
The campervan boasts its own eco-friendly touches, including a solar panel on the roof that slowly recharges a battery powering the small fridge and hob. Interior panels are insulated with sustainable sheep’s wool, while bedding and furniture are crafted from bamboo.
Equipped with a sink, pans, kettle, and cutlery, the van provides all the essentials for a comfortable camping experience. For added convenience, extras such as a portable toilet tent, folding table, chairs, and travel toaster are available.
While you may not be able to stand up inside, the joy of sipping a cuppa or doing the washing up with a picturesque seaside view more than compensates for the lack of headroom.
Embark on your own no-frills summer adventure and discover why Volkswagen’s modern take on the iconic ‘hippy’ camper van is the perfect choice for an eco-friendly and stylish getaway.
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