{"id":833,"date":"2026-06-11T15:24:53","date_gmt":"2026-06-11T15:24:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.platts.co.uk\/blog\/?p=833"},"modified":"2026-06-11T15:24:53","modified_gmt":"2026-06-11T15:24:53","slug":"a-quiet-electric-escape-driving-the-suzuki-e-vitara-to-mottisfont-abbey","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.platts.co.uk\/blog\/2026\/06\/11\/a-quiet-electric-escape-driving-the-suzuki-e-vitara-to-mottisfont-abbey\/","title":{"rendered":"A Quiet Electric Escape: Driving the Suzuki e Vitara to Mottisfont Abbey"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

There\u2019s something wonderfully fitting about pairing a peaceful countryside destination with an equally calm and refined driving experience. Our recent trip from Marlow, Buckinghamshire, to the walled rose gardens at Mottisfont Abbey, near Romsey, Hampshire, did exactly that\u2014showing just how easy and stress-free an electric journey can be in the Suzuki e Vitara.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Setting Off from Marlow<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in Marlow, we set out on a relaxed route heading south via Newbury, enjoying a mix of motorway and scenic road A-road driving. The journey to Mottisfont Abbey is roughly 70 miles each way (about 140 miles round trip), which falls comfortably within the capabilities of a modern electric vehicle like the e Vitara.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the outset, the drive felt effortless. Electric driving has a way of smoothing out the journey\u2014quiet acceleration, no gear shifts, and a sense of calm that makes even longer trips feel lighter. There was no lingering concern about range; the car handled the distance with ease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Journey Without Range Anxiety<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the biggest misconceptions about electric vehicles is that they\u2019re only suited for short, local journeys. This trip proved otherwise. Even with a round trip approaching 140 miles, the Suzuki e Vitara<\/a> managed the distance comfortably, leaving us free to enjoy the drive rather than focus on battery levels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In fact, we could have completed the entire journey there and back without stopping to recharge. However, when we arrived at Mottisfont Abbey and saw the charging bays conveniently located right by the entrance, it was simply too good an opportunity to pass up. Being able to park so close made the decision an easy one–no long walk from a distant corner of the car park, combining convenience with a quick top-up while we explored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Charging Made Simple<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The charging experience itself was pleasantly straightforward. We were the only car using the charger at the time, which made the whole process feel even more relaxed\u2014no waiting, no queues, just plug in and go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Better still, the charger offered contactless payment. There was no need to download any apps, create accounts, or worry about phone compatibility. A simple tap of a card was all it took to get started, making the entire experience accessible and hassle-free\u2014particularly for anyone new to electric vehicles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Immersed in the Walled Rose Gardens<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the car charging just a short walk away, we stepped into one of Mottisfont Abbey\u2019s true highlights\u2014the famous walled rose gardens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

These gardens are unlike the formal, tightly structured rose displays you might expect. Instead, they feel relaxed, abundant, and beautifully natural. Mottisfont is renowned for its collection of old-fashioned roses\u2014varieties chosen as much for their fragrance as for their appearance. As you wander through the pathways, the scent alone is enough to slow you down and draw you in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The roses grow in a more informal, almost wild style, tumbling over arches, weaving through borders, and softening the walls that enclose the garden. There\u2019s a wonderful sense of depth and layering, with different varieties flowering in succession, meaning there is always something new to catch your eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pale blush pinks sit alongside deeper crimsons, creamy whites contrast with warm apricot tones, and every turn seems to reveal another picture-perfect view. Some blooms are delicately simple, while others are full and heavily petalled, giving the garden a rich, romantic feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Benches are thoughtfully placed throughout, inviting you to sit, pause, and simply take it all in. Bees drift lazily between flowers, the gentle hum adding to the tranquillity. It feels unhurried, timeless\u2014exactly the kind of experience that pairs so well with the quiet refinement of an electric drive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Beyond the roses, the wider grounds offer riverside walks and open spaces, but the walled garden remains the heart of the visit\u2014a place where colour, scent, and calm combine beautifully.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And all the while, it was reassuring to know the car was charging just outside\u2014effortlessly topping up while we enjoyed the surroundings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Drive Home<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After a relaxing visit, we returned to the e Vitara<\/a> refreshed and ready for the journey back to Marlow. The return drive was just as smooth and composed, rounding off the day perfectly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why This Trip Stands Out<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This journey highlighted just how practical and enjoyable electric travel has become:<\/p>\n\n\n\n