thinking of taking a couple of drives this year but so many places to go, what are recommended. I have done all the drives with my parents when i was younger but my girlfriend, who has been converted to loving Carvoeiro, hasn't seen much outside the normal coastal towns.

Drives or day trips to the west coast, Tavira, Monchique mountains are always a good way to discover inland Algarve.

If you are sick of beaches, you can always take a ride up to the Fontes de Estombar (only about 15 mins from cvo) for a sunday BBQ and a dip in the fountains.
Camping up at the Bravura Dam was also a great way to spend a night in the wild and enjoy nature.
If you want a different look at the Algarve, have a chat with roy4eyes if he is available to take you on a little flyover, the Algarve looks great from 1000ft up.
Alternatively, you could also take a day tour along the coast, there are cruises departing from Portimao and Vilamoura with lunch breaks, bbqs, etc. Also from Portimão harbour, you can take a boat ride up the Arade River to Silves.
Silves itself is beautiful just before sunset, you can stroll around the old town and castle (not right now though, they are still building roads at the moment, should be done in a few weeks )

Just a couple of ideas.

Lovely drive is up to the West Coast to Arifana and Aljezur.