Monte Palace Tropical Gardens on Madeira - Everything you need to know
Monte Tropical Gardens is a green oasis in the middle of Funchal that combines history, art, and nature in one incredible location. Nested above Funchal, this magical garden is easy to access and promises an unique experience for anyone who visits. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
A brief History of Monte Gardens
The story of Monte Tropical Gardens begins in the 18th century when English Consul Charles Murray transformed a property south of Monte Church into the stunning “Quinta do Prazer” (The Pleasure Estate). By the late 19th century, this area had become home to some of Madeira’s wealthiest families.
In 1897, Alfredo Guilherme Rodrigues purchased the estate and, inspired by the grand palaces along the Rhine River, built the Monte Palace Hotel. The hotel quickly became a favorite retreat for notable visitors, drawn to its breathtaking views of Funchal and serene surroundings.
After Rodrigues passed away in 1943, the hotel was abandoned and later acquired by a financial institution. In 1987, entrepreneur José Manuel Rodrigues Berardo purchased the property and began transforming it into the lush Monte Tropical Gardens we see today.
The gardens were enriched with exotic plants like South African cycads, azaleas from Belgium, and indigenous Laurissilva trees from Madeira. Two lakes were added, creating a vibrant habitat for koi fish, along with sculptures, pagodas, and a stunning ceramic tile collection. Among the highlights are terracotta panels depicting Portuguese history and culture, offering visitors a unique blend of art, nature, and history.
Planning a trip?
Looking to book an activity or hire a guide? After spending two years on Madeira, we’ve gathered our top recommendations for local travel services, which you can find in our Madeira E-Book. But when we’re exploring new places, we always turn to GetYourGuide. They offer a huge selection of activities from trusted providers, all with upfront pricing and reviews from real customers, so you can book with confidence. Check out the activities below and find your next adventure with GetYourGuide!
Get to Monte Garden with Funchal Cable Car
• Cable Car Prices: A one-way trip costs around €12.50, while a round-trip ticket is about €18 per adult. Discounts are available for children and families.
• Cable Car Open hours: The cable car operates daily, typically from 9:00 AM to 5:45 PM, but it’s always a good idea to check the schedule online before heading out.
One of the best ways to reach Monte Tropical Gardens is via the Funchal Cable Car. Starting in the city center, the cable car provides a breathtaking 15-minute ride over terraced landscapes, colourful rooftops, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s more than just transportation—it’s a moving panoramic viewpoint, making the journey part of the adventure.
If you’d rather drive, there’s a limited parking available in Monte, but the steep, narrow roads of Monte can be a challenge to some visitors. Public buses are also an option, with routes connecting Monte to Funchal.
Monte Tropical Gardens General Information
Monte Tropical Gardens are open every day except December 25th, with visiting hours from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, allowing plenty of time to explore. Tickets for adults are €15 (VAT free), while children under 15 years old enjoy free entry as long as they are accompanied by an adult, making it an ideal destination for families. While the inside of the palace building is not open to the public, guided tours of the Monte Palace Museum are free of charge but require pre-booking and are only available for groups. Tickets can be conveniently purchased right at the entrance, so there’s no need to book in advance unless you’re planning a group tour.
What to see in Monte Tropical Gardens
Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself immersed in a 70,000-square-meter paradise filled with exotic flora, historical artefacts, and art. The gardens are home to thousands of plant species, many imported from around the world, creating a lush and vibrant landscape. From Japanese-style koi ponds to native Madeiran laurel trees, every corner is a feast for the senses. A small lake in the gardens is home to a flock of pink flamingos, adding a unique and lively touch that’s perfect for photos. As you explore, you’ll discover the Monte Palace Museum, which houses an impressive collection of African sculptures and minerals, offering a fascinating glimpse into the continent’s cultural and geological diversity. Picturesque waterfalls and serene ponds provide peaceful spots to sit and take in the beauty of your surroundings, while intricate tile panels, or “azulejos,” scattered throughout the gardens tell historical and cultural stories in stunning detail. Every path you take reveals something new, making the gardens a place where art, nature, and history intertwine seamlessly.
Monte Toboggan Ride
After exploring the Monte Tropical Gardens, there’s a cherry on top to complete your visit: the famous Monte toboggan ride. This unique mode of transport dates back to the 19th century when it was first used by locals as a fast way to travel downhill. Today, it’s a thrilling and safe tourist attraction, where you’ll sit in a wicker sled steered by two “carreiros” dressed in traditional white outfits and straw hats. The ride, available from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, takes you halfway down the hill, gliding along paved streets with stunning views of Funchal. While the experience is exciting, it’s carefully managed to ensure safety, with the carreiros expertly guiding the sleds. At the end of the 2-kilometer route, you’ll arrive at a spot where organised taxis wait to take you the rest of the way into downtown Funchal for just €10, making it easy to continue your day after this unforgettable adventure.
Have you visited Monte Tropical Gardens before, or is it on your travel bucket list?
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Madeira is such an amazing place to visit, and we still can't believe we've been able to call it home for the past two years. During our stay, we explored all the best spots on the island and tried all the most exciting activities, many of them more than once! This helped us create these comprehensive guides that will help you plan your own trip to Madeira.
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