Dreaming of a place that gives fantasy fiction and elvish kingdom vibes where every corner throws up new beauty to discover? On a recent trip to Funchal, Madeira I found just that and whilst a full trip run-down is coming soon, I just had to shout about this beautiful spot and why Monte Palace Gardens are more than worth the admission ticket.
Where Are Monte Palace Gardens?
Monte Palace Gardens sit nestled into the hillside above the city of Funchal, Madeira. An island just west of the African coast and just above Spain’s Canary Islands.
If you’re navigating to Monte Palace Gardens from the main town, you can access the area around the gardens by riding the cable car to the top of the mountain or catching a bus or taxi to the top. If you’re hopping off a cruise and planning a visit, many ship shuttle buses drop you off at the foot of the cable car to take the trip. Alternatively, the number 20 or 21 bus takes a circular route around the town and up past the gardens and top cable car station for only a few euros.
The gardens are just a short walk from the cable car drop-off point and the nearest bus stop.
Why Should You Visit Monte Palace Gardens?
Whilst we thought these gardens would be a quick visit before we travelled further along the coast to Câmara de Lobos, where Churchill famously painted the bay, we ended up spending the entire day in this beautiful spot, making it well worth the admission ticket. You’ll find magnificent vistas, flamingos, peacocks, dramatic waterfalls and cosy cafés all inside of the grounds.
The grounds themselves are nestled into the hillside and every level as it winds its way down offers something new to discover.
Top Things to See in Monte Palace Gardens Madeira
When you visit the gardens, you’ll want to check out every corner but these were my favourite things to see in Monte Palace Madeira.
- Check Out the Oriental Gardens. The red bridges, statues and fauna were absoltely incredible.
- Say hello to the local wildlife. You’ll find flamingos, peacocks, koi and more within the park so be sure to check them out.
- Look out over the view of Funchal. If you’re visiting on a sunny day you can see for miles around over the city and if you are lucky enough to be visiting on a foggy day like we were, the views are so atmospheric it feels like you’re in a fantasy kingdom.
- Soak in the view of the lake and waterfalls. This was one of my favourite views of the day and wandering around this little spot, looking out at it from the top viewpoints and jumping across to the lake’s island were absolute highlights. You’ll also find a stand selling drinks out of pineapples in this spot!
How much Are Tickets to Monte Palace Gardens?
Tickets to enter Monte Palace Madeira are around €15 per person and you can stay as long as you like within the grounds. Your ticket also includes a small glass of Madeira wine which most people didn’t realise, so be sure to hang onto your ticket to redeem in the lovely café within the gardens. The wine is definitely a unique taste and was the perfect warmer for the misty afternoon we ended up visiting.
You can buy tickets online via their website or from the ticket booth on the day of your visit.
What Else is There to See in the Area?
If you’re visiting Monte Palace Gardens on an extended trip to Funchal or want to see what else is in the area, here are a few recommendations of other things to do or see whilst at the top of the Monte.
- Play boardgames or dominos in the cosy café a short walk from the gardens. Café do Parque has tons of tasty treats and is the perfect setting for a quick rest break after wandering the gardens.
- Ride a toboggan down the hillside. Now you’re at top, why not take the fun way down the mountain by jumping in a basket to slide down the roads?
- Check out the nearby church dedicated to an Austrian king. Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte is a beautiful church and gets lit up brilliantly at night!
- Take a cable car trip and enjoy the view! If you’ve caught the bus or a taxi to the top, riding the cable car back down again is the perfect way to enjoy the incredible views of Funchal on a scenic route!
Have Your Own Madeira Stories?
Have you visited Monte Palace Gardens in Madeira or the Funchal area? What did you think? What were your favourite spots?
I joined BBC Radio Stoke’s Liz Ellis to chat through some memories of the trip so be sure to take a listen on the link below at around 2:19!
All Things Madeira on the Radio
Listen to my Madeira catch up with Liz Ellis on BBC Radio Stoke >
Looking for more travel inspo? Check back on my main blog page for my latest travel updates and inspiration.
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