Welcome to Madeira Monte Palace Gardens, a wonderland perched high above Funchal, waiting to be discovered. It’s like a scene straight out of a fairytale: panoramic views stretching out to the horizon, beautiful flowers perfectly maintained, and sculptures from all over the world at every turn.
History and architecture of Monte Palace
Monte Palace boasts a rich past which is clear to see in its architectural details. It was originally built in the 18th century as a grand estate called “Quinta do Prazer” (The Pleasure Estate). In 1897, inspired by the palaces he once saw along the Rhine River, Alfredo Guilherme Rodrigues transformed it into the luxurious Monte Palace Hotel.
After his passing in 1943, the hotel fell into disarray but, thankfully, it was reacquired in 1987 by entrepreneur José Manuel Rodrigues Berardo who named it Monte Palace Madeira. He revived the hotel’s original beauty and established the exotic gardens that people from around the world come to visit today.
What can we find in this garden?
The Monte Palace Tropical Garden covers an area of approximately 70,000 square metres (around 17 acres). This expansive space is meticulously landscaped and features a wide variety of plants, trees, and themed gardens, making it one of the most significant and beautiful gardens in Madeira and a popular destination for visitors seeking natural beauty and tranquility. This is what we can find in this garden.
Gardens and Flora: The garden houses a vast collection of exotic plants from around the world, carefully arranged in different thematic areas. From orchids to ferns, cacti, and succulents, the diversity of flora is impressive. Paths wind through the garden, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
- Oriental Garden: An area of the garden is dedicated to the aesthetics of oriental gardens, with typical elements such as red bridges, pagodas, and koi ponds, creating a space for meditation and reflection.
Lakes and Waterfalls: The garden is dotted with small lakes and waterfalls, creating a serene environment and offering spectacular photo opportunities. The sound of water adds an extra layer of tranquillity to the already peaceful setting.
- Portuguese Tiles: One of the most distinctive features of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden is its collection of Portuguese tiles, dating from the 15th to the 20th centuries. These tiles are arranged in panels along the paths, narrating various aspects of Portuguese history and offering a glimpse into the country’s rich ceramic tradition.
- Viewpoints: Given its location on the slope of a mountain, the garden offers several viewpoints with panoramic views over Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean. These vantage points are perfect for admiring the natural beauty of Madeira.
- Monte Palace Museum: Within the premises is the Monte Palace Museum, which houses an impressive collection of African sculptures and an exhibition of minerals from around the globe. These collections reflect the garden founder’s passion for art and nature.
The best panoramic views from Monte Palace
One of the highlights of Monte Palace is the incredible panorama. As you explore the different garden levels, you’ll come across various viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective.
Look out for amazing views down to the city of Funchal and its port. As well as the cruise ships, you’ll also see bobbing boats in the harbour, a reminder of Madeira’s rich maritime history. The city’s architecture is also visible from the viewpoints, including the iconic Funchal Cathedral.
But it’s not only panoramic views that you’ll be treated to from Monte Palace. Keep an eye out for hidden corners and terraces throughout the gardens. These secret spots offer unique perspectives of the surrounding landscape and the gardens themselves. We recommend finding a bench in a quiet corner and simply watching the world go by.
Lush gardens on Monte Palace
The star of the show has to be the Monte Palace Madeira Gardens. It’s a haven for anyone with green fingers! You’ll encounter over 100,000 plant species from across the globe that call Monte Palace home.
Vibrant orchids cling to tree trunks. Cycads, living fossils, stand up to 20 metres tall. Colourful koi fish, a staple in oriental gardens, glide through lakes and the sweet scent of exotic flowers creates an unforgettable experience. There’s even an aqueduct and a large waterfall that provides water to the lake.
The gardens are also home to some rare and beautiful wildlife. You’ll find black swans, originating from Australia, New Zealand and Tasmania as well as white swans originating from Iceland and Scandinavia. Peacocks have also roamed the gardens since they were brought over from the Museum / Tropical Garden of Belém (Lisbon) in March 1995.
Other native birds and even flamingos can be seen throughout Monte Palace gardens so be on the lookout for our feathered friends
Gastronomic experience
After a day of exploration, you won’t have to travel far to get a delicious meal. Right beside the entrance, you’ll find a restaurant and coffee shop serving hot food and refreshments.
Enjoy a lunch or dinner of traditional Madeiran cuisine in Pátio das Babosas with a backdrop of the stunning gardens. Seated indoors or outdoors, you can taste some of the region’s typical dishes, such as ‘espetada’ (skewered meat grilled over an open fire) or any of the fresh fish caught off Funchal’s shores
Or perhaps you’re in the mood for a hot coffee and a local pastry. The charming ‘Local Shop’ is stocked with mouth-watering local cakes and delicacies and offers incredible views over the green valley below.
Activities and entertainment at Monte Palace
Wandering through the Monte Palace gardens with your head down is a big mistake! Look up and around to admire the incredible collection of ceramic tiles. They’re not just any tiles, though – these tiles date all the way back to the 15th century and tell stories through the ages.
Keep an eye out for a massive panel called “The Adventure of the Portuguese in Japan,” made from 166 terracotta glazed tiles. History buffs won’t want to miss the 40-panel saga depicting Portugal’s journey, showcasing the most important events from kingdoms to republics.
As you continue on your journey, the Japanese gardens will transport you to a place of serenity and calm. You’ll be surrounded by running water, koi fish, water lilies, and traditional Japanese sculptures.
And finally, take a ride on the Toboggan Run, a wicker basket sledge steered by a skilled ‘careiros’ that winds its way down the hillside – a fun activity for all ages. If you don’t fancy walking back up the hill, a complimentary golf buggy service will take you back to the top.
Getting to Monte Palace in Madeira
Getting to Monte Palace is half the fun. Most people opt for the scenic Monte Cable Car offering breathtaking views of the city and coastline. It will drop you just up the hill from the entrance and so, in true Madeiran style, there will be traditional Toboggan wicker baskets waiting to take you to the grand entrance gates of Monte Palace.
Of course, those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground can take a local bus (bus 21) which will also drop you right outside the entrance.
Come visit Monte Palace in Madeira and let yourself be surprised
Monte Palace Madeira is more than just gardens; it’s an experience. It’s a place to get lost among vibrant flora, marvel at historical architecture, and capture unforgettable memories. So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a relaxing escape, add Monte Palace Madeira to your trip itinerary. You won’t be disappointed.
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