The Tropical Garden: Funchal's Lush Green Haven
Your journey to the Monte Palace Garden begins in the heart of Funchal.
There are several ways to get there, but in my opinion the best option is to choose the Cable Car Ride and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean as you ascend towards the garden.
See the city moving away as you climb from the ocean level towards the mountain.
From the cable car, you can look over the city where the buildings with orange roofs coexist with green spaces, banana trees and vegetable gardens in a symbiosis between the countryside and the city.
You can also choose the following means of transportation:
- Local Buses: Funchal has a well-connected network of public buses. Hop on a bus (number 20 or 21) that takes you to Monte, the charming hillside village where the garden is located. The bus journey itself is a delightful way to catch glimpses of local life.
- Taxi or Car Rental: Opt for the convenience and flexibility of a taxi or rental car. The scenic drive to Monte allows you to explore the island at your own pace.
The Tropical Garden, also known as Jardim Tropical Monte Palace, is a botanical wonder located in Monte neighborhood, about 3 kilometers from the city center of Funchal.
The garden was originally established in 1897 as a private garden by Alfredo Guilherme Rodrigues and later came into the possession of José Berardo, who transformed it into a public attraction in a collaboration with the Madeira Regional Government.
It is one of the island's most beautiful and popular attractions, drawing visitors with its lush greenery, extensive collection of exotic plants and stunning views. Trolling through the garden, you'll encounter colorful flowers, towering palm trees, and rare plant species, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere.
One of the main highlights is its exquisite Japanese Garden. Designed in traditional Japanese style, this garden features serene ponds, wooden bridges, and meticulously landscaped bonsai trees. The garden is also filled with numerous art installations and sculptures from different cultures and periods.
At the entrance of the garden you can also find a museum that displays an impressive collection of African and Indo-Portuguese art.
