Monte, Portugal Guide
Perched high above Funchal, Monte offers a delightful escape into a world of lush gardens, historic charm, and breathtaking views that stretch across the city and out to the Atlantic. This elevated parish is a must-visit for anyone looking to blend cultural exploration with serene natural beauty. You’ll want to carve out ample time for the world-renowned Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a true highlight with its diverse flora, unique art installations, and fascinating Oriental gardens, complete with a museum. Nearby, the striking Nossa Senhora do Monte Church stands proudly, offering a glimpse into local devotion and providing even more panoramic photo opportunities. While the scenic cable car ride up to Monte sets a fantastic tone for your visit, the real iconic experience here is the thrilling traditional Monte Toboggan ride, where wicker sledges are guided down the steep streets by two carreiros. It's an exhilarating, historic descent not to be missed! However, be aware that this popularity often translates into significant queues, especially for the toboggans and cable car during peak season, so plan accordingly or arrive early. Monte isn't a sprawling city to wander aimlessly; rather, it's a concentrated hub of specific attractions, making it ideal for a focused day trip where the primary focus is on its unique gardens and the one-of-a-kind toboggan experience.
Food & Cuisine
While Monte itself doesn't have a vast array of restaurants, you'll find several charming establishments offering traditional Madeiran cuisine. Expect to find dishes featuring fresh seafood, such as grilled limpets (lapas), black scabbardfish (espada), and tuna steak. Meat lovers can enjoy espetada, grilled beef skewers seasoned with garlic and bay leaves. Don't miss the opportunity to try bolo do caco, a traditional Madeiran flatbread served with garlic butter. Several restaurants near the Monte Palace Tropical Garden offer stunning views alongside delicious meals. While there isn't a specific market in Monte, you can find local produce and delicacies at the Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal before heading up to Monte.
Nightlife
Monte is primarily a daytime destination, and nightlife options are limited. Most visitors return to Funchal in the evening, where a wider range of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues can be found. Funchal's Old Town (Zona Velha) is particularly lively, with numerous bars and restaurants offering live music and a vibrant atmosphere. While you might find a quiet bar or two in Monte, it's not known for its nightlife scene.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Monte is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October). The weather is pleasant, with warm temperatures and less rainfall than the winter months. The gardens are in full bloom during spring, adding to the beauty of the area. Summer (June-August) can be quite crowded, while winter (November-March) can be wetter and cooler, although still relatively mild compared to other European destinations.
Transportation
The primary mode of transport to reach Monte from Funchal is the cable car, offering stunning views during the ascent. Once in Monte, walking is the best way to explore the gardens and attractions. The famous wicker toboggan rides provide a unique and exhilarating descent back towards Funchal (though they don't reach the city center). Buses also connect Monte to Funchal, offering a more budget-friendly option, though the journey is longer and less scenic. There is no tram or subway/metro system in Monte or Funchal.
Airport
Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC) is the main airport serving Madeira. It is located approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) from Monte. Transportation options from the airport to Monte include: taxi, airport bus (Aerobus) to Funchal followed by a cable car or bus to Monte, or pre-booked private transfer. Renting a car is also an option, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace.
Attractions
Nossa Senhora do Monte Church
Nossa Senhora do Monte Church is a historic church located in Monte, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. Visitors can admire the intricate design of the church's interior, including ornate altars and religious artwork. The church also offers stunning views of Funchal and the surrounding landscape.
Monte Palace Madeira
Monte Palace Madeira is a cultural center and museum housed in a former palace, showcasing a diverse collection of art, artifacts, and exhibitions. Visitors can explore the museum's galleries, which feature works by local and international artists, as well as historical displays. The palace's gardens offer a tranquil setting for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Monte Toboggan Ride
The Monte Toboggan Ride is a thrilling experience that takes passengers on a unique journey down the steep streets of Monte in traditional wicker toboggans. The ride offers an exciting way to descend from the village to Funchal, with skilled drivers guiding the toboggans along the winding roads. This iconic attraction provides a fun and memorable adventure for visitors.
Monte Cable Car
The Monte Cable Car offers a scenic ride from Funchal to Monte, providing panoramic views of the city and coastline along the way. Passengers can enjoy a leisurely journey in comfortable cabins, taking in the beauty of Madeira from above. Once in Monte, visitors can explore the charming village and its attractions.
Day Trips
Experience the thrill of Nazaré, famous for its giant waves and surfing scene. Witness the impressive waves (especially during the winter months), relax on the sandy beach, ride the funicular up to Sítio for panoramic views, and enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants.
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by car Step back in time in the charming walled town of Óbidos. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, lined with whitewashed houses adorned with colorful flowers. Climb the castle walls for panoramic views, sample the local cherry liqueur (Ginjinha) served in a chocolate cup, and soak in the medieval atmosphere of this picturesque village.
Approximately 2 hours by car Step back in time in Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage city brimming with Roman ruins and medieval charm. Explore the well-preserved Roman Temple, wander through the eerie Chapel of Bones (Capela dos Ossos), and admire the Gothic architecture of Évora Cathedral. Enjoy a traditional Alentejo lunch and soak in the atmosphere of this historic gem.
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car Visit the impressive Alcobaça Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Cistercian monasteries in Portugal. Admire the Gothic architecture, explore the royal tombs of King Pedro I and Inês de Castro, and learn about the monastery's rich history.
Approximately 2 hours by car Discover the fairytale town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the hills near Lisbon. Explore the colorful Pena Palace, a Romanticist castle perched atop a hill, wander through the Quinta da Regaleira with its mysterious wells and gardens, and discover the ruins of the Moorish Castle. Enjoy the lush landscapes and unique atmosphere of this enchanting destination.
Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes by car Nazaré
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Óbidos
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Évora
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Alcobaça Monastery
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Sintra
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