Monte Palace Madeira is a beautiful botanical garden located in the hills above Funchal, the capital of Madeira. This garden is a perfect place for nature lovers and anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful and scenic environment.
Table of Contents
1. A Bit of History
Monte Palace has a long history, starting in the 18th century. Originally, it was a small estate owned by an English merchant. In the late 19th century, Alfredo Guilherme Rodrigues bought the property and built the Monte Palace Hotel. The hotel didn’t last long and closed in the early 20th century. In 1987, José Manuel Rodrigues Berardo, a Madeiran businessman, purchased the property. He turned it into the beautiful garden we see today. The garden opened to the public in 1991 and is managed by the Berardo Foundation.
2. Beautiful Plants
Monte Palace Madeira is home to many exotic plants from around the world. The garden covers about 70,000 square meters and has a variety of plants, including cycads, azaleas, and orchids. Walking along the winding paths, I saw many different themed areas, each with its own unique plants and scenery. Berardo, enchanted by the cultures of Japan and China during his travels, created the Oriental Garden in the northern part of the park. Here, you’ll find Buddhist statues, Chinese lanterns, pagoda-styled benches and pavilions, palms, bamboo, and ferns. There are ponds with a complex water purification system, islands, waterfalls, and decorative bridges. Bright Koi carp swim in the artificial ponds.
3. Art and Culture
Besides its beautiful plants, Monte Palace also has an impressive collection of art and cultural items. The African Culture Museum in the garden has many stone sculptures from Zimbabwe, showcasing African art and culture. The Monte Palace Museum, located in the old palace building, has exhibitions of minerals and gemstones from around the world, as well as tile panels that depict historical scenes from Portugal.
Monte Palace Madeira is a unique blend of nature, art, and culture. If you find yourself in Madeira, this garden is definitely worth a visit. During your walk in the park, don’t miss the café located at the bottom of the garden. Nearby, there is a small terrace with a view of the city and ocean. In the café, you can taste Madeira wine for free.
By the way, don’t forget to check out my guide to Madeira Island. Creating this map has been a labor of love – it includes top destinations and hikes, various activities, hidden gems, mesmerizing waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints, among many other treasures.
Isn’t Madeira a Green Paradise? 🌿✨
This island is a masterpiece of nature—lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. From the mystical Laurisilva forest to the endless levada trails, Madeira feels like stepping into another world.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring volcanic cliffs, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, Madeira is a destination that never stops giving.
💡 Planning your trip?
👉🏼 Check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO MADEIRA — your perfect companion to uncover the island’s most stunning spots 💫
🌍 Link in bio 👆🏻
#MadeiraIsland #GreenParadise #ExploreMadeira #greenearth #HikingParadise #Madeira #PrivateGuide #LevadaWalks #DiscoverMadeira #TravelMap #TravelMadeira #HiddenGems #IslandEscape #MadeiraLovers #NatureAtItsBest
Isn’t Madeira a Green Paradise? 🌿✨
This island is a masterpiece of nature—lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant landscapes that seem almost too beautiful to be real. From the mystical Laurisilva forest to the endless levada trails, Madeira feels like stepping into another world.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring volcanic cliffs, or just soaking in the peaceful vibes, Madeira is a destination that never stops giving.
💡 Planning your trip?
👉🏼 Check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE TO MADEIRA — your perfect companion to uncover the island’s most stunning spots 💫
🌍 Link in bio 👆🏻
#MadeiraIsland #GreenParadise #ExploreMadeira #greenearth #HikingParadise #Madeira #PrivateGuide #LevadaWalks #DiscoverMadeira #TravelMap #TravelMadeira #HiddenGems #IslandEscape #MadeiraLovers #NatureAtItsBest
What could be better than a peaceful evening hike surrounded by Madeira’s stunning landscapes?
As the sun sets and the island is bathed in golden light, the trails take on a magical charm. The cooler temperatures, the soft sounds of nature, and the breathtaking views make evening hikes an unforgettable experience.
To be honest, evening hikes, just before sunset, are my absolute favorite time to hit the trails. Even the most popular routes feel empty, giving you the rare sense of complete solitude. The landscapes and stunning views feel like they belong only to you, wrapped in the golden hues of the setting sun.
If you ask me whether I’d choose evening hikes over morning ones, my answer would be a resounding 100%! And not just because I’m not a fan of waking up in the dark to an alarm clock 🙂
What about you? Which hike do you prefer — sunrise or sunset?
And if you’re still planning your trip to Madeira, be sure to check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
👉🏼 It covers the best trails, my personal tips, and everything you need for a perfect trip—from top spots to hotels and restaurants 🏨
🔗 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#EveningHike #HikingTrails #SunsetAdventures #HikingParadise #PrivateGuide #GoldenHourLight #MadeiraIsland #HikingAddict #DiscoverMadeira #HikingTrip #SunsetHike #IslandMagic #Madeira #OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreMadeira #TravelMap #hikingvibes
What could be better than a peaceful evening hike surrounded by Madeira’s stunning landscapes?
As the sun sets and the island is bathed in golden light, the trails take on a magical charm. The cooler temperatures, the soft sounds of nature, and the breathtaking views make evening hikes an unforgettable experience.
To be honest, evening hikes, just before sunset, are my absolute favorite time to hit the trails. Even the most popular routes feel empty, giving you the rare sense of complete solitude. The landscapes and stunning views feel like they belong only to you, wrapped in the golden hues of the setting sun.
If you ask me whether I’d choose evening hikes over morning ones, my answer would be a resounding 100%! And not just because I’m not a fan of waking up in the dark to an alarm clock 🙂
What about you? Which hike do you prefer — sunrise or sunset?
And if you’re still planning your trip to Madeira, be sure to check out MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
👉🏼 It covers the best trails, my personal tips, and everything you need for a perfect trip—from top spots to hotels and restaurants 🏨
🔗 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#EveningHike #HikingTrails #SunsetAdventures #HikingParadise #PrivateGuide #GoldenHourLight #MadeiraIsland #HikingAddict #DiscoverMadeira #HikingTrip #SunsetHike #IslandMagic #Madeira #OffTheBeatenPath #ExploreMadeira #TravelMap #hikingvibes
Imagine a short trail leading to a staircase carved into the rocks, taking you to one of the most breathtaking views on the island. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?
Now picture standing there at sunrise, with a panoramic view stretching over lush landscapes of Santana. No crowds, no distractions—just you and the beauty of nature.
This spot is more than a viewpoint; it’s an experience waiting to be uncovered 😉
Hidden gems like this remind us why Madeira is a true paradise for explorers 🌿🥾
📍Miradouro do Pico Redondo, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
These uncovered treasures are what make Madeira so special. And the best part? There’s so much more to discover. From secret viewpoints to lesser-known trails, you’ll find countless hidden gems and true treasures in MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗link in bio👆🏻
#HiddenGems #PicoRedondo #ExploreMadeira #Madeira #DiscoverMadeira #MadeiraIsland #SunriseView #SunriseSky #OffTheBeatenPath #Trailblazing #TravelMadeira #VisitMadeira #TravelDiscoveries #SecretSpot #MadeiraLovers #ScenicViews #PrivateGuide #HiddenSpot #WorthTheHike #TravelMap #Sunrisemagic #HiddenTreasures #HiddenGem
Imagine a short trail leading to a staircase carved into the rocks, taking you to one of the most breathtaking views on the island. Sounds intriguing, doesn’t it?
Now picture standing there at sunrise, with a panoramic view stretching over lush landscapes of Santana. No crowds, no distractions—just you and the beauty of nature.
This spot is more than a viewpoint; it’s an experience waiting to be uncovered 😉
Hidden gems like this remind us why Madeira is a true paradise for explorers 🌿🥾
📍Miradouro do Pico Redondo, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
These uncovered treasures are what make Madeira so special. And the best part? There’s so much more to discover. From secret viewpoints to lesser-known trails, you’ll find countless hidden gems and true treasures in MY INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️
🔗link in bio👆🏻
#HiddenGems #PicoRedondo #ExploreMadeira #Madeira #DiscoverMadeira #MadeiraIsland #SunriseView #SunriseSky #OffTheBeatenPath #Trailblazing #TravelMadeira #VisitMadeira #TravelDiscoveries #SecretSpot #MadeiraLovers #ScenicViews #PrivateGuide #HiddenSpot #WorthTheHike #TravelMap #Sunrisemagic #HiddenTreasures #HiddenGem
There’s something magical about chasing the first rays of sunlight, especially when you find a spot that offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. This place didn’t disappoint—the sky lit up with shades of purple, orange and pink, creating the perfect moment to start the day.
Whether you’re an early riser or need a little motivation to wake up, this sunrise location is well worth it. It’s not just about the view but the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of connection to nature that Madeira offers so generously.
📍Miradouro do Guindaste, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
✈️Planning your Madeira trip?
👉🏼My INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️features even more incredible locations, including the BEST SUNRISE & SUNSET SPOTS across the island💫
🧞♂️It’s your go-to for discovering the magic of Madeira
🌍 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#ExploreMadeira #SunriseMagic #TravelMap #ScenicView #BucketListDestination #MadeiraIsland #sunrises_and_sunsets #SunriseLover #MadeiraHikes #TravelMadeira #HiddenGem #PrivateGuide #TravelMap #DiscoverMadeira #Madeira #DawnToday #sunrisesky #OceanCliff #BucketListAdventures #sunrise_sunset #MadeiraGuide #sunrise_sunset_worldwide #VisitMadeira
There’s something magical about chasing the first rays of sunlight, especially when you find a spot that offers stunning views of the ocean and rugged cliffs. This place didn’t disappoint—the sky lit up with shades of purple, orange and pink, creating the perfect moment to start the day.
Whether you’re an early riser or need a little motivation to wake up, this sunrise location is well worth it. It’s not just about the view but the peaceful atmosphere and the sense of connection to nature that Madeira offers so generously.
📍Miradouro do Guindaste, Madeira, Portugal 🇵🇹
✈️Planning your Madeira trip?
👉🏼My INTERACTIVE GUIDE + MAP OF MADEIRA 🗺️features even more incredible locations, including the BEST SUNRISE & SUNSET SPOTS across the island💫
🧞♂️It’s your go-to for discovering the magic of Madeira
🌍 Link in bio! 👆🏻
#ExploreMadeira #SunriseMagic #TravelMap #ScenicView #BucketListDestination #MadeiraIsland #sunrises_and_sunsets #SunriseLover #MadeiraHikes #TravelMadeira #HiddenGem #PrivateGuide #TravelMap #DiscoverMadeira #Madeira #DawnToday #sunrisesky #OceanCliff #BucketListAdventures #sunrise_sunset #MadeiraGuide #sunrise_sunset_worldwide #VisitMadeira
