Nestled within Funchal’s lush landscapes, the Monte Toboggan Private Tour offers an eco-friendly journey that showcases the island’s captivating highlights. Guests embark on a thrilling 20-minute toboggan ride, gliding through the city’s winding streets while taking in breathtaking panoramic views. The tour then delves into the serene beauty of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, where visitors can explore the diverse flora and learn about the island’s rich cultural heritage. And for those seeking a taste of local life, the vibrant Farmers Market provides a delightful sensory experience. With convenient pickup and drop-off services, this tour promises a seamless and unforgettable adventure.
Key Points
- Eco-friendly private group tour of Funchal’s highlights, including a tuk-tuk ride, Monte Palace Tropical Garden visit, and optional toboggan ride.
- Breathtaking panoramic views of Funchal’s cityscape, Old Town, and surrounding landscapes during the tour.
- Guided exploration of the tranquil Monte Palace Tropical Garden and its diverse collection of exotic plants.
- Thrilling descent on traditional wicker sleighs during the optional toboggan ride, with panoramic views of Funchal.
- Guided tour of the vibrant Funchal Farmers Market to discover local produce, delicacies, and traditional Madeiran specialties.
Tour Details
The Monte Toboggan Private Tour is an eco-friendly experience that lasts 1.5 hours, offering a complimentary pickup service from hotels in the Funchal area, with an optional harbor pick-up available for an additional fee.
This private group tour is available in several languages, including English, Portuguese, Spanish, German, and French.
The itinerary includes a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride, a visit and guided tour of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden with scenic views, an optional 20-minute guided tour and ride on the famous Carreiros do Monte toboggan, another 15-minute tuk-tuk ride, and a 15-minute break at the Farmers Market in Funchal.
Highlights of the tour include panoramic views over Funchal, wandering through romantic gardens, and experiencing the thrill of the toboggan ride.
Itinerary Overview
Typically, the Monte Toboggan Private Tour begins with a 15-minute tuk-tuk ride from the pickup location in Funchal, transporting guests to the captivating Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
The tour then offers an optional 20-minute guided toboggan ride down the historic Carreiros do Monte, an exhilarating and unique experience.
After the toboggan ride, the tour concludes with a 15-minute visit to the vibrant Farmers Market in Funchal, where visitors can explore the local produce and delicacies before being dropped off at their original pickup location.
Throughout the tour, guests are treated to panoramic views of the city and an eco-friendly exploration of Funchal’s highlights.
Panoramic Views
Sweeping panoramic views of Funchal unfold as the private tour whisks guests from the pickup location to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, offering a breathtaking bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s vibrant cityscape and the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean beyond.
Panoramic vistas of Funchal’s charming Old Town, with its colourful buildings and winding streets.
Expansive views of the surrounding mountains, creating a stunning natural backdrop.
Glimpses of the bustling Funchal Harbour, where cruise ships and fishing boats dot the horizon.
A 360-degree perspective that showcases the island’s lush, verdant landscapes and the azure waters that surround it.
Tropical Garden Exploration
After taking in the panoramic vistas, guests explore the tranquil oasis of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, where a guided tour reveals the lush flora and historic significance of this verdant sanctuary.
Winding pathways lead through a diverse collection of exotic plants and flowers, from vibrant tropical blooms to towering ancient trees. The guide shares captivating stories of the garden’s evolution, tracing its roots back to the 19th century when it was first established.
As visitors meander through this oasis, they’re struck by a sense of serenity, immersed in the peaceful ambiance and natural beauty that pervades the grounds. This enchanting garden exploration offers a delightful respite from the bustling city below.
Toboggan Ride Experience
Having explored the lush Monte Palace Tropical Garden, guests then head to the highlight of the tour – the iconic Carreiros do Monte toboggan ride.
These traditional wicker sleighs have been a beloved Funchal tradition since the late 19th century, offering thrill-seekers an adrenaline-fueled descent down the steep, winding streets of Monte. Guided by skilled ‘sledge drivers,’ the 20-minute ride provides breathtaking views as guests glide at speeds up to 30 mph.
The experience is:
- Thrilling, with sharp turns and a steep gradient.
- Historic, with a legacy dating back over 150 years.
- Scenic, offering panoramic vistas of Funchal below.
- Eco-friendly, as a sustainable mode of transportation.
Truly a must-do activity on the Monte Toboggan Private Tour.
Farmers Market Visit
The tour then leads guests to the vibrant Farmers Market in Funchal, where they’re invited to explore the bustling stalls and discover the local produce, delicacies, and crafts that the island has to offer.
Guides provide a guided tour, allowing visitors to enjoy the sights, sounds, and aromas of this thriving marketplace.
Guests can browse the colorful array of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs, as well as sample traditional Madeiran specialties such as honey, cheese, and sweet pastries.
The market also showcases the work of local artisans, offering a chance to purchase unique handicrafts and souvenirs.
This lively break provides a true taste of Madeiran culture and a chance to connect with the local community.
Pickup and Drop-off
The tour includes complimentary pickup and drop-off at the customer’s hotel or cruise ship in the Funchal area. Guests can conveniently start and end their eco-friendly adventure without the hassle of arranging their own transportation.
Plus, an optional harbor pickup is available for an extra fee, catering to those arriving by cruise ship. This seamless door-to-door service ensures a stress-free and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.
The key benefits of the included pickup and drop-off service are:
- Convenience for guests staying in the Funchal area
- Accessibility for cruise ship passengers
- Stress-free start and end to the tour
- Seamless transition from hotel/ship to the tour activities
Booking Information
Customers can save up to 10% when booking the Monte Toboggan Private Tour, with prices starting from $93.54 per group of up to 4 people.
The tour offers a convenient reserve now and pay later option, along with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and peace of mind for guests.
Booking this eco-friendly experience is simple and straightforward. Travelers can easily secure their spot by reserving online, ensuring they don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the stunning sights of Funchal, from the Monte Palace Tropical Garden to the iconic toboggan ride.
With these hassle-free booking details, guests can focus on enjoying the highlights of this private tour.
Recap
The Monte Toboggan Private Tour offers an unforgettable eco-friendly experience in Funchal.
Participants can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views, explore the lush Monte Palace Tropical Garden, experience the thrilling 20-minute toboggan ride, and visit the vibrant Farmers Market, all while learning about the island’s rich cultural heritage.
With convenient pickup and drop-off services, as well as multilingual options, this tour provides a seamless and enjoyable way to discover the highlights of Funchal.
