Covering an impressive 70,000 square meters and perched 600 meters above the sea, overlooking Funchal Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is blessed with an idyllic location. However, it’s not just about the views, as the garden houses a huge exotic plant collection including the native dragon tree and Euphorbia piscatorial as well as plants from all over the globe. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the resident wildlife, ducks, peacocks, chickens, Koi fish and both black and white swans.
You’ll also notice numerous tile panels adorning the paths and flowerbeds. After the tiles you’ll find in the National Tile Museum in Lisbon, these are considered some of the most important in the country – and hard to miss as you explore.
With influences from China and Japan you’ll also discover a number of Buddhist sculptures as well as plenty of nods to water – with lakes, waterfalls and ornate bridges.
