Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a prominent hilltop attraction located south of Monte Church, offering panoramic views of Funchal’s bay. Spanning 70,000 square meters, the site combines native and exotic flora with extensive art collections. The garden’s history dates back to the 18th century when British Consul Charles Murray converted Monte Church into a leisure estate known as "Quinta do Prazer." In 1897, Alfredo Guilherme Rodrigues transformed the property into a hotel inspired by Rhine palaces, which later became the Monte Palace Hotel. The current identity of the garden emerged in 1987 through the vision of José Manuel Rodrigues Berardo, an art collector who merged nature with his personal collections.

Visitors explore pathways lined with approximately 100,000 plant species from around the world, including centenary cycads, often referred to as living fossils. The grounds also feature diverse fauna, such as swans, peacocks, and Asian Koi fish in decorative ponds. Artistic elements are integrated throughout the landscape, including Buddhist sculptures, stone lanterns, and a significant collection of tiles dating from the 15th to the 20th centuries.

The garden provides a structured walking experience, allowing guests to appreciate the blend of horticulture and cultural artifacts. While the site attracts over 800,000 visitors annually, it maintains a tranquil atmosphere conducive to leisurely exploration. Travelers can enjoy the scenic vistas of the bay while observing the historical evolution of the estate.