Hilltop Monte: Gardens, a 19th‑century church and a signature Madeiran toboggan run

FUNCHAL CITY TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Hilltop Monte: Gardens, a 19th‑century church and a signature Madeiran toboggan run

A two‑hour tuk‑tuk drive from Funchal up to the Village of Monte with a local guide to visit panoramic viewpoints, romantic gardens and the 19th Century Church of Our Lady of Monte — plus the option to ride the traditional Toboggan (paid separately).

Hilltop Monte: Gardens, a 19th‑century church and a signature Madeiran toboggan run.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Funchal
Operator
Tukxi Madeira
Category
City Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

From Funchal’s harbor the city climbs into a patchwork of terraced roofs and laurel woods; this short, guided tuk‑tuk run threads that slope to the Village of Monte, where vintage stonework, formal gardens and sweeping views feel like a different island era. The tour is driven by a local guide and stops at the hilltop gardens and the 19th Century Church of Our Lady of Monte, with an optional Toboggan ride for those who want an adrenaline aftertaste.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE VIEW

Panoramic views over Funchal

On the climb up the hills you’ll pause for sweeping vistas across Funchal — a key photo moment on this brief drive.

THE GARDENS

Romantic, cultivated garden spaces

Once in Monte the guide leads you through the village’s ornamental gardens — a quiet contrast to the city below and one of the tour’s most photographed stops.

THE LEGACY & RIDE

The 19th‑century church and the Toboggan experience

Visit the historic Church of Our Lady of Monte, then opt for Madeira’s famous Toboggan run for an unforgettable descent — the ride itself is paid separately.

What the day feels like

How the tour feels

This is an intimate, driven outing: a local guide at the wheel eases the tuk‑tuk up Funchal’s steep streets, stopping for viewpoints, then walking you through Monte’s gardens to the 19th Century Church of Our Lady of Monte. The pace is conversational and photo‑focused, with the option to finish with the classic Toboggan ride (booked and paid separately).

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this short tuk‑tuk tour suits best — and who should consider other options.

1
CouplesAn ideal, compact outing for two people in a private tuk‑tuk; the experience is intimate and photo‑friendly.
2
Solo travelersA good choice for solo visitors who want a quick, guided introduction to Monte; the private vehicle accommodates single passengers.
3
Small groupsSuitable only for very small parties — the private tuk‑tuk is operated for up to 2 or 3 people, so larger groups will need multiple vehicles.
4
Large groups or event partiesNot a match as configured: the vehicle capacity is limited to small parties, so larger groups should arrange alternate transport or multiple bookings.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

Timing & Duration

The operator lists this as a two‑hour tour.

Tickets & Extras

The Toboggan ride is available but paid separately; the driver will meet you after the ride.

Group size & booking

This outing is operated in a private tuk‑tuk with limited passenger capacity (up to 2 or 3 people per vehicle).

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Monte Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2 hour.

What does the tour visit?

The drive goes up the hills of Funchal to the Village of Monte, covering panoramic viewpoints, the village gardens and the 19th Century Church of Our Lady of Monte; the Toboggan ride is an optional extra.

Is the Toboggan ride included in the tour price?

No — the Toboggan ride is paid separately; the driver will meet you at the end of the ride.

Who drives and provides commentary?

A local guide is on the driving seat and provides the drive up the hills as well as information about Monte’s history and photo opportunities.

How many people can each tuk‑tuk carry?

The private tuk‑tuk is operated for up to 2 or 3 people.