Funchal to Monte Cable Car
One of the premier tourist attractions of Funchal is the cable car ride up to Monte.
As long as you have a head for heights, then travelling up to Monte by cable car will be near the top on your list of things to do.
Not only will the journey take you up to the delights of Monte - which is a must visit destination for any visitor to Madeira - but, in doing so, you will also be treated to some wonderful views of Funchal and its harbour.
Make sure you have your camera ready before you board the cabin. The time of the journey will simply fly by and you don't want to miss the opportunity of snapping that special photo!
Key Facts
Since November 2000, Teleféricos da Madeira cable cars have been transporting passengers the 1.5km up to Monte, 560 metres in altitude above Funchal seafront.
Although the ride is very popular, we have never had to wait long to board as the cable cars are constantly running and there is never more than a minute gap between the last one leaving and the next one arriving.
As you board the cabin there is usually an attendant present who wants to take a souvenir photo for you to collect as you leave at Monte. We have always considered these keepsakes rather expensive and have always declined the offer. But, of course, you are free to make your own choice.
Passing first over the old town district, you can view the bustling city from above.
Then, as you progress further up alongside a ravine, the landscape changes. Here the immediate scenery is more rugged, and you get fabulous panoramic views of the entire sprawl of Funchal and its harbour.
When you arrive at Monte, don't forget to take some refreshments at the adjacent café. The terraced seating gives you the chance to enjoy a more leisurely look at the across the cityscape.
| Funchal to Monte Cable Car | |
|---|---|
| Funchal terminal location | Jardim do Almirante Reis (Eastern end of Funchal seafront promenade) |
| Open Daily | 10:00am to 5:45pm |
| Ticket prices: Adults Children | €10.00 (Single) or €15.00 (Return) €5.00 (Single) or €7.50 (Return) |
| Telephone | (351) 291 780 280 |
| (Details correct at December 2009) | |
When You Arrive In Monte
Once you have arrived in Monte, there are plenty of interesting things to see and do.
The white facade of Monte Church stands dominating its surrounds. Although it is much like most Madeiran churches, it is well worth a visit.
More appealing is the lovely designed grounds of Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Although a little expensive by Madeiran standards, the gardens are an excellent way to idle away a couple of hours.
The Municipal Gardens situated below the main square, Largo da Fonte, are free for the public to wander around. Often overlooked by visitors to Monte, the narrow dirt paths that wind their way amongst the dense vegetation offer a choice spot to have a picnic.
Finally, when you are ready to return to Funchal, the adventurous may opt to ride back to the city on the famous Monte Toboggans. These are very expensive by local standards and are clearly aimed exclusively at tourists.
If you do decide to catch a toboggan, be aware that they stop short of the city centre.
The waiting taxis often charge an exorbitant fare to take you on the couple of minutes drive to the heart of Funchal. You are much better just to walk downhill yourself, you will soon find yourself at the seafront.
Oh, and the carreiros de Monte, the two traditionally dressed toboggan steerers, will expect a tip as well.
Funchal Cable Car Photos Gallery
Leaving the terminal on the seafront
Climbing over old town and surrounds
Crossing the ravine with a backdrop of the cityscape
Approaching Monte terminal
Funchal to Monte Cable Car Video
This video gives you the full experience of riding the cable car from Funchal up to Monte in little more than 4 minutes. Whilst the video gives you an idea of what it is like to glide effortlessly above the whitewashed houses of Funchal, you really have to go on the ride yourself to appreciate the panoramic views.
Directions
By Foot:-
The Funchal cable car terminal is easily reached on foot.
From anywhere in the city, head down to the seafront. Walk eastward along the promenade toward the yellow fort that you can see on the coast.
Just after you pass the Yellow Town Bus ticket and information office, you will see a large, green tinted, glass and steel building. This is where you catch the cable cars.
If you are already in Monte and you want to return to the seafront by cable car you can find this terminal easily as well.
From the front of Monte Church, descend the steps down to where the toboggan run starts. Walk along this road in the opposite direction to that followed by the toboggans.
You will pass the entrance to Monte Palace Tropical Gardens. Keep on walking. A short distance further on you will come to the cable car terminal.
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