Kitchen Garden Forum

I recently went to Madeira on holiday, for those who dont know Madeira is a little portuguese volcanic island in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean,
famous for its flowers and parks.
Whilst there i visited loads of gardens, such as Monte palace Tropical Gardens, the botanical gardens , and my favourite the orchid gardens.
I had an amazing time, but just wondered if anyone else had been and visited other gardens. I am planning on going back next year so would be interested in any past experiences?

I'm glad you enjoyed your visit it is lovely isn't it.

There is a lovely small garden (small compared to the botanical gardens) tucked away behind the Tea House if you walk a mile or so along the coastal footpath from the lido bus stop. You can have a drink and a snack then go through the side door in the shop into this absolutely brilliant garden.

I can't think of its correct name at the moment, but I'll try to look it up for you.

If you take the bus to the old town of Canico, visit the Quinta Splendida tropical gardens. They are the grounds of the hotel, and are free to walk around. Really nice

I have had the good fortune to visit Funchal on several occasions in the past and have always enjoyed their magnificent gardens. I can clearly remember sitting by a large pool with a waterfall, I think this was in the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens. I also remember viewing the magnificent Nun's Valley from a high vantage point in the rocks before walking down to a village and catching the bus back to Funchal, this was quite an experience with sheer drops on the sides of a narrow twisting road. Yes, Madeira is a certainly a favourite place of mine.

Barney