The flower island lives up to its name
Madeira is not only famous for its unique natural beauties and its mild climate, the large number of well-tended gardens and parks with their partly unique flowers and plants has strengthened Madeira's reputation far beyond its borders. Here are just a few:
Hospicio da Princesa Dona Amélia
This garden, which belongs to a hospital built in 1862, is also located on Avenida do Infante. In this wonderful garden you will not only find a number of flowers and a wide variety of plants, it is also a haven of peace. At the entrance you can see the Swedish and Brazilian coat of arms, because the donor was a Brazilian who was married to the Swedish royal family.
Botanical Garden
The Botanical Garden is located on the northeastern outskirts of Funchal and is certainly one of the most famous gardens in Madeira. In 1936 the Scottish Reid family built a country house above the town (today a small museum with prepared animals and numerous fossil finds), in 1952 the city administration acquired the property, established the botanical garden and opened it in 1960. Numerous tropical and subtropical plants thrive there , but also native plants as well as vegetables and fruits that are grown here.
Jardim Municipal
The city park is located on Avenida Arriaga. In the exceptionally pretty garden you can see a variety of flowers, trees and shrubs from all over the world. Most plants have labels in English or Latin.
Jardins do Monte Palace
Above Funchal in the villa suburb of Monte you will find this carefully furnished garden. There you will see many native plants but also species from South Africa and other subtropical countries. You will also find a large pond, an extensive azulejo collection (= mosaic tiles), an oriental garden and a delightful terrace garden with fish ponds.
Santa Catarina Park
On Avenida do Infante, at the beginning of the hotel district, you will find this beautiful park with the chapel of the same name, built by Zarco's wife around 1450. Next to it is the bust of Christopher Columbus. Furthermore, this magnificent facility offers fountains, aviaries and many tropical plants. You have a wonderful view of the port area.
Quinta da Boa Vista
This magnificent orchid park has been in the family since 1960 and can be found on Rua Figueiroa de Albuquerque. In winter this park offers the most beautiful and colorful orchid species.
Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro
Better known as Blandy's Garden, it is on the way to Camacha. It was founded in 1804 as a hunting and amusement park. Since 1885 the property has belonged to the English family Blandy, who come from South Africa and brought many plants from there. Although the garden is at an altitude of 500 to 600 m, these subtropical plants thrive there. Blandy's Garden is certainly one of the most beautiful gardens in Europe and offers a wonderful view over Funchal.
Quinta Magnolia
You can reach the entrance to this park via Rua do Dr. Pita (just behind Hotel Quinta do Sol). Built by an American consul, the property belonged to the British Country Club for many decades. Since 1980 it has belonged to the regional government. In the beautiful gardens there are sports facilities and a swimming pool.
