FUNCHAL, MADEIRA

Enjoy one of the most beautiful collections of native plants from Macronesia, as well as other varieties from Cape Verde, the Azores and the Canary Islands.

Departing from the pier, we first enjoy a brief sightseeing tour of Funchal by coach. Stopping at the old town, we then take a cable car ride to Monte. Here we will visit the lovely gardens and the church.

Following our stop in Monte, we visit the Botanical Gardens, which include one of the most beautiful collections of native plants from Macronesia, as well as other varieties from Cape Verde, the Azores and the Canary Islands. Among the multitude of plants are orchids and many other native Madeiran flowers.

Our final stop will be at the flower market, where we will have some free time to browse, before returning to the quayside.

TOUR NOTES: This tour involves some walking, some of which may be over cobbled ground. Unfortunately this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. To visit the church, there is a walk of approximately 90 metres (250 feet) and approximately 68 steps. The cable car is boarded by a ramp; it doesn’t actually stop to let passengers on, so it may not be suitable for less mobile passengers or wheelchair users; passengers may take the coach to Monte instead if preferred. There may be an opportunity to purchase souvenirs on this tour. Toilet facilities are available at all of the stops. What flora may be seen is obviously subject to seasonal change. Extra caution should be taken at the Botanical Gardens, as the paths may be slippery.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2009 CANARIES & MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES