The History Behind the Beauty
The story of the gardens begins with the Reid family, a
prominent Scottish lineage known for the iconic Reid's Palace
hotel. The gardens are located on the grounds of the
former Quinta do Bom Sucesso estate, acquired by the
family in 1881 and transformed into a magnificent private park.
In 1960, the estate was taken over by the regional government of
Madeira to create a botanical garden and a natural history museum.
Since then, it has become a vital center for the conservation and
study of Madeira's diverse and endemic flora, while also showcasing
exotic species from around the world.
Exploring the Garden's Themed
Areas
Covering around eight hectares, the gardens are thoughtfully
divided into themed sections, each offering a distinct botanical
experience. Located just 3 kilometers from central Funchal, the
site also provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city, ocean,
and surrounding mountains.
Indigenous and Endemic Plants -
One of the most important areas is dedicated to flora native to the
Madeira archipelago. This section highlights the Laurisilva forest
- a UNESCO World Heritage site - and features species like the
Madeira mahogany, dragon tree, and rare orchids found nowhere else
on Earth.
The Tree Garden - This area
showcases trees and shrubs from various global ecosystems,
emphasizing their adaptability to Madeira's subtropical climate.
Expect a rich tapestry of foliage, shapes, and textures from both
deciduous and evergreen species.
Succulents and Cacti - For fans
of desert flora, the succulent garden is a standout. With species
from arid regions like South America, this section mimics rocky
natural habitats and reveals the fascinating forms and flowers of
these resilient plants.
Louro Bird Park - Adding color
and sound to the botanical experience is the Loiro Park, an
aviary housing exotic and rare birds. Their vibrant plumage and
lively chirps make this a favorite stop for families and
children.
The Famous Geometric Flowerbeds
- At the entrance, you'll find the iconic
geometric garden - a mosaic of thousands of colorful flowers
arranged in intricate patterns. Often called the "flower carpet,"
this area offers one of the best viewpoints over Funchal and its
bay.
More Than Just Plants: Other Attractions
The Natural History Museum -
Located within the Quinta do Bom Sucesso, this small but
engaging museum features exhibits on Madeira's geology, fauna, and
marine life - including collections of insects, birds, mammals, and
fish.
Ride the Cable Car - For a
scenic journey, reach the gardens via the dedicated cable car from
Monte. The ride offers stunning aerial views of the Funchal valley
and surrounding landscape. You can book a combined ticket for
the cable car and garden entrydirectly on the official
website.
Many visitors opt to take the cable car up to Monte, explore the
Monte Palace Tropical Garden, and then descend to the Botanical
Gardens for a full day of nature immersion.
Plan Your Visit
The gardens are open year-round, and thanks to Madeira's mild
climate, there's always something in bloom. Spring is especially
vibrant, but each season offers its own charm.
Allow at least two to three hours to explore at a relaxed pace.
Paths are well-maintained, though the hillside terrain means some
uphill and downhill walking - so comfortable shoes are a
must.
The gardens are easily accessible by bus, taxi, or cable car.
There's also a café on-site where you can enjoy refreshments while
soaking in the views.
For seasonal tips, check out our guide on Weather in
Madeira to plan your visit accordingly.
A Must-Visit for Every Madeira
Traveler
The Madeira Botanical Gardens are a testament to the island's
rich natural heritage and global botanical connections. It's a
place of science, serenity, and stunning beauty - perfect for
botanists, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape.
Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this green
heart of Madeira.
