Best For
First-time visitors seeking a unique cultural experience in Madeira.
Carreiros do Monte - Partida
PT
Tourist Attraction·Traditional, Thrilling, Scenic, Historic
Carreiros do Monte offers an unforgettable descent from the heights of Monte down to Funchal, using traditional wicker sleds that have been a part of local heritage for generations. Guests are guided by skilled drivers who use their rubber-soled shoes to steer and brake the sleds along the paved roads. It is widely considered a once-in-a-lifetime activity that provides a perspective of the city unlike any other. The journey is not about high-speed thrills, but rather a charming and historic way to navigate the island's dramatic geography. Visitors can enjoy the lush surroundings and vantage points before or after their ride, making it a quintessential stop for anyone exploring the region.
Carreiros do Monte offers an unforgettable descent from the heights of Monte down to Funchal, using traditional wicker sleds that have been a part of local heritage for generations. Guests are guided by skilled drivers who use their rubber-soled shoes to steer and brake the sleds along the paved roads. It is widely considered a once-in-a-lifetime activity that provides a perspective of the city unlike any other. The journey is not about high-speed thrills, but rather a charming and historic way to navigate the island's dramatic geography. Visitors can enjoy the lush surroundings and vantage points before or after their ride, making it a quintessential stop for anyone exploring the region.
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Address
Caminho do Monte 4,Monte, 9050-288 Funchal, Portugal
Websitecarreirosdomonte.com
Phone291 783 919
Hours
Open nowMon
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Tue
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Wed
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thu
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Fri
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sat
9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Sun
Closed
Highlights
Unique wicker sled descent down paved hills.
Expertly steered by traditional drivers in rubber-soled shoes.
Steeped in local Funchal history and tradition.
Scenic views of the lush vegetation and hillside landscape.
Before you go: Carreiros do Monte - Partida essentials
The attraction is strictly weather-dependent and closes during rain.
Expect significant wait times during peak cruise ship arrival days.
The experience is a one-way descent, so plan your return transport from the bottom of the hill accordingly.
Be aware of taxi drivers soliciting rides at the end of the journey.
Currency
EUR €
Average Cost
$50-$100 p/day
Time of Day
Lunch
Languages Spoken
Portuguese, English
Occasion Tags
Tourists, Special Occasion
Reviews
4.3
Great1,4 K reviews
Carreiros do Monte is widely regarded as a unique, must-do experience in Madeira. Reviewers consistently praise the novelty of the wicker sleds and the skill of the drivers, often describing it as a historic tradition that cannot be found anywhere else. While many visitors find the experience fantastic and well worth the cost, others note that wait times can exceed an hour, especially on busy cruise ship days. Several reviewers emphasize the importance of checking weather conditions, as the attraction closes for safety during rain. Some visitors also suggest being prepared for aggressive taxi solicitation at the end of the route. Overall, it is seen as a memorable, one-time activity that offers a fun, scenic way to descend from the heights of Monte.
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Location
Monte, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
