A only-in-Madeira tradition dating to the 1850s: two white-clad drivers steer a wicker basket sled down 2km of steep, winding streets from Monte to Livramento using only ropes and their rubber-soled boots to brake. Originally a practical way for Monte residents to reach Funchal quickly, it is now a thrilling novelty ride for visitors.
The Monte toboggan ride is a Madeiran tradition dating back to the 1850s, when it served as a practical way for Monte residents to descend quickly toward Funchal. Two carreiros dressed in white, wearing straw hats and rubber-soled boots, steer a woven wicker basket sled down roughly 2 kilometres of steep, winding paved streets from Monte to Livramento, using ropes and their boots to brake and steer around the curves. The ride itself lasts only 10 to 15 minutes but reaches a surprising pace on the steeper sections, giving passengers a brief adrenaline rush along with views over the rooftops and gardens of the hillside neighborhood. It's typically combined with a visit to nearby Monte Palace Tropical Garden or Nossa Senhora do Monte church, since the starting point sits right beside the cable car station from Funchal. Mornings, particularly before the large coach tour groups arrive from around mid-morning, offer shorter waits at the basket queue; by early afternoon the line for baskets can stretch considerably, especially in peak summer months.
| Admission | Adult €30 per two-person basket (~$32.40) · Child Rides with an accompanying adult in the same basket |
|---|---|
| Hours | 9AM–6PM daily |
| Typical visit | 10–15 minutes |
| Best time | Morning before tour bus groups arrive at Monte |
| Getting there | Funchal cable car to Monte or bus 20/21/48; taxi returns from Livramento |
| Address | Largo da Igreja de Monte, 9050-288 Funchal, Madeira |
Weather through the year in Madeira
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Madeira.
Location
Largo da Igreja de Monte, 9050-288 Funchal, Madeira
32.6742, -16.9186 View on map
Highlights
- Historic wicker basket sled steered by two white-clad carreiros
- 2km descent through Monte's steep, winding streets
- Tradition dating back to the 1850s as a practical transport method
- Views over Monte's hillside neighborhood during the descent
Tips for visiting
- Ride in the morning before tour bus groups arrive and the queue lengthens
- Arrange a taxi or transport back from Livramento in advance, as it drops passengers away from the Monte cable car station
- Hold on to loose belongings, as the basket can pick up speed on steeper curves
- Combine the ride with a visit to Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a short walk from the starting point
- Expect a tip to be customary for the two carreiros guiding the sled
When to visit
Morning is best, both for shorter queues before tour groups arrive and for cooler temperatures during the ride.
Accessibility
Boarding the wicker basket requires stepping up and sitting low inside it, which is difficult for visitors with limited mobility, and the ride is not wheelchair accessible.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the toboggan ride take?
The ride itself lasts about 10 to 15 minutes, though queuing for a basket can add considerable time in peak season.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes, most children find the ride a fun, brief thrill, though very young children should be seated securely and held by an adult.
Is photography allowed during the ride?
Yes, photography and video are allowed, though holding a camera steady can be tricky on the faster sections.