Monte Toboggan Ride

The Monte Toboggan Ride is a traditional descent in wicker basket sledges, known as carros de cesto, from Monte down toward Livramento on the island of Madeira, Portugal. The ride starts on Caminho do Monte, opposite the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte, and covers about two kilometres of steep, paved streets. Each sledge carries two passengers and is steered by two carreiros, the drivers, who wear white clothing and straw hats and guide the sledge by pushing and braking with their rubber-soled boots. The ride has run since the 19th century, when it was a practical way for residents to travel down from Monte to Funchal, and it has since become one of the best-known experiences in the city. The descent takes about ten minutes, with speeds that feel fast on the steeper bends but are controlled by the drivers. Passengers sit on the cushioned wicker seat and are carried through residential streets lined with houses and gardens, and the drivers sometimes stop briefly at corners to pose for photographs. At the end point at Livramento, taxis wait to take riders back to Funchal, and visitors can also walk to a bus stop. The ride operates Monday to Saturday from about 9AM to 6PM, and it is closed on Sundays and some public holidays. Payment is in cash at the start point, and there is no online booking. The price is about €35 for a sledge carrying two people and about €27.50 for a solo rider, but visitors should verify fares on site. A visit takes about ten minutes for the ride plus the queue, which can be long at busy times. Late morning on weekdays is generally the best time, as early groups have gone and cruise-ship crowds have not yet peaked. Wet weather can make the streets slippery, though the ride usually continues. Photography is easiest from the sledge with a camera strap secured, and many visitors buy a photo taken by the operator at the start. Visitors should bring cash and wear flat shoes.