Escorted Tours
Gardens of Madeira Tour
We explore the Gardens of Madeira from a base in Funchal, with Tony Russell’s horticultural knowledge adding context throughout. The tour includes the Botanical Gardens, Monte Palace, Quinta do Palheiro, Jardins do Lago, Reid’s Palace and a levada walk that shows how the island’s planting sits within a wider volcanic landscape.
Madeira lies 400 miles off the coast of Africa, a volcanic Portuguese island just 36 miles by 14 miles. Its warm, temperate climate supports a wide variety of planting, from orchids and bougainvillaea to lilies, hydrangeas, magnolias, jacarandas and azaleas.
From our base in Funchal, we explore the island’s gardens alongside something of its history and natural setting. Tony Russell’s commentary adds depth throughout, helping us understand Madeira’s horticulture within its wider landscape.
From
£2,855
per person
what’s included
At A Glance
Meet Your Expert Guide
Tony Russell
Tony has worked in horticulture for almost forty years, including fourteen years in charge of Britain’s National Arboretum at Westonbirt and ten years as a plant consultant to the National Trust. His career began with the Forestry Commission and has given him exceptional knowledge of trees, shrubs and designed landscapes.
Tony has also presented television and radio programmes and appeared on BBC Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time. His expert commentary combines botanical detail with the stories behind each garden, making him an informed and thoroughly engaging companion.
itinerary & excursions
Your Itinerary
Explore this incredible tour in detail and discover what makes each day so special. Below, you’ll find a full day-by-day breakdown of your journey, from the moment you arrive to your final farewell. Learn more about the highlights you’ll experience, the unforgettable places you’ll visit, and the unique moments that bring each destination to life. Whether you’re drawn by rich history, stunning landscapes or unforgettable cultural encounters, this itinerary gives you everything you need to picture your adventure and look forward to every step of the way.
Day 1: Arrival in Funchal and Welcome Talk
Fly from London Gatwick to Funchal. On arrival transfer by coach to the Turim Santa Maria in Funchal (approximately 30 minutes). We will have a welcome drink and brief introduction from Tony before dinner with wine at the hotel.
Day 2: Funchal Botanical Garden and Eira do Serrado
We begin our exploration of Madeira with a visit to the Botanical Gardens, which boasts harmonious forms, contrasting colours and more than 2000 exotic plants. It is owned by the Regional Government of Madeira and also serves as a Science and Culture Centre.
After some free time for lunch (at own expense) we will travel to Eira do Serrado for a fantastic viewing point overlooking the Nun’s Valley and a small village which is nestled between the mountains. Dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 3: Quinta do Palheiro, Jardins do Lago and Reid’s Palace
We depart this morning on a visit to the Quinta do Palheiro (formerly known as Blandy Gardens). Established over several generations, the gardens are most famous for their camellias, though there is something for everyone with green fingers, including a wonderful range of agapanthus and arum and belladonna lilies in season.
We will also visit Jardins do Lago with its lush gardens offering more than 500 different species of plants which are unique in variety and beauty. Free time for a small lunch (at own expense) before an afternoon visit to the world famous Reid’s Palace hotel for afternoon tea with a visit to their beautiful gardens overlooking the Atlantic. Evening at leisure
Day 4: Funchal Market, Municipal Gardens and Quinta Vigia
A relaxing half day tour today, beginning with a visit to the local market, the Mercado dos Lavradores.
This will be followed by visiting Quinta Vigia, a small garden which is part of the Presidential Palace, and the neighbouring Santa Catarina Park, set in a natural amphitheatre.
Return to the hotel for afternoon at leisure. This evening, enjoy a typical Madeiran dinner.
Day 5: Ribeiro Frio, Levada dos Balcões and Santana
A full day tour of the island displays the wonderful variety of scenery this destination has to offer. We start this morning with a tour of the east of the island to visit Ribeiro Frio and a walk on “levada dos balcões” (approx. 3km). The “levadas” are small man made irrigation canals which double up as gentle footpaths for walkers to enjoy the natural beauty of the island.
We then move on to Quinta do Furao and see how the locals produce ‘Pao de Santana’ with a tasting, visit a Madeiran vineyard for tour and wine tasting, followed by lunch and drinks. We will have some free time in Santana before returning via the Cristo Rei Viewpoint for views over Funchal. Evening at leisure.
Please note: The 3km walk on Day 5 is mostly flat but the path may be uneven in places, and if there has been recent rainfall some parts may be muddy. The trail is 1.5km out to the viewpoint, then back to the starting point.
Day 6: Monte Palace Tropical Gardens and Funchal
This morning we take the 10-minute cable car ride from the centre of Funchal to the fashionable hill town of Monte, which offers splendid views over the harbour and the bay.
We will visit the glorious Monte Palace Gardens which surround the chateaulike Palace before free time for lunch and independent exploration of the island’s capital, Funchal. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Return Flight to Gatwick
Transfer to Funchal Airport for return flight to Gatwick.
our guests say
Recent reviews
“This trip was wonderful, with fabulous scenery, perfect weather, and the chance to meet interesting fellow travellers. The guides were knowledgeable and added greatly to the experience.” Janet Susan Greaves, travelled February 2026
“The variety of gardens visited and the insight provided by the guides were particular highlights. It was combined with a well-balanced itinerary and comfortable accommodation, it made for a very enjoyable introduction to Madeira.” Anonymous, travelled January 2026
“The knowledge and teamwork between Tony and Roberto were a real highlight, and their enthusiasm made the tour especially enjoyable. A well-organised itinerary and excellent guiding throughout made for a thoroughly memorable holiday.” Ms Sarosi, travelled January 2026
“From the gardens themselves to the excellent guiding, the whole tour was thoroughly enjoyable. With comfortable accommodation and a well-planned programme, it was an amazing visit to Madeira.” Mr Dean, travelled January 2026
“The highlights for me were the friendly and knowledgeable team—both our tour manager and guide made the trip so enjoyable. The beautiful weather and stunning gardens made it even better.” Mrs Hussey, travelled January 2026
Availability
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HOTELS
Tour Accommodation
Turim Santa Maria, Funchal
The four-star Turim Santa Maria Hotel is ideally situated and located a short walk to the centre of Funchal. The hotel offers a bar, restaurant, terrace and rooftop swimming pool. Bedrooms are modern and comfortable with en-suite bathroom, TV, telephone, wifi, air-conditioning, minibar and hairdryer.
Turim Santa Maria Hotel Website
our regular tours
Mobility Information
This tour has a moderate fitness rating, reflecting a fuller itinerary with a good balance of visits, walking and time spent exploring on foot.
Some visits may involve cobbled streets, uneven paving, slopes, steps, stairs, limited seating, or walking from the coach drop-off point to the entrance of a site or attraction. The exact demands will vary from day to day, and we highlight specific practical details within the itinerary wherever possible.
You should feel comfortable walking at a steady group pace, standing during visits and enjoying a full day of sightseeing.
If you are unsure whether this tour is right for you, please contact us before booking.
Your questions answered
Tour FAQ
If you have a question, we are more than happy to answer it via email or phone, but you may find your answer below more quickly.
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