Palheiro Gardens is a hillside estate garden in São Gonçalo, above Funchal. Its quieter paths pass camellias, old exotic trees, formal beds and looser woodland sections, with views towards the city and sea. Look for the Main Garden, Sunken Garden, Rose Garden and Lady’s Garden; the camellia collection is a highlight, with blooms from October to April. The Tea House has cakes and light meals, and its garden looks over the golf course. Allow time for uneven paths and a substantial walk around the grounds.
An estate garden above Funchal
Palheiro Gardens sits on a hillside estate at about 500 metres above sea level, east of Funchal. The garden began in the early 19th century, when the Count of Carvalhal planted trees from around the world and started a collection of camellias. Some of those early trees remain.
The estate passed to the Blandy family around 1885. Later plantings expanded its collection, including proteas from South Africa. The grounds combine formal garden areas with woodland paths and mature exotic trees.
Camellias and garden rooms
Camellias are a defining part of the garden. An avenue flowers from October to April, and the collection draws attention for its range of forms and colours. The Main Garden, Sunken Garden, Ribeiro do Inferno, Rose Garden and Lady’s Garden each give the grounds a different character.
Look for old trees, water features, roses on pergolas and shaped boxwood. The planting shifts between carefully arranged beds and paths with a more wooded, tropical feel. Long views open towards Funchal and the sea.
Planning your walk
The grounds are large enough to occupy a good part of a day, and a two-hour visit is a reasonable starting point. Paths are uneven in places, including some sections that can be difficult for wheelchair users. Wheelchair access is available at the entrance, restroom and parking area, but this does not mean every garden path is level or easy to navigate.
Buses 36 and 37 connect the gardens with Funchal. Service back to town can be infrequent, so check the timetable posted at the entrance before setting off. A bus stop is directly outside the gardens.
A break at the Tea House
The Tea House garden café is a place to pause during the walk. It serves cakes and light food such as quiche, with a view over the golf course. If the café is busy, leave time for your order, as service may take longer when staff are handling it alone.
Perguntas frequentes
How long should I spend at Palheiro Gardens?
Allow about 2 to 3 hours to explore the grounds. The estate is extensive, and the paths involve plenty of walking.
When do the camellias bloom at Palheiro Gardens?
The camellia avenue flowers from October to April. Spring and summer are also suggested for seeing more plants in bloom.
How do you get to Palheiro Gardens from Funchal?
Buses 36 and 37 serve the gardens, with a stop outside. Check the return timetable at the entrance because services can be infrequent.
Are Palheiro Gardens wheelchair accessible?
The entrance, restroom and parking are wheelchair accessible, but some garden paths are uneven and difficult to navigate.
