Gardens of Madeira 733

Gardens of Madeira 733

195 Views
8 Days From

$2340

Gardens of Madeira 733

8 Days Starting in London, UK and ending in Madeira, Portugal

Visiting: Funchal, Madeira

Tour operator:

Brightwater Holidays

Tour code:

BGMD

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Moderate

Trip Styles:

Luxury

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $2340

NB: Prices correct on 31-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an enchanting journey through the Gardens of Madeira, where nature and culture intertwine beautifully. This tour invites you to explore the exotic flora of Madeira's Botanical Gardens and the historic Quinta da Boa Vista, renowned for its stunning orchid collection. Experience the island's unique irrigation channels, the 'levadas', on a gentle walk, and enjoy a cable-car ride to Monte for breathtaking views. Discover the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores and the serene Santa Catarina Park. Delight in a traditional toboggan ride and indulge in afternoon tea at the luxurious Reid’s Palace Hotel. With comfortable coach travel and a professional tour manager, this small group tour ensures a seamless and immersive experience of Madeira's picturesque villages and natural wonders. Enjoy a welcome dinner and comfortable accommodation, making this a perfect getaway for garden and nature enthusiasts.

Highlights

  • Tour of the Botanical Gardens, showcasing the exotic flora of Madeira.

  • Gentle walk along the 'levadas', the island's unique irrigation channels.

  • Cable-car ride to the hill town of Monte with splendid views.

  • Visit to the historic Quinta da Boa Vista, known for its orchid collection.

  • Explore the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores and Santa Catarina Park.

  • Experience a traditional toboggan ride from Monte to Funchal.

  • Full-day tour of Madeira's picturesque villages and natural wonders.

Places You'll See

Gardens Of Madeira 733

Gardens Of Madeira 733

Gardens Of Madeira 733

Gardens Of Madeira 733

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : London

Location: Funchal

Accommodation: Overnight Flight

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

We depart from London Gatwick on a direct flight to Funchal.  On arrival we will be met by our local guide and our coach, which will take us to our accommodation. A welcome dinner is included in the hotel this evening.

Day 2 : Madeira

Location: Madeira

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

We begin our exploration of Madeira with a visit to the Quinta da Boa Vista, a historic former estate that used to grow market garden produce for visiting ships but is now known for the growing of Estrelicia (Bird of Paradise) plants and cut flower production. It is also home to the best orchid collection on the island. We will be welcomed here by the owner and tea and cake is provided. In the afternoon we visit 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, apart from being a beautiful place of leisure, it also serves as a Science and Culture Centre.

Day 3 : Quinta Do Palheiro

Location: Madeira

Meals Included: Breakfast

We depart this morning on a visit to the Quinta do Palheiro (formally 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 spread of agapanthus and arum and belladonna lilies in season. In the afternoon we will enjoy a gentle half-day walk on the footpaths alongside the “levadas” (small man-made irrigation canals), which wind their way around the island. This is one of the nicest ways to explore the island and offers the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Madeira. In the late afternoon we pause for tea and cake at the Jasmin Tea House.

Day 4 : Mercado Dos Lavradores, Quinta Vigia, Santa Catarina Park

Location: Funchal

Meals Included: Breakfast

We have a three-quarters day tour today, beginning with a visit to the local market, the Mercado dos Lavradores, followed by the Quinta Vigia, a small garden which is part of the Presidential Palace, and the neighbouring Santa Catarina Park, set in a natural amphitheatre. We conclude at a tea house where we enjoy some Madeiran specialities.

Day 5 : At Leisure

Location: Madeira

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today is at leisure to relax in the hotel or explore on your own. Alternatively join us on a full day tour of the island, including lunch. We will visit the picturesque villages of Camara de Lobos, which was made famous by Sir Winston Churchill in 1950 when he painted the sea cliffs at Cabo Girao; Ribiera Brava, (wild river), which was one of the earliest settlements in Madeira; Encumeada, a 1000m high mountain pass where fascinating cloud displays can often be seen and Porto Moniz, which has long been famous for its natural bathing pools and wonderful scenery, where lunch will be served. In the afternoon we continue via Santana, a pretty village characterised by its thatched houses; the forests and high plateau of Paul da Serra and finally Ponta do Sol, which as the name implies is the sunniest part of the island.

Day 6 : Monte

Location: Funchal

Meals Included: Breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel. 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 chateau-like Palace. After our tour of the gardens, we will have the option of taking part in one of Madeira's most treasured traditions: a 10-minute toboggan ride where you slide down the streets from Monte to Funchal in traditional wicker toboggans. It's safer than it sounds! In the afternoon we go to Reid’s Palace Hotel. Since it opened in 1891, this luxurious hotel has welcomed the rich and famous, from the Empress of Austria to Sir Winston Churchill and George Bernard Shaw. After a look around the lush gardens that surround the hotel, we will enjoy a delicious afternoon tea of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, home-made pastries, jam, butter and cream and your choice of tea.

Day 7 : At Leisure

Location: Madeira

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today is at leisure to relax in the hotel or explore on your own. In May this will be your opportunity to enjoy all the sights of the Flower Festival. A farewell dinner will be served in the hotel in the evening.

Day 8 : Funchal

Location: Funchal

Meals Included: Breakfast

We transfer to Funchal airport in time to catch our flight home.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation is included as part of the tour package.

  • Services of a professional tour manager

    The services of a professional tour manager are included throughout the tour.

  • Comfortable coach travel throughout

    Comfortable coach travel is provided throughout the tour.

  • Meals - as per the itinerary

    Meals are included as per the itinerary.

  • All visits as outlined in the itinerary

    All visits outlined in the itinerary are included in the tour package.

  • Direct flight from London Gatwick to Funchal

    A direct flight from London Gatwick to Funchal is included in the tour.

  • Welcome dinner

    A welcome dinner is included at the hotel on the first evening.

What's Not Included

The optional full-day tour of the island is not included in the standard package.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with coach transfers throughout the tour, including a direct flight from London Gatwick to Funchal, ensuring a seamless journey as you explore the beautiful island of Madeira.

Accommodation

Enjoy comfortable accommodation with a welcome dinner included at the hotel on the first evening, providing a relaxing start to your exploration of Madeira's stunning gardens and landscapes.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour includes comfortable coach travel throughout, with a direct flight from London Gatwick to Funchal, ensuring a seamless journey as you explore Madeira.

  • Is there a professional guide available during the tour?

    Yes, the services of a professional tour manager are included throughout the tour.

  • What activities are included in the tour of Madeira?

    The tour includes visits to the Botanical Gardens, a walk along the levadas, a cable-car ride to Monte, a visit to Quinta da Boa Vista, exploring the Mercado dos Lavradores and Santa Catarina Park, a traditional toboggan ride, and afternoon tea at Reid’s Palace Hotel.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Meals are included as per the itinerary, with a welcome dinner at the hotel on the first evening.

  • What is the optional activity available during the tour?

    There is an optional full-day tour of the island, which is not included in the standard package.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Monte?

    In Monte, you will take a cable car ride offering splendid views, visit the Monte Palace Gardens, and have the option to experience a traditional toboggan ride down to Funchal.

  • Will I receive more details of the holiday before I travel?

    You will receive detailed joining instructions around 10 days prior to you departure, but you are of course welcome to contact us at any time should you have any queries.

  • What facilities do your coaches have?

    Generally, our coaches have reclining seats, air-conditioning and toilets, however this cannot always be guaranteed as sometimes we have to use smaller vehicles. Toilets are recommended for emergency use only and regular comfort stops will be made throughout your holiday while travelling around.

  • Do I have to go on the included excursions?

    Absolutely not. You are more than welcome to spend the day at your hotel or exploring independently should you wish. All we ask is that you inform your Tour Manager, so they are not left waiting for you to join the group.

  • Is there time to relax?

    Although our itineraries may seem jam-packed, boasting access to some of the most exclusive sites across the UK and beyond, a Brightwater Holiday is just that: a holiday. Each trip will counter in more than enough free-time for you to explore places at your own leisure. And with most nights and the majority of meals being included in our tour prices, you can relax in hand-picked accommodation.

  • Do I need to be an expert?

    Absolutely not! Although some of our tours are specifically focused on one thing, all you need to enjoy a Brightwater holiday is interest and bags of enthusiasm! Even on our most specialist tours, we take travellers from all skill levels, from experts to beginners.

  • How fit or active do I need to be for one of your holidays?

    You need to be able to get on and off the coach unassisted, and most – but not all – coaches have a kneel facility that lowers the front step for ease of boarding

  • Do you have self-drive holidays?

    Yes, we do – tailored to your exact requirements!

  • What’s the luggage allowance on your coaches?

    There’s no fixed limit, but we generally say one large suitcase to go in the luggage compartment and a smaller bag that you can take onto the coach with you. For flight-inclusive holidays, we include a luggage allowance of at least 20kg.

  • Where are your departure points?

    UK garden holidays generally depart from London, with additional pick-ups depending on the route of the coach, while holidays to Scotland depart from Glasgow, Edinburgh and Perth, with Dundee, Inverness and Aberdeen sometimes included. All Eurostar holidays depart from London St. Pancras and flight-inclusive holidays depart from one or more of the main London airports, with regional flights .

  • What about the company that will be kept?

    For single travellers, those with a companion or even those travelling in a larger group, you'll find that the signature of any Brightwater Holiday is the company. You won't ever be travelling with a group of strangers, instead, you'll find yourself surrounded by like-minded people with a strong shared interest who will soon become your firm friends.

  • What is a Brightwater Holiday?

    Bursting with enthralling, educational and enlightening itineraries, a Brightwater Holiday, by its very nature, is packed with bucket-list-worthy destinations, behind the scenes passes and expert-led experiences. From creating bespoke quality garden and special interest tours for groups and individuals alike, we have made it our business to make our guests' travel dreams come true.

  • Why is there a single supplement?

    Unfortunately, single room supplements are charges that are often imposed on us as a company when we book rooms for group holidays. However, most hotels do charge less for single occupancy, and we always pass this saving on to our solo travellers in the form of a modest single supplement.

  • How much are your optional excursions?

    Prices start from as little as £20, but please contact our friendly team for questions about specific itineraries or excursions.

  • Can I pre-book my coach seats?

    Yes, you can. In the case of front seats, guests with limited mobility are given priority. Please get in touch with our friendly team to discuss any requirements you may have.

  • How to get there? Easy!

    With a Brightwater Holiday, the journey is just as important as the destination and we make getting you to your tour start point easy. From organising group flights and individual travel plans, to offering accessible local departure and pick-up points, we go out of our way to ensure that your journey is as convenient and hassle-free as it can be.

  • Do I need to have travel insurance?

    Travel insurance is required for all overseas holidays and is also strongly recommended for UK holidays – primarily to protect yourself against cancellation charges should you be unable to travel.

Reviews of this operator

Trusted Customer  

Brightwater Holidays offers great value

28-Nov-2019

I would highly recommend Brightwater Holidays. It offers excellent service and value for money. This was my first tour as I normally arrange holidays myself, but this tour - which was to the gardens of Kent and Sussex - was a very pleasant change of pace.

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Brightwater Holidays Customer  

My experience with Brightwater Holidays

08-Aug-2019

The tour was well managed, the sites visited were all interesting and linked to the theme of the Picts and their place in history, the hotel was comfortable and the coach journeys were well paced. I have been with Brightwater before and will certainly travel with them again

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Alan Hawkes (Google Reviewer)  

We were on the Tour...

28-Aug-2022

We were on the Tour of the Outer Hebrides. We had a great experience, in no small part due to the excellence of the tour manager and driver.

Brightwater Holidays Custome  

Wonderful experience with brilliant information

31-Jul-2019

The most important factor was an amazing guide in Alastair Walker whose knowledge and care for clients was fantastic. The whole trips are superbly organised

Feefo Trusted Reviews
David MacLennan (Google Reviewer)  

Noted a comment on taking...

23-Aug-2023

Noted a comment on taking coaches on A814 by a local person who didn't know the facts: When the A82 was blocked and the POLICE divert you onto that road you do as instructed not what a you know are tight roads but they only way to your destination as intructed by officials. We know this route is not suitable for large vehicles but the driver does as instructed by someone in authority.

Eric Webb (Google Reviewer)  

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday...

07-Oct-2023

Recent (September 2023) Scottish holiday not so good. Various 'issues' to do with scheduling and organisation. I'm happy to report however that - after an interval - a letter expressing disappointment brought a full response - including a generous refund. So - with fingers slightly crossed - we'll be booking with Brightwater again in due course.

Kevin Barrett (Google Reviewer)  

The recent tour in Northumberland...

30-Sep-2023

The recent tour in Northumberland turned out to be a shambles. Our South London driver took us to Newcastle, but no guide to meet us. Next day still no guide and the bus driver attempted to salvage the tour the best he could despite having no knowledge of the attractions. Fortunately one of the passengers Googled the tides for Holy Island. No holiday guide ever showed up. Coach and hotel were fine. Do these people only offer self guided tours? Take Shearings next time.

ALEXANDRA MCQUEEN (Google Reviewer)  

Been trying to get a...

17-Oct-2023

Been trying to get a reply from them for over a week. Booked Xmas tour, confirmation said pick up subject to numbers, they never said anything when booking and theyve been paid in full. Would not recommend!

Dp Green (Google Reviewer)  

I had heard this company...

20-Feb-2024

I had heard this company was a nightmare to deal with, but thought I'd give it a go. Signed up for a tour, then emailed them about how to pay off the balance. No response to 3 emails. I've never encountered a tour company that ignored questions on how to pay off a balance. Looked into other reviews and found many complaints about cancelled tours and refusals to refund deposits.

Kieran Thompson (Google Reviewer)  

Two of your tour busses...

26-Jul-2021

Two of your tour busses used the A814 from Garelochhead to Arrochar on 24th July 2021. This route is not suitable for large vehicles and your drivers should not have taken the huge coaches that way. There are clear signs at both ends of the road indicating it is not suitable for HGV's. Our car had to go off into the soft verge to allow your coaches to pass. Please amend your routes to avoid this road in future.

1 Select your preferred date

Monday - Monday

Nov 25, 2024 - Dec 02, 2024
$2340

Monday - Monday

Nov 25, 2024 - Dec 02, 2024
$2444

Including UK Flights

Thursday - Thursday

May 01, 2025 - May 08, 2025
$3145

Thursday - Thursday

May 01, 2025 - May 08, 2025
$3218

Including UK Flights

Monday - Monday

Nov 24, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
$2515

Monday - Monday

Nov 24, 2025 - Dec 01, 2025
$2573

Including UK Flights

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Brightwater Holidays allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform brightwater holidays, 25 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Brightwater Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of brightwater holidays charges.

    At 40 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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