Madeira cable cars are one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the natural and urban landscapes. Travellers have the opportunity to see the city of Funchal from above, as well as access areas that are difficult to reach. In addition, cable cars are a safe and efficient way to reach Monte. In this article, we will discover why the cable cars of Madeira are a passport to the most incredible views of the island.
Madeira Cable Cars: 3 Iconic Rides for Stunning Views
The history of Madeira cable cars dates back to the early 20th century when a more efficient form of transportation between the city of Funchal and Monte was first considered. Years of planning and construction led to the opening of the first cable cars, offering a quick and safe way to reach certain areas. Today, cable cars are a popular tourist attraction, providing stunning views and access to the island’s nature.
1. Funchal Cable Car
Funchal Cable Car, Madeira Island, Wikipedia photo by Banja-Frans Mulder
The Funchal Cable Car connects the city of Funchal with Monte, offering breathtaking views of the city, sea, and mountains. The round trip takes about 15-20 minutes and passes through difficult-to-access areas.
The cable car cabin is equipped with panoramic windows, allowing passengers to enjoy the views during the journey. The cable car has a capacity of up to 8 people, making it a popular option for families and groups of friends. It’s an excellent way to see the city of Funchal from above and is a unique and fun experience.
The departure station of the Funchal Cable Car is located in the historical area of the city, close to various tourist spots, and the Funchal Marina. On the other hand, the arrival station is located in Monte, offering easy access to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
The ticket prices can vary depending on the time of year and operating hours.
2. Fajã dos Padres Cable Car
Fajã dos Padres, Wikipedia photo by CharlieTPhotographic
The Fajã dos Padres cable car is located at the bottom of the cliff near the Quinta Grande viewpoint.
The round trip journey lasts approximately 2-3 minutes and is only accessible by cable car or boat, making it even more special and exclusive, and offers incredible views of the south coast of Madeira Island.
For nature lovers, Fajã dos Padres is the perfect place to spend a relaxing day on the beach. It’s an excellent opportunity to enjoy a peaceful day and experience the beauty of Madeira Island. Additionally, the beach at Fajã dos Padres is a tranquil and picturesque location, ideal for those looking for a more secluded experience. It’s a great option for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the more popular beaches on Madeira Island.
The cable car operates year-round from 10 am to 7 pm in the summer and 10 am to 6 pm in the winter.
3. The Garajau Cable Car
The Garajau Cable Car is one of the main attractions of Madeira Island. Inaugurated in 2007, it began operating in Ponta do Garajau, near Cristo Rei and connects to Garajau beach, where the Garajau Marine Reserve is located.
The cable car ride is only 200 meters long, but offers spectacular views of the beach and the Atlantic Ocean, and is highly recommended as a way of accessing the beach.
The Garajau beach is characterized by rolled pebbles with clear and calm waters and is a habitat for a large amount of marine life.
Conclusion About Madeira Cable Cars
Madeira cable cars are one of the main tourist attractions of the island, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the natural and urban landscape of the island. Travellers have the opportunity to see the city of Funchal from above, as well as access hard-to-reach areas. Furthermore, cable cars are a safe and efficient way to reach the mountain and access Fajã dos Padres beach, offering a unique experience for travellers. The Garajau Cable Car is another option to visit the Garajau beach with an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean. So, the cable cars of Madeira are a must-see opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the island and the unforgettable views they offer.
Renting a car in Madeira allows travellers to explore the island at their own pace, accessing remote and beautiful locations.
Have a look at the 5 steepest cable cars on Madeira Island.
