Madeira Toboggan Ride on Wicker Basket Sledges

Madeira Toboggan Ride on Wicker Basket Sledges liquid grain

One of the "must do" experiences in Madeira has to be taking a toboggan ride on the traditional wicker basket sledges - which is simply the only thing to do after visiting the beautiful Japanese Gardens of Monte Palace to get back to Funchal. 

Turn out of the gardens and go left, there are some signs and it's super easy to find the ticket office (30EUR for 2 people on 1 sled).  Then when it's your turn you jump in the basket and off you go! 

The men have rubber soles on their shoes and use them as brakes, while steering you through the streets. It's a super quick descent - hitting 30km/h on the 2km descent.  Loads of fun and quite exhilarating!  

The closest thing I can describe the Toboggan Men (don't know the official name) is to the Gondoliers of Venice!  A uniform, all men - some charming words here and here and expecting a tip 

Madeira Toboggan Ride on Wicker Basket Sledges liquid grain
Madeira Toboggan Ride on Wicker Basket Sledges liquid grain
Madeira Toboggan Ride on Wicker Basket Sledges liquid grain

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