>A-Z English>What to see>Best of Madeira >Monte Toboggan Run

Take an exciting ride down to Funchal´s city centre on one of the Monte´s “toboggans”!

The Monte Toboggans first originated in the early 19th century as Funchal´s first means of "downhill" public transportation. Presently and for a number of years now, the "Carro de Cesto" is used to transport tourists. Made primarily out of wicker ad two wooden runners, these toboggans are driven by two men (carreiros) dressed in white, with straw hats and black rubber boots that are used as brakes. All this is possible by using ropes and greased up rags to grease the wooden runners.

The ride starts off below the steps of the Nossa Senhora do Monte Church. This is quite a fast 2km long ride down steep and winding roads that will lead you to your finishing point, Livramento, a suburb of Funchal. Visitors consider this ride a thrill and a “must-do” during your visit to Madeira Island.