Quinta da Vigia Gardens

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Madeira > Funchal > Funchal > Ilhéus

Location

Situated in the Ilhéus area of Funchal city, the Quinta da Vigia Gardens enjoy an elevated position. Rising atop a cliff, this estate offers a privileged perspective over the Port of Funchal and the city, with an orientation that captures the light and panoramic sea views to the south.

A Green and Serene Environment

The experience within the Quinta da Vigia Gardens reveals a space designed for delight and tranquility. Inside, natural elements such as a gentle waterfall and a lake contribute to the serenity of the environment. Various paths invite exploration of the property, connecting different areas of the garden and the main house itself, which is oriented towards the east.

Striking Views and Botanical Heritage

One of the highlights of the gardens is the Mirante da Dona Guiomar, a spot that provides broad and stunning views of the Port and the city of Funchal. In addition to the urban and maritime landscape, the gardens host a wide variety of tree species, some of which are large and remarkably beautiful specimens. Particularly noteworthy are the two imposing camphor trees that welcome visitors to the estate's entrance.

An Illustrious Past

The history of the Quinta da Vigia Gardens dates back to the 17th century, when the property was a mayorazgo that included a chapel dedicated to Senhora das Angústias, which earned it one of its old names. Throughout the 19th century, part of the agricultural land was converted into a garden, a testament to the taste for landscaped gardens at the time. This place of serene beauty hosted important figures from European history, such as Queen Adelaide of England, the Duke of Leuchtenberg, and the Empress of Brazil, with her daughter. Since the 1980s, Quinta da Vigia has served as the Official Residence of the President of the Regional Government of Madeira.

License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt