Quinta Splendida Botanical Garden, Funchal

Advantages: Plants and birds in a semi-tropical environment
Disadvantages: A little steep, some paths uneven

...~Introduction~ Jardim Botanico or the Botanical Garden is located on a hillside over looking Funchal on the Portuguese island of Madeira. As Madeira has a climate best described as semi-tropical it has a whole host of plants both native and imported. Jardim Botanico is one of many gardens in and around Madeira and is a garden that represents the many differing plants that are on display all over Madeira. It's most famous item or the most photographed part of the garden is it's carpet bedding or choreographed garden. A splendid display of multi-coloured plants all arranged and shaped into diamonds, squares, lines and even lettering. The choreographed garden has been photographed so much that it is present on many of the postcards for sale in and around Madeira. ~Getting there~ By Car - Jardim Botanico is located on the hillside above... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average very helpful

Advantages: Within the town of Funchal with all its amenities
Disadvantages: Steep climb back up to the hotel

...We stayed at the Quinta Bella Sao Tiego on our second visit to Madeira. It has a lovely outlook over the old town of Funchal. The room and room service were very good, well upto 4* standard. A fault with the ventilation in the bathroom was fixed quickly and politely. Receptionists were particularly helpful. The pool area is small, but adequate. Breakfast was good with a range of cold and cooked choices. We didn't eat there in the evening as there were so many great eateries in the vacinity. We loved the "smaller hotel" feel after staying in the larger, less personal one in the Lido area. The only problem with the hotel is that it is up a steep hill - great for going down to the town, but not so good when you return. There are loads of restaurants nearby, from a good Pizza place, to more expensive fish restaurants. It would be... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: beautiful and tranquil
Disadvantages: none

...A short bus ride from the centre of town in Inverleith, the 'Botanics' (as Edinburgh's Botanic Gardens) is known locally is a green and lush haven that is well worth a visit. Even in its busiest periods you can lose yourself in its verdant nooks and crannies amongst exotic blooms. The air is fresh in this, its latest location (originally founded in 1670 it occupied sites near Holyrood Palace and on the road to Leith before moving to its latest, greenest pasture in 1820.) When the sun shines simply wander through its extensive outdoor gardens where thousands of plant species flourish. 'The Botanics' is the second richest plant collection in the world (after Kew Gardens, which it is older than) and contains examples of just under 10% of all known flora. This gives it an important global role in maintaining biodiversity. But for me this... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful