Madeira (Day 2)

On our first full day in Funchal, we decided to explore the town a bit.  We took the cable car or teleferico to a hilltop neighborhood called Monte, where we explored the Monte Palace (previously a hotel, not an actual palace).  Even in January, the grounds were filled with flowers of every color.  

To get down the hill and back to Funchal, we decided to take the Carreiros do Monte, a toboggan ride in traditional basket sledges.  Originally dating back to the 19th century, these toboggans were used as a means of transport by local residents who wanted to travel from the village of Monte.  Because of some light rain, our trip wasn't nearly as fast as the usual toboggan run and considerably more work for our two chaperones.

And finally, for Debra's birthday dinner, we went to the best restaurant on the island, Il Gallo d'Oro, holder of two Michelin stars.  It was a delicious end to a fun-filled day.