We had a slower start today, sleeping in until about 9 and easing into the morning before heading out for a day in Funchal.
Our first stop was Cabo Girão, a cliffside viewpoint with a glass floor. The view was incredible—coastlines stretching for miles and a dizzying drop beneath our feet. Tiana was not a fan of the glass, visibly shaking while trying to take in the view (and posing bravely for the camera). We weren’t alone—there were tuk tuks everywhere and a sizeable crowd of tourists, so after soaking it up for about 15 minutes, we hopped back on the moped.
Next, we zipped back into Funchal and parked up on the street, ready to explore the old town. The buildings were charming and full of character. We wandered past a church that had a memorial to Pope Francis (RIP)—not entirely sure what that was about, but it did make us pause.
For lunch, we returned to an old favourite—Bolo do Caco, stuffed with chorizo and garlic butter for Tiana, and bacon, cheese, and garlic butter for Ollie. Truly elite combinations.
Then it was time for the cable car ride up to Monte. We shared the gondola with some other tourists, but the views over the city made up for it. At the top, we headed into Monte Palace Gardens, which were unexpectedly cool: a surreal mash-up of tropical plants, azulejo tile panels, koi ponds, Chinese sculptures, waterfalls, and even a few rogue flamingos and peacocks. Also: more cats, which is becoming a daily tradition.
After wandering the gardens, we took the cable car back down and strolled through Funchal some more. We passed the beach, watched pirate-style boats docking in the harbour, and Tiana picked up some cork souvenirs.
For dinner, we treated ourselves to tacos from a Mexican place—absolutely hit the spot. On the way back, Tiana got a Portuguese custard tart from a bakery, which she saved until we got home and described as delectable.
Back at the cabin, we chilled out with some Desperate Housewives before winding down for the night.
Tiana rating: 9/10 – Solid day.
Ollie rating: 9/10 – Fewer people would’ve bumped it up.