Madeira is beautiful, we do gym, have breakfast and then start our walk up the mountain to go to the Toboggan ride. 4.5kms straight uphill. Impossible to explain how steep the walk actually is.
The streets are very narrow so are usually only one way traffic is allowed. The tobogganing is done on wicker sleds hurtling down the hill with 2 men helping it break and guide it. Incredible but fun. Madeira's toboggans, or carro de cesto, began in the early 19th century as a practical, fast public transport method from Monte down to Funchal. Today, they are a famous tourist attraction, handcrafted from wicker and wood, steered by skilled drivers (carreiros) in white with rubber-soled boots for braking down steep, winding roads, offering thrilling rides and showcasing a unique cultural tradition.
Ambassador's Ambition is tiny in comparison to the AIDA and P&O ships.
The Toboggan start, the tickets cost euro 35 for 2 people and the queue took about 40 minutes to get to us.
Madeira, Funchal is built on various volcanic hills and there is no sand on the beaches, only round volcanic boulders.
I was going to swim but thought better of it. That walk was strenuous and I arrived back at the ship hungry. A plate of salads and burger patty, I am happy.
Architecture in Funchal is similar to Lisboa with the red roofs and cream walls.
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