Discover Madeira’s magical gardens with TV’s Joe Swift

Exclusive chance to join the gardening star on this stunning Atlantic isle

THERE is no finer way to celebrate the arrival of spring than on a holiday to sun-kissed Madeira, the subtropical Portuguese island that boasts superb gardens, a spectacular coastline and a consistently balmy climate.

On this unique seven-night tour, you will visit many of Madeira’s best gardens in the company of the popular garden designer and Gardeners’ World presenter Joe Swift.

Joe is delighted to be returning to Madeira – a place that has always inspired him and so many other gardeners – and he will be on hand to offer his insights and answer your horticultural questions.

Joe says: ‘I went on a garden trip to Madeira last year. I had a fabulous time and I’m very much looking forward to going again. The gardens there are world-famous and a mustsee for plant-lovers, being home to a wealth of lush flora that thrives in the island’s frost-free climate.’

REASONS TO BOOK Meet Joe Swift

Joe will join you over three days and accompany you on garden trips, as well as give a fascinating talk and host a Q&A session about his life and love of gardens.

Garden tours with Joe

You will accompany Joe on a series of tours to see Madeira’s best gardens, including the oriental Monte Palace Tropical Garden, the gardens of Quinta Jardins do Lago, which showcase some 500 species of flora from as far afield as Australia, Brazil and Madagascar, and the fabulous Palheiro Gardens, a paradise for camellia (which should be at their best in April). You will also have the opportunity to explore the magnificent Madeira Botanical Garden, and the Unescolisted Ribeiro Frio Forest Park.

Visit Belmond Reid’s Palace

You will also visit the majestic Belmond Reid’s Palace, the famous hotel that has played host to celebrities and royalty over the years. Here you will tour the hotel’s beautiful hillside gardens and enjoy a traditional afternoon tea, including freshly baked scones, sandwiches and pastries, accompanied by your choice of tea or a glass of champagne.

The best of Madeira

Away from the island’s outstanding gardens, you will also have time to explore Madeira’s impressive waterfalls and natural rock pools of Bridal Veil and Porto Moniz; Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest cape; the mysterious Curral das Freiras, the hidden mountain sanctuary for a convent of nuns; and the towering Pico do Arieiro, with its memorable panoramic views.

You will also be able to wander through the atmospheric backstreets of Funchal’s old town and the charming fishing village of Camara de Lobos, the inspiration for some of Sir Winston Churchill’s paintings.

And you will enjoy a tasting of Madeira’s famous wines.