Association of Monte Toboggan Drivers : info and guided tour

Introduction to Associação dos Carreiros do Monte

The Associação dos Carreiros do Monte is the association that brings together the famous “carreiros,” the drivers of Monte’s wicker sledges, in Funchal. Located in the Monte district, it is directly linked to one of Madeira’s best-known traditions, where these vehicles glide down the steep roads into the city.

This place is associated with a practice that began in the 19th century, when locals used this fast means of transport to descend from Monte. Even today, the association helps preserve this local know-how, which has become a cultural symbol of Funchal and an iconic experience for visitors discovering the island.

The appeal of the Associação dos Carreiros do Monte lies as much in the tradition as in the profession itself. The carreiros, dressed in white with their straw hats, guide the sledges with the strength of their arms and feet, controlling the descent along narrow, cobbled streets. The spectacle is closely tied to the urban landscape of Monte.

Located on Caminho do Monte, the association offers a close look at this highly photographed activity, which has become one of the most recognizable images of Funchal. It is not only an attraction, but also an anchor point for a popular practice that connects heritage, traditional mobility, and local identity.

Discover Funchal with a private guide

A private guide can help place the Associação dos Carreiros do Monte within the history of Funchal and Monte, explaining the role of the carreiros, how the sledges work, and the cultural significance of this tradition. The visit becomes easier to follow, with a more precise look at its uses and urban context.