Nativity scenes in Funchal, Madeira, December 2014

In many shop windows, at every church, along public promenades, we found nativity scenes after nativity scene, some very small, some surprisingly elaborate.

 The stable scene to the right is just a small part of this overall display

A nearly life-size nativity, some ten metres or more long

 

The centre of the long nativity scene. It extends to the right with angels and shepherds.

Views from a Cable Car, Funchal, Madeira, December 2014

On our first full day in Madeira, we took a cable car to Monte to visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden--and enjoy the views of Funchal. Here are some photos from the ride. 

Houses higgledy piggledy up the hill

  

 Returning to Funchal is returning to the sea.

The Japanese Garden at Monte Palace Gardens, Funchal, Madeira, December 2014

For me, the most beautiful part of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden was the Japanese garden. These pictures don't render how exquisite it was, so you'll just have to see if for yourself!

 A large pond of koi!

Monte Palace Tropical Garden, Funchal, Madeira, December 2014, first selection

We visited this garden today--it's full of beauty.