The spectacular Monte Palace Gardens are listed as the 13th most beautiful botanical gardens in the world.
I spent hours there following the various paths that make their way down the steep,wooded hillside over red Chinese bridges, stepping stones, and past waterfalls (which also feed an irrigation system for the flowerbeds).
There are so many different plants and trees to enjoy and marvel at. Not forgetting the koi ponds containing the largest fish I have ever seen. I liked the glass viewing panels for the underwater scene. In this part were architectural references to Japan and China with stone Buddhas and a pagoda etc.
I enjoyed seeing the Proteas, Cycads, Orchids, the extraordinary Crown of Thorns/Euphorbia Milii from Madagascar; the African Lily tree/Spathodea Campanulata – rainwater stays in the open flowers making them attractive to birds. Also seen were Angel’s Trumpet/Datura Candida, and Frangipani which I last saw in Singapore. Luxuriant masses of Bourgainvillea named after French explorer, Antoine B…
It was thrilling to see Amaryllis growing outside, and it was interesting to see many of the plants that grow in our gardens such as begonias (with larger leaves and small flowers) hydrangeas and roses.
The first thing seen, and the last, were the thousand year old olive trees with their ancient bark which looks like sculpture. Sigh – such a happy day.
The Silver Surfers Garden 
Thank you for your tour of the Madera Gardens, Vivienne. Your wonderful photographs show the gardens at their best and it is easy to see why this place ranks as 13th in the WORLD’S BEST GARDENS.
Your explanations of the various sights help a lot to add ambiance to the beautiful scenery.
…. You are very lucky to have been there to personally been part of the experience. And no doubt got quite a few ideas for your own, quite remarkable, garden.