Arco de São Jorge Rose Garden
A tranquil garden on Madeira's north coast, featuring a variety of roses within historic imperial walls. A potential hidden gem for flower lovers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak rose blooming season
Arco de São Jorge Rose Garden
Best Time
Peak rose blooming season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil garden on Madeira's north coast, featuring a variety of roses within historic imperial walls. A potential hidden gem for flower lovers.
"Some find it a beautiful, underrated hidden gem, while others feel the entrance fee is steep for the current maintenance."
Check Rose Bloom Status
Confirm peak blooming times before your visit to ensure the best experience. :rose:
Consider Hotel Stay
If staying at the hotel, the garden access might be more worthwhile. :bed:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rose Collection
Throughout the garden
Discover a variety of rose species and colors, a true delight for any flower enthusiast.
Imperial Walls
Garden perimeter
Explore the historic walls that encase this beautiful garden, adding a sense of grandeur.
Peaceful Ambiance
Secluded corners
Find quiet spots to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere amidst the blooms.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Manage Expectations on Value
Timing is Key for Bloom
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Rose Bloom Status
Confirm peak blooming times before your visit to ensure the best experience. :rose:
Consider Hotel Stay
If staying at the hotel, the garden access might be more worthwhile. :bed:
Bring Your Own Refreshments
Some visitors found the included drinks less than ideal. :water_wave:
Manage Entrance Fee Expectations
Be aware that some visitors find the fee high for the current garden condition. :moneywithwings:
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Rose Bloom Status
Confirm peak blooming times before your visit to ensure the best experience. :rose:
Consider Hotel Stay
If staying at the hotel, the garden access might be more worthwhile. :bed:
Bring Your Own Refreshments
Some visitors found the included drinks less than ideal. :water_wave:
Manage Entrance Fee Expectations
Be aware that some visitors find the fee high for the current garden condition. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Arco de São Jorge Rose Garden is a place of mixed reviews, with some praising its hidden gem status and beautiful roses, while others find the entrance fee high for the current level of maintenance. Visitors appreciate the peaceful ambiance and friendly staff, but many note that the garden could benefit from more attention to upkeep.
"Do not waste your time. The visit is not worth it. The entrance fee is outrageous and does not justify what you will find. Maybe 1€ Euro would be the fair price.
You, who are going by plane, with few days available, don't waste your time."
SANTANA MADEIRA
"Beautiful rose garden that is a hidden gem.
Underrated and a must see."
P and T
"For quite some time, this place has been on my bucket list to visit. Hidden within its Emperial walls, I've wondered if the ageing varietals, colours and scents would impress me with the 'WOW' factor, expected from a 'matured' rose garden of such calibre.
Sadly it did not! As it was clear of neglected maintenence - long grass & weeds, weather worn unreadable signage, roses and a entrance fee of €7.50/adult. I also expected to buy roses there, which was not available and find that rather odd, as it is part of the experience and added revenue to such a famous establishment, within its blooming season. However the reception staff was very friendly and helpful.
A rose garden of such age & styles should be 'MANICURED' at all times, as roses gives us tremendous joy & famous all over the world within respect. As it is, a member of the Rose Society, it should know better & best (?)
I sincerely hope that, in the nearer future, it will be 'manicured' and maintained with continous respect, as this garden is a true gem with such high potential aiding to the Tea House, its rentals, all part of this stunning area in the north of Madeira."
Miguel Jardim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The garden is located in Arco de São Jorge, on the north coast of Madeira. Driving is the most common way to reach it, with parking available. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus schedules if you're not driving.
Follow signs for Arco de São Jorge. The garden is often associated with the hotel and associated houses, so look for those indications.
The roads in Madeira can be winding and steep, especially on the north coast. Drive cautiously and enjoy the scenic routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee can vary, with some visitors reporting prices around €7.50 to €12.50 per adult. It's advisable to check the latest pricing upon arrival or on their official website if available.
Some ticket prices include a drink after your visit, such as Madeira wine, pineapple juice, or orange juice.
Information on discounts for children, seniors, or groups is not widely available online. It's best to inquire directly at the entrance.
Contrary to what some visitors expect, it appears roses are not typically available for purchase at the garden itself.
Opening hours can vary, especially depending on the season and whether you are a hotel guest. It's recommended to confirm the current operating hours before your visit.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
Visitor feedback is mixed. Some describe it as a beautiful, hidden gem, while others note that it could benefit from better maintenance, with mentions of long grass, weeds, and unreadable signage.
Most visitors find that a complete tour of the garden takes about an hour.
Some visitors have noted that many roses are not labeled, or the labels are unreadable, making it difficult to identify specific varieties.
Yes, the garden offers a peaceful ambiance for a leisurely stroll, especially if you appreciate roses and serene environments.
The north coast of Madeira can be more humid and prone to mist than the south, but it's generally pleasant for garden visits.
🎫 🛕 History & Architecture
The garden is part of a historic estate in Arco de São Jorge, known for its imperial walls and aging varietals. It's a place with significant potential, aiming to be a 'matured' rose garden.
The area features historic imperial walls and is integrated with hotel accommodations and separate houses, creating a unique architectural blend within the garden setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do visit with children, focus on the exploratory aspect – let them discover different colors and scents. The historic walls can also add an element of adventure. However, be mindful of the entrance fee, which some find steep for a potentially short visit with kids. Consider packing kid-friendly snacks and drinks as the included refreshments might not be to their taste.
💰 Budget Travelers
If you are on a tight budget, you might want to prioritize other attractions on Madeira that offer a clearer return on investment. However, if roses are a passion and you can find a way to visit during a less crowded time or as part of a broader exploration of the north coast, it could still be a worthwhile stop.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Visitor Experience
Comments frequently mention that the garden 'could use some serious relationship counseling' or needs 'serious maintenance.' Specific issues raised include long grass, weeds, and unreadable signage for the roses. This contrast between potential and current reality is a key theme in reviews, leading some to advise against visiting if time is limited or if expecting a perfectly manicured botanical experience.
Despite these criticisms, the staff is often described as friendly and helpful. The garden's integration with the hotel and surrounding houses adds to its unique charm for those who appreciate its historical context and the potential for a tranquil escape, especially if they are true rose lovers.
Maximizing Your Visit
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more serene experience. If you are a dedicated rose enthusiast, you might find the variety and scents more captivating, even if the garden isn't perfectly manicured.
For those considering the value proposition, some visitors suggest that the experience might be more fulfilling if you are staying at the associated hotel. This could offer a different perspective on the garden's integration into the estate and potentially a more relaxed approach to the entrance fee.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit