Carros de cestos (literally "basket-car"), the famous Madeiran toboggans, were originally used at the beginning of the 19th century to carry freight down the steep 5km hill between Monte and Funchal. Fitted with seats and controlled by white-attired "carrieiros" wearing straw hats they offer rides to passengers over the 2km distance between Monte and Livramento. Originally over cobbled streets the ride was fast and furious, but is somewhat slower now that the roads are tarmaced.