Images courtesy of Paronella Park

Paronella Park

Get there by train Get there by road Accommodation

Back in 1913 a man called Jose Paronella had a dream of building a castle in a virgin forest alongside Mena Creek, and by 1935 his dream had been realised. A magnificent castle with grand staircase, lakeside tunnels and bridges, picnic areas and magnificent gardens, opened to the public. On Saturday nights Jose and his wife invited everyone to the movies.

Over the years the property has seen tragedies, fire and cyclones, but today the castle is once again open to the public. Current owners Mark and Judy Evans have lovingly restored Paronella Park to be leisurely enjoyed both day and night, incorporating informative tours. They believe in dreams. And Jose’s dream is being continued.

Getting there:

Paronella Park, Japoonvale Rd, Mena Creek. Mena Creek is 109km south of Cairns.

By train:

Catch The Sunlander or Tilt Train to Cairns. Paronella Park is located 1 hour and 45 minutes drive from Cairns. Take your car on holiday with you when travelling onboard The Sunlander to Cairns using Motorail. To book your rail adventure call Traveltrain Holidays on 1800 627 655.

Further information:

Paronella Park   Ph 07 4065 3225

Cheap tickets for RACQ members

 

Voters Comments

Add your comment

#1

liam richard
2009-03-09

i love this place so much

#2

Marilyn Bardoe
2009-03-03

Congratulations on winning first place in th "150 Must Do's in Queensland". Very worthy winners I must say. I absolutley had a wonderful time over in Cairns in August (I am from Broome WA) & the main highlight of the trip was my day spent down at Paronella Park. Everytime I talk to friends about the holiday or if friends are going to Cairns, I tell them they should definatley try & get to Paronella Park. Congratulations once again. Maz

#3

Kirsten Northfield
2009-03-03

Congratulations on being a truly worthy winner of the "150 must-do's" competition!! We visited in July 2008 and it was a wonderful experience - this is an amazing place not to be missed!!

#4

mary richards
2009-03-03

WELL DONE!!!! congratulations will be back to see you again this year Mary and Ernie Richards

#5

kenny grogan
2009-02-26

all the grogan family have traveld we all lov eit so much totally awesome i want to buy it

#6

Connie Stoyakovich
2009-02-03

If you think this place is a magical dream to visit, try just 'happening' on it by accident! In 1987 my mother, sister and I were driving from Cairns back to the Gold Coast, and took a wrong turn somewhere and ended up finding our way to Paronella Park. It was in a sad state at the time, but we were still allowed to tour through it. What a fantastic place! It was a little spooky with all the disrepair, but we have never forgotten it, and the amazing experience we had. Getting lost can be such an adventure!

#7

Neville Clark
2009-02-02

I've found it absolutely fantastic to see the response that Paronella Park has received during the "150 Must Dos" promotion. It's great to see that so many people share my love of this part of Queensland.

#8

Laura
2009-02-02

Such a beautiful and amazing place, and the staff were the most friendly and welcoming of any were we have been. Thanks.

#9

Theresia Timson
2009-02-02

Outstanding, awesome, fantastic. Can't wait to go back to the castle in the rainforest. A winner!

#10

Krisit Stanley
2009-02-02

This place really is a dream come true. It is set in a lush tropical wilderness with a fairy tale castle and outbuildings. A real child's paradise, (% many a grown-ups too.)

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