PARONELLA PARK

The Dream Continues

Are you inspired by tales of dreamers who triumph through adversity? Then you’re sure to fall in love with the history, romance, and awe-inspiring true story behind the multi-award winning Paronella Park in Tropical North Queensland. Voted RACQ’s number 1 Must Do Queensland attraction, Paronella Park offers visitors a unique and unforgettable encounter with the realised dreams of a man whose hard work and perseverance defied the odds to endure the test of time.

Everyone loves a castle. Children build sandcastles. We all aspire to be king or queen of the castle. And Spanish-born Jose Paronella was no exception. He dreamed of building a castle on five hectares of virgin scrub on the picturesque banks of Mena Creek, and today you can share in the magical culmination of his dreaming with a visit to Paronella Park. Initially opened to the public in 1935, his castle complex exuded hospitality and charm, complete with tennis courts, bridges, tunnel, reception rooms and picnic area by the waterfall. To further add to the appeal, Jose and his family hand-planted over 7,000 trees which today encircle the Park in lush rainforest foliage. Through a series of devastating natural disasters including floods, fire and cyclones, many of the original structures have been damaged or destroyed. However, thanks to the tireless preservation work of current owners Mark and Judy Evans, you can experience this enchanting Park once more, as you pay homage to the handiwork of a man who dared to dream big!

Journey back in time to experience the charm of yesteryear with a day or evening experience at Paronella Park. Located approximately one and a half hours south of Cairns near the township of Innisfail, this unique attraction must be experienced to be fully appreciated. However, it’s inspiring history, beauty and charm are sure to create lasting memories, and etch a special place in the hearts of all who visit.

The Daytime Experience

Enjoy a relaxed day out exploring the fascinating remains of Jose’s ingenious creation. The tradition of extending warm hospitality to visitors lives on today, as guests are greeted in the car park and directed to the reception area to purchase entry tickets. On arrival, you are invited to take part in a 30-minute storytelling tour, which helps acquaint you with the many highlights of the Park. The Paronella Park app is also available for free download from the app store, featuring an informative self-guided audio tour, map and detailed information about the flora and fauna that inhabit the area. Discover the stone remains of the original home of Jose Paronella and his family, check out the remnants of the old castle and ballroom complete with mirror ball, and descend the grand staircase into lush rainforest gardens at the base of a magnificent waterfall.

Marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the Lower Refreshment Rooms and nearby gravity-fed fountains. The handprints of Jose can still be felt on the hand-plastered walls of many of the structures, at times shrouded beneath a velvety coat of moss. These serve as tactile reminders of the arduous work and determination that went into the construction of this enduring labour of love.

Meander down the tree-lined path called Lovers Lane to the entrance of a tunnel dug into a small hill. Once popular with courting couples, this tunnel is now closed to the public and provides a valuable protected habitat for a colony of microbats. Wander a network of picturesque leafy pathways to discover a bamboo forest, touch the towering trunks of kauri trees, explore the textures and aromas of the scented garden, and listen to the soothing sound of waterfalls. Take time out to play in the grassy meadow, or feed the fish and turtles in the clear waters of Mena Creek. There’s sure to be something here for everyone!

The Evening Experience

The dream continues after nightfall with the magical Paronella Park Evening Experience. This light and sound spectacular is completely powered by waterfall, care of a fully restored 1930s hydroelectric generator. This after-dark experience helps visitors reimagine the splendour of the Park in its glory days of the mid 1900s, as Jose hosted theatre evenings and grand occasions within the elaborate grounds. The evening culminates with a stirring light and sound display featuring classical scores designed to share the tumultuous history of the Park through multi-sensory storytelling techniques.

For those wishing to stay a little longer, the Paronella Caravan and Camping Grounds invites guests of Paronella Park to enjoy one free night’s accommodation in your own vehicle or tent when you purchase Park admission. On-site cabins are also available for an additional cost.

Ease of Access

This unique experience is made more accessible through guided tours and the availability of the self-guided audio commentary available on their app. Vehicle lifts are available for customers who may not feel comfortable descending the 47-step grand staircase that links the two levels of the Park grounds. Paronella Park offers a range of multi-sensory opportunities, from the feel of fingerprints left by its founders to the varied sounds and scents of the lush rainforest gardens, and the storytelling soundscape of the Evening Experience.

Unique and unforgettable, Paronella Park provides a one-of-a-kind experience that’s sure to intrigue and inspire. Come and experience the magic that happens when one man dares to dream!