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Paronella Park
4.7
5963 reviewsAbout
Everyone has a dream. José Paronella's dream became a reality. On five hectares beside Mena Creek Falls he built his castle, a picnic area by the falls, tennis courts, bridges, a tunnel, and wrapped it up in an amazing range of 7,500 tropical plants and trees. He even harnessed the waterfall for his electricity. Paronella Park opened to the public in 1935.
Today, visitors to the park marvel at the achievements of one man.
Admission to Paronella Park is valid for 24 months and covers both the tours. There is a 35 minute guided walk that explains the extraordinary story and takes you through the highlights of the park, as well as the stunning Darkness Falls Tour where the castles and waterfall are flood-lit to allow for amazing photo opportunities.
Admission also includes the souvenir guide book, fish food, umbrellas, access to the online photo gallery, as well as a site for one night in the adjacent van park.
Hours
See listed hours
Daily: 09:00–19:30
Facilities and visitor features
38 featuresDisabled access available, contact operator for details.
Nearby places
Reviews & Ratings
Kellie Neal
Google review
Absolutely stunning, one of my favourite tourist destinations in Australia. We went in late April around 3:30 and the gentleman at the counter was helpful and friendly. (I think his name was Neil) We had a quick look around and bought some scones with tropical jam (very delicious) while we waited for our 4pm tour to start. Yana our tour guide was extremely knowledgeable and did a fantastic job. I think the tour is essential to do if you come here as you'll have a greater appreciation for all the work involved in creating this amazing place and it explains what the buildings were used for. The lighting was beautiful at the time of day we did the tour and you didn't have long to wait for the night show to start. ( We walked to the pub in-between!) The night show isn't a tour with info, it's more about seeing the place lit up at night so don't miss the day tour thinking you will get the same info at night. This place definitely shouldn't be missed if you are going to visit Cairns and the surrounding area.
Effie B
Google review
This park is a definite must-see for tourists, plant lovers, history lovers, waterfall lovers, and those who love a great story. I was amazed at the story of Jose and his guts and confidence in building the park. He was ahead of his time with his technology too. The building ruins are wonderful to see and the plants/trees are magical. Feeding the turtles is a cute activity. Take a moment to view the museum and then linger longer in the many pathways to admire and explore. I hope to see some more restoration soon!
Tracey Wishart
Google review
ABSOLUTELY wonderful day and night spent here. Yana tour guide for both was entertaining, knowledgeable and had many details to share. Mark (owner) started our night tour and as he stated, it's a marvelous place on its own but the history adds a memorable experience. Who knew a migrant pastry chef from Spain could turn a Queensland spectacular waterfall into a park full of castles, surprises and every thing built with a view of the waterfalls. They run and maintain purely on guest admissions so tell everyone.
RimRex
Google review
We had a really nice stay at Paronella Park. The tour guides are friendly and great storytellers. It's a pleasure to sit in the garden and just let your soul rest. The campground is clean and easy to find your way around. The admission is for 2 Years. And one night on the campground is free of charge.
Brooke Davis
Google review
Thanks to the team at Paronella Park! We came in yesterday and were not disappointed. Such an interesting tour with the knowledgeable Vicki, and the owner even greeted us at the gate (which we found out later). I will definitely be recommending to anyone I know looking for recommendations in the area. GORGEOUS!
Get in touch
Where you'll be
Japoonvale Road
Mena Creek QLD 4871