Paronella Park

Paronella Park

  • 🏰 Historic Spanish-style castle built in the 1930s by JosĂŠ Paronella beside Mena Creek Falls
  • 🌿 5 hectares of lush rainforest gardens, bridges, tunnels, fountains, and picnic spots
  • 💡 Queensland’s first hydroelectric plant, still powering the park today
  • 🎟️ Entry includes day and night tours, with a 24-month return pass
  • 🌌 Darkness Falls night tour showcases the ruins and waterfall illuminated under the stars
  • 🐢 Fish and turtle feeding at the weir, plus rainforest birds and butterflies to spot
  • 🛣️ Located just 1 hour 40 minutes south of Cairns—perfect for a self-drive or guided day trip.

A Spanish castle in the tropical rainforest beside Mena Creek Falls

Nestled approximately 90 minutes south of Cairns in Mena Creek, Paronella Park is a storybook treasure set across 5 hectares of heritage-listed landscape—complete with a grand Spanish-style castle, two waterfalls, enchanting gardens, bridges, tunnels, and a hydroelectric system. It’s one of Tropical North Queensland’s most magical attractions, blending romance, history, and eco-adventure perfectly.

🏰 Built with Love & Vision

Spanish immigrant José Paronella bought the land in 1929 and tirelessly constructed his dream—a castle, picture theatre, rainforest gardens, tunnels, and tennis court—all powered by Queensland’s first private hydroelectric plant built using Mena Creek Falls.

🌿 Gardens, Waterfalls & Architecture

Wander along winding paths, bamboo groves, bridges, and secret vantage points that reveal glittering waterfalls. The castle’s ivy-clad walls, staircases, and courtyard fountains evoke a sense of mystery and discovery at every turn.

💡 Eco‑Restoration & Power

After suffering damage from floods, fire, and cyclones, the park was lovingly restored from 1993 by Mark and Judy Evans. Today, it proudly runs on hydroelectric power, won multiple eco-tourism awards, and remains eco-certified—truly continuing José’s green legacy.

🎟️ Guided Tours & Visitor Experience

Admission includes a 45-minute “Dream Continues” guided walk, frequent storytelling tours, and access to garden trails and viewing platforms. Don’t miss the “Darkness Falls” evening tour—where floodlights breathe magic into the ruins and waterfall after sunset.

🐸 Wildlife & Family Fun

Spot rainforest birds, feed fish and turtles at the weir, or explore hidden tunnels and picnic areas. The park is family-friendly, with accessible paths and engaging stories about José and Margarita Paronella’s romantic vision.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Paronella Park

Is Paronella Park suitable for all ages?
Yes! The park is family-friendly with accessible walkways, shaded rest areas, and stories that captivate visitors of all ages.

What’s included in the entry ticket?
Your ticket includes a guided day tour, the magical night tour (Darkness Falls), access to the gardens, fish feeding, suspension bridge, and a 24-month return pass.

Can I buy food and drinks at the park?
Yes. There’s a small café on-site offering light meals, drinks, and coffee. You can also bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas.

How long should I allow for a visit?
Most guests spend around 2–3 hours, or half a day if staying for both the day and night tours. If you’re planning a full day trip from Cairns, you can combine it with nearby attractions like Josephine Falls or Etty Bay.

Do I need to book in advance?
Bookings are recommended during busy holiday periods, especially if you’d like to stay for the night tour.

📌 Plan Your Visit

  • Location: 1671 Innisfail–Japoon Road, Mena Creek (20 min from Innisfail).
  • Opening hours: Daily 9 am–7:30 pm (closed Christmas Day)
  • Entry: Tickets include all daytime and night tours; valid for 24 months with unlimited return visits.
  • Getting there: Rent a car or join full-day tours from Cairns—including waterfalls and Tablelands circuits.

🌌 Why Visit Paronella Park?

Paronella Park is not just a place to see—it’s a story to feel. It’s a blend of romance, pioneering spirit, and ecological restoration. Whether you visit by day or linger into the night, the moss-covered ruins, rainforest backdrop, and hydro-powered fountains create an experience you’ll never forget.

Highlights

Paronella Park by Day

Paronella Park

On arrival, you will be taken on a 45-minute tour of the grounds to get you started. Then you have as long as you like to wander around. You will have many fabulous photo opportunities. Be impressed by the remarkable architecture. Learn all about the history in the museum. Wander through 5ha of tropical gardens. Visit the fully restored 1930s hydroelectric generator. Enjoy the local wildlife, feed the fish and eels.

Paronella Park by Night

Paronella Park

In the evening, you can join The Darkness Falls Tour, included in your entry fee. Paronella Park comes alive at night when all the structures are glowing from the floodlighting. There will be spectacular photo opportunities on this tour.

Included

  • Souvenir Guide Book/Map
  • Fish food to feed the fish and eels.
  • Umbrellas to explore the park if raining.
  • A 35 minute guided walk of the park. Your guide will point out the highlights and tell you the amazing story of Jose Paronella and his dream. These frequently depart throughout the day.
  • The Darkness Falls Tour. Unlock the secrets of Paronella Park at night. A 1-hour tour, departing at 6:15 pm every night.
  • Botanical Walk. 16-page self-guiding booklet and map.

Optional Extras

2 Park Pass Upgrade (Paronella Park AND Mamu Tropical Skywalk entry)

How to get there

Paronella Park is open daily from 9.00 am to 7.30 pm. It is located 1671 Innisfail Japoon Rd, Mena Creek QLD 4871

Driving from Cairns (120 km)

When driving from Cairns, be sure to head to Mena Creek; take the “OLD” Bruce Highway after Innisfail.

Paronella Park

Driving from Atherton Tablelands (106 km)

When driving from the Tablelands, go down the Palmerston Highway. Turn right at the bottom of the hill onto Japoon Road. Follow the signage to Paronella Park.

Important Information

Mobility Restrictions

  • The park is set on two levels, joined by a 47-step staircase. There is a courtesy vehicle available for guests to use if they can not use the stairs. It is a 4WD vehicle, so the guests will need to get in and out of the car.
  • If visiting with a pram or stroller, we advise you to bring a carrier. If you bring a pram, it’s better to have one with larger wheels.

Departs

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