How to explore Paronella Park in a day
How-to
By Kim Barnard
Step into our World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics rainforest and you're sure to be mesmerised. But there's one little corner that takes enchanting to the next level - and it's all thanks to a man and his dream to build a castle amongst the trees.
Paronella Park is a fairytale-like landmark in our tropical north, which came about when José Paronella first visited the land in 1914, then purchased it in 1929 with a mission to make it a magical destination for the public. Open since 1935, it’s been doing just that for decades; attracting curious visitors from all over the world looking for an experience they can’t get anywhere else.
Covering five hectares of land next to Mena Creek Falls south of Cairns, Paronella Park is a sight to behold. With a lush rainforest made up of 7,500 tropical plants and trees, tranquil waterfalls, bridges and tunnels, it’s no wonder TripAdvisor has named this one of Australia’s best parks.
Ready to visit? Here's how to explore Paronella Park in just one day.
How to get to Paronella Park
Paronella Park, near Cairns
A day trip to Paronella Park calls for an early rise: this landmark is 120 kilometres south of Cairns and 280 kilometres north of Townsville.
Having your own vehicle is the easiest way to get here. If travelling from Cairns, head toward Mena Creek; take the Old Bruce Highway after Innisfail (instead of turning right). Paronella Park is just a one-and-a-half hour drive from Cairns Airport.
If coming from Townsville, take the ‘Silkwood’ exit on the Bruce Highway and follow Canecutter Way. From Townsville Airport, you’ll spend three hours on the road.
Don't have a car? Several coach tours include Paronella Park in full day tours that depart Cairns, such as Far North Escapes, Tropic Tours and Northern Experience Eco Tours.
Be introduced to Paronella Park
Paronella Park, near Cairns
The best way to start your day at Paronella Park is to get your bearings on the 30-minute long 'The Dream Continues' daytime tour where you’ll be guided through the park’s many highlights. Hear countless stories about the Paronella family and founder José, and their amazing journey towards making Paronella Park what it is today.
You’ll get an excellent taste of the diversity the park offers—including incredible architecture, tropical gardens, wildlife (expect lots of birds and butterflies), North Queensland’s first hydro electric plant, and a museum delving into the rich history of the location.
Tours depart every 30 minutes between 9:30am and 4:30pm.
Explore on a self-guided botanical walk
Paronella Park, near Cairns
Pick up one of the local maps and a souvenir guide book, and go plant spotting. While trees are the most prevalent flora in the rainforest - all of which have been pre-labelled for your info - you’ll encounter many other plant forms as well.
Get ready to be wowed by the abundance of vines, orchids, palms, ferns and lillies that fill the forest. And keep an eye out for native nutmeg and Queensland-exclusive trees, like maple, Kauri Pine and walnut.
Fuel up on good food
Paronella Park, near Cairns
There are two places to enjoy a delicious meal at Paronella Park —the Cafe on the Deck and The Mena Creek Hotel. The cafe, serving fresh food and refreshing fruit smoothies, is open daily. Dig into a sandwich or wrap before treating yourself to a sweet slice of cake. Make sure to try the locally sourced tea or banana smoothie made with bananas from a local plantation.
Or, BYO picnic and blanket, and enjoy it in the beautiful grounds of Paronella Park.
Only 200 metres from the park, The Mena Creek Hotel is a traditional Queenslander-style country pub open from midday until 8pm. Perfect for a hearty meal at a good price if you're sticking around for a night tour.
Take in waterfall views
The Falls at Paronella Park, near Cairns
See Paronella Park from a different angle at The Falls. Walk over the suspension bridge, which hovers over one of Queensland’s best waterfalls, for a stunning view of the park. This is a unique opportunity that’s not to be missed - and it's even more dramatic after a little summer rain.
Visit the museum
In José’s Cottage, located to the right of the park entrance, is a museum bursting with stories from the past. Discover the original projector that beamed films onto the hall walls and old signs advertising the park as ‘the prettiest spot on earth’. You can even flick through José and his wife Margarita’s family album.
Explore when darkness falls
Paronella Park castle, near Cairns
Captivated by Paronella Park by day? Just wait ‘til you see it at night. The Darkness Falls tour will reveal the secrets and delights that only come out when the sun goes down, along with a sound and light display that makes an incredible photo opportunity - and great memories too.
This hour-long tour is included in your ticket price.
Admission information
Paronella Park is open every day of the year from 9am to 7:30pm, except for Christmas Even and Christmas Day.
Tickets include the following:
- Souvenir Guide Book/Map
- The Dream Continues Tour
- The Darkness Falls Tour
- Botanical Walk
Ticket prices are below.
- Adult - $55
- Pensioners - $50
- Child (5-15 years) - $31
- 2 Adults + 2 Children - $162
- 2 Adults + 3 Children - $171
Want to stay close to the action? Paronella Park is home to on-site cabins, caravan and camping grounds - or you can discover nearby accommodation options here.
If Paronella Park has kick-started your heart for more adventure, discover more thrilling experiences among Queensland's ancient Wet Tropics.
