Paronella Park began with a dream.

José Paronella’s dream was to build a castle, and he did it. On five acres of lush rainforest beside the Mena Creek Falls he created a romantic castle and gardens with a love tunnel and dedicated it to his beloved wife, Margarita. That was back in 1929, and when José passed away his children took on the work of maintaining it until they, too passed. In 1993 Mark and Judy Evans bought it and began to lovingly restore José Paronella’s dream.

Today, Paronella Park is a photographer’s paradise and a romantic place to stroll through. The dream continues…

If your visit to Paronella Park will be part of a romantic getaway, a suitably romantic place to stay is the Misty Mountains Rainforest Retreat. Tucked away in the rainforest of Wooroonooran National Park, just 45 minutes to the north, and ten minutes from the Great Barrier Reef, you have the place to yourself. The luxury Blue Lagoon Villa includes a pool, the Eco-Lodge is a hillside studio, and The Hideaway is a one bedroom bungalow beneath ancient figs by a stream.

NOTE: If you are camping (and that includes caravans and campervans) your campsite is included in your entry to Paronella Park. Book ahead on 07 4065 0000.

Paronella Park is part of the Misty Mountains Loop encircling the Wooroonooran National Park and taking in swimming holes, waterfalls, attractions, campgrounds and special places to stay. Each point on the map links through to a blog about it.

More Information

• Paronella Park website.
• Camping around Paronella Park
• Planning a road trip but don’t have a campervan? Consider renting one. They start at $49 per day all inclusive and there are plenty of free and low cost campervan-friendly campsites and caravan parks in the region including Babinda, Wooroonooran National Park and the Atherton Tablelands.
• Romantic Getaway: If this is a romantic trip – perhaps you’re popping the Big Question or are celebrating your honeymoon – Misty Mountain Rainforest Retreat is a luxurious hidden gem tucked away in the rainforest right in the middle of the Misty Mountains Loop.