PARONELLA PARK EXPERIENCE

Picking you up from your accommodation at the Beaches or in Cairns we commence the tour at 11.15am embarking on a 45 min journey south to our first destination Babinda Boulders.  A fresh water gorge with running water from the foot hills of Queensland's tallest mountain is this stunning location that reveals a history of culture, dense tropical rainforest, wildlife and birdlife. Our stop here includes a interpretive guided tour to Devils pools or the opportunity to swim in the pristine waters in the swimming hole. 

We continue further south toward Innisfail enjoy the scenic tour and the commentary of the surrounding agriculture and history of Innisfail township. Driving through the town is a step back in time passing the colourful Art Deco buildings that line the main streets of Innisfail.   

Making our way toward the coastline we take the scenic route viewing Mourilyan Harbour the local port exporting raw sugar, and molasses from Babinda, Innisfail, Tully and the Atherton Tablelands. 

Driving over the headland you see the beautiful coral sea as we meander down the range to the beachside of Etty Bay where the rainforest meets the reef. Stopping here to enjoy a beach walk and afternoon tea keeping your eyes on the lookout for one of the local Cassowary's often seen strolling along the beach or resting under the shade of the trees.  Your guide will share some interesting facts of the characteristics and behaviours of this unique bird that habitat in this area.  

Continuing on through the South Johnston area passing farm lands of bananas and cattle we arrive at Paronella Park and are welcomed by the Paronella Park staff.  Taken on a 30 minute tour of the upper level of the park by the guide at Paronella Park you learn the inspiring story of Jose Paronella and his immense work of creation that have been well maintained and preserved over the years.  The park covers 13 acres of lush tropical rainforest, creeks and waterfalls all pathed through landscaped gardens for you to enjoy a good hour of exploring and feeding the fish, eels and turtles.  Joining your guide for an early dinner at 5pm at the Mena Creek Hotel an authentic country pub for a relaxing enjoyable meal.  After dinner you guide will take you across the suspension bridge crossing over the Mena Creek falls a stunning photo looking down across the lower level of Paronella Park. As you enter back into the park your guide Simon, will share his personal history with Paronella Park of his  Grandfathers experience working for Jose during the building Paronella Park.  

Rejoining your Paronella Park guide your are handed torches to embark on the majestic experience of seeing the waterfall and park at night powered by hydro electricity.  Your guide takes you into the ballroom, now open roofed with the massive mirror ball a spectacular view spinning under the stars, shine an array of illuminated lights across the floor.  Heading down the grand stairwell to be seated to relax and enjoy this time an evening under the stars in the middle of the rainforest for the epic end of night grand finale of the orchestrual Spanish Castle light show. 

Making our way back to the bus for a relaxing drive back into Cairns your guide will play a podcast of current owner Mark Evans telling his journey of challenges and achievements of Paronella Park an interesting interview via the ABC.