Okay, full disclosure: I’ve spent way too much time daydreaming about castles. The kind with drawbridges, secret staircases and turrets that make you feel like royalty (preferably without the medieval plague). Sure, the world’s iconic castles are nestled in Wales, France and Spain, but Australia quietly flexes its own quirky, fairytale-worthy gems.
From rainforest chalets to unexpected palaces, here are Australia’s most charming, cheeky, and downright magical castles that’ll have you packing your bags faster than you can say 'knight in shining armour'.
Paronella Park
Queensland
A heritage-listed Spanish-style castle in... far north Queensland?! I didn't believe it either, but lo and behold, you'll find the lush, moss-covered ruins of Paronella Park right next to Mena Creek Falls. Built in the 1930s by Spanish dreamer José Paronella, this romantic, jungle-draped spot comes complete with castle ruins, a suspension bridge and its own waterfall descending over seven million-year-old basalt rock
And yes, you can absolutely visit this one. It's open nearly every day until 6pm, but I'd recommend doing the evening experience for an unbelievable long and sound shop.
Thorngrove Manor Castle Hotel
South Australia
I've always wanted to live out my royal-core fantasy with a stay in a castle, and turns I can do it without even leaving the country. Thorngrove Manor Castle Hotel is the whimsical castle-turned-hotel that looks like it’s been plucked straight from the pages of a storybook. Outside, it boasts baroque towers, turrets and a stone brick facade, while the interiors are every bit as extra with gilded antiques, one-of-a-kind artwork and French tapestries fit for a king or queen.
Designed to host just a handful of guests at a time, every couple gets total privacy and a healthy dose of theatrics. Think silver teapots at breakfast, lakeside picnic setups, and afternoon tea in the King’s Chambers that feels like it’s been ripped straight from a Bridgerton montage. If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping in a turret and waking up in a four-poster bed, this is your sign.
The Sol Suite Chalet
Victoria
Set deep in Victoria’s dreamy Dandenong Ranges, The Sol is a chalet-style getaway with all the castle trimmings. This includes an actual drawbridge, castellated stone balconies and an acre of English gardens just waiting to be explored between spa soaks.
Inside, there's a four-poster bed, a Chesterfield lounge and that huge stone spa bath overlooking a gas log fire with aromatic candles and bath salts ready and waiting. I imagine this place would be pure bliss year-round, but a stay during Victoria's cold, wet and woolly winter would be prime time.
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Bishops Palace
Victoria
Bishops Palace doesn’t tiptoe around with subtlety. Sitting pretty in the centre of Ballarat, this 1877 Gothic mansion looms large with four acres of heritage-listed gardens, original 19th-century stencilled paintwork and ornate ceiling roses, offering up everything from private accommodation to private events.
If I were lucky enough to stay here, I'd be exploring the library, playing a game on the antique billiards table, or steaming in the sauna on the dedicated spa pavilion. Ready to trade your everyday for something a little regal flair? Bishops Castle is waiting.
Kryal Castle
Victoria
Just outside Ballarat, this larger-than-life medieval theme park is fully committed to the bit. Like, really committed. We’re talking fully costumed staff who never break character, live jousting tournaments, sword fights, axe-throwing, archery, and just enough actual history to keep things feeling vaguely educational.
You can even spend the night in one of the Castle Rooms, with free after-hours access to the grounds, including Braveheart’s Playground, the Forbidden Stone Maze and an animal pen that’s one dragon short of a fairytale. Sure, it’s a bit kitsch, but trust me, it's a lot of fun for all ages.
Iandra Castle
New South Wales
I didn’t expect to stumble upon a full-blown turreted manor in the middle of rural NSW, but there it was, rising out of the paddocks like a leftover prop from Downton Abbey. Just outside Greenethorpe, this grand Federation-era mansion is all arched windows, manicured gardens, a private chapel, and the kind of unexpected opulence that makes you do a double take.
You can't stay on-site at this one and it’s only open to the public on select days, making it all the more mysterious. With 53 rooms, sprawling grounds and a façade made for photo ops, it’s absolutely worth planning your trip around the open dates.
Amigo’s Castle
New South Wales
In the dusty heart of Lightning Ridge stands Amigo’s Castle—a 15-metre-tall, roofless ruin. Built by local opal miner Vittorio “Amigo” Stefanato in the 1980s, this quirky structure is made from ironstone boulders and is as much art installation as it is architectural oddity.
Of course, this isn't the sort of place I'd be staying overnight. There's no four-poster beds and rich, red drapes here. Instead, you'll find a small gallery showcasing Amigo’s own opal-inspired artwork, plus underground cellars and a turret that’s perfect for pretending you’re a medieval lord surveying your domain. It’s a self-guided tour, so you can explore at your own pace and entry is cash-only. If you're into quirky, offbeat attractions, Amigo’s Castle is a must-see
Sunshine Castle
Queensland
How foolish was I to think the Sunshine Coast was all surf, sand, and sunshine? In addition to the above, it also happens to be home to Australia's largest castle. Welcome to Sunshine Castle in Bli Bli, a medieval marvel that’s been delighting visitors since 1973. Originally built by a Scottish couple to house their fairytale dioramas and doll collection, the castle has evolved into a quirky museum and event venue with plenty of charm and even more character.
Whether you're a history buff, a doll enthusiast or just after a fun day out that’s a little off the beaten path, Sunshine Castle delivers a delightfully different Sunshine Coast experience.
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Image credit: Thorngrove Manor, Paronella Park, Thorngrove Manor, The Sol Suite Chalet, Bishops Palace