When you picture Kryal Castle Suites modernity and glamour aren’t what necessary come to mind. Yet nonetheless that’s exactly what you’ll find at the well outfitted theme hotel situated right in the heart of Kryal Castle medieval theme park. We visited on a Friday night, as a welcome escape from the weekly grind. It’s an almost magical experience(especially at night) when you arrive at the grounds, squirreling through a secret doorway into the vast, silent grounds of the park. Walking through the castle, to your royal abode, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d been transported to another, simpler time. We had an interconnecting spa and family suite. Both rooms were large, with high ceilings and spacious surrounds, and featured all the typical mod cons. The spa baths provides a welcome retreat for weary couples. The rooms themselves are equipped with very comfy, warm beds(with electric blankets to escape the winter chill), flat screen televisions, lovely tall wardrobes and cute kitschy cool additions like comfy faux fur blankets, hanging tapestries and elegant Gothic capped windows featuring truly stunning view of Ballarat. Wi-fi is free and fast and television channels are limited but being able to wander the deserted castle grounds is entertaining in itself. Breakfast at the bakery is tasty, if a tad expensive. You’re best bet is to opt for one of the set meals — ranging from $ 8 — $ 15, without extras. Expect typical café style fare. The staff who run the suites are also friendly, hospitable and a pleasure to deal with. One of the best things about staying at the Kryal Castle suites was that entry into the park the following day was included in the price. My whole family — ranging in age from 12 to 55 — thoroughly enjoyed our day in this primitive wonderland. Though probably not an entire day’s worth there are numerous sights on offer. All the would-be-heroes in my family loved trying(and failing) to free the sword from its stone. The hilarious headstones in the graveyard are also worth browsing(and chuckling) through. There are numerous shops available though, unfortunately, some of them are closing soon in favour of children’s party rooms. I found the staff lovely, always up for a chat and a great interactive addition to the park. However by far the best offering at Kryal Castle are the shows — offering amazing, interesting, hilarious and just plain entertaining distraction for everyone. The jousting is terribly impressive and absolutely unmissable. The skill on show is truly a sight to be seen. Kryal Castle is a great family outing for any and all. At the right price it’s an unmissable weekend hotspot. We had a wonderful family stay at Kryal Castle Suites and will definitely be returning. For those seeking a magical escape you’d be hard pressed to find somewhere offering such great warmth, comfort and value for money.
Chris L.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Melbourne, Australia
Really excellent family entertainment. The Jousting is thrilling! I thought it might be cheesy but it is well done all round. As a GoT lover there was an extra element that made it seem all the better. Also the Hurdy Gurdy man was brilliant. Nothing like the old tired place it had become before the refurbishment.
Craig W.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Ararat, Australia
A fantastic family day out at the castle Adventure Park. There was plenty to do with a show schedule that kept us moving around the castle all day. The staff were very friendly and enjoyed play-acting with the kids! The castle is well built and maintained, I was surprised by the attention to detail. it was easy to walk around between the activities and find the locations /facilities required. The food and service in the Mountain Bakery were a little lacking as several foods on the menu were not available and there were delays even though we had a very small crowd on the day. Overall the kids enjoyed themselves and we got lots of great pics!
Chris B.
Rating des Ortes: 5 Parkville, Melbourne, Australia
Both a mediaeval theme park and wonderful hotel. We stayed and found the whole place has been refurbed to make it like new. Or old new, as it’s meant to be ancient. The hotel room was world class with massive soft beds with crisp linen and shiny new bathrooms with fluffy towels and magnificent shower. Food and drink prices must have been stuck in the eighties as full meals in the Tavern were $ 20 and large, beers, including James Squire were only $ 5. Stay here, have a meal, breakfast was included too in the room price. All that and free entry to the park itself. If you’re looking to stay near Ballarat, this is the best B&B you’ll find for this price. Was only $ 145 a night midweek.