The Kitchen, Mount Falcon Estate in Ballina

went here for the bird of prey thing 10/10

Disclaimer: I did not receive any kickback for this review. My family did the “Hawk Walk” experience at Mount Falcon. Incredible! Of course you can’t control the behavior & actions of birds, especially Birds of Prey. Daniel, the falconer was exceptional. He was great with our daughter, who also loved the experience. Daniel took time to introduce and explain each bird and their behavior. We were able to see 5 different birds eat, and walked through the woods with Hunter, the hawk. It was an unforgivable experience, for our daughter and my wife and I as well. 10/10

Luxury accomodation in lovely building

We visited the hotel and met family in the beautiful grounds. It was a lovely day weather wise. We were able to see and experience an afternoon of falconry.

We stayed three nights in a lovely large suite, located in the original part of the hotel. The room was great. The hotel and the state experience is a bit odd. In the summer months, the lovely interior restaurant area is not available at dinner, and instead dining is in a huge tent — suitable for large weddings and other big events, we suppose, but not what we were looking for or wanted. The four large TV screens showing golf and football were more appropriate for a large outdoor pub than a fine dining restaurant. The dining itself was quite good, and the portions certainly generous. The young staff was doing its best, but one has the feeling that they are not sufficiently trained or properly supervised. The place apparently caters to small group tours, and we saw a number come and go over three days during our times at breakfast. But apart from that, when we were there in mid June 2025, the place seemed rather surprisingly vacant. One very positive memory: the falconry tour we took on our last day. That, and the beautiful suite, made this visit worthwhile. If we were to return, we would avoid the summer months (and the hugs tent) — and enjoy the interior dining room at dinner.

Love love loved the Hawk Walk! Daniel and Patty spoiled us! We asked all the question, each took a turn holding the falcon and walking the hawk. It was a great time!

Absolutely wonderful estate! The staff was all so helpful and friendly, and the food was fantastic. There’s a lovely walking path that encircles the property (about 1.5 miles) which is perfect for an after-dinner stroll. The mature trees on the estate make it feel almost like an arboretum. It was easy to drive to other points of interest, whether into Foxford or Ballina, or further afield — the location makes it a nice base for day trips. The spa is small but well designed and my massage was absolutely top notch. They don’t cater to kids but there is some stuff that kids would like — for example, the pool, a simple playground made of logs tucked away in the forest, and a grassy area for kicking a ball around. Mount Falcon has a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that just makes you want to relax!

I am resting here for the third year. Very nice place. I would stay here forever.