Coming Soon: Federation Square Is Transforming Into a French Alpine Village with Mountain Chalets, Fondue and Mulled Wine
Featuring cheese and chalets imported from France — and even snowfall — this Euro-inspired winter experience will save you a trip to the airport.
Don't have the time (or money) to hit the French Alps this year? Ne t'inquiète pas, because Fed Square is transforming into a French alpine village with the all-new Fondue Chalet takeover. Held for six weeks from Thursday, May 15 to Sunday, June 22, this immersive and oh-so-cosy experience is your chance to feast on traditionally prepared cheese fondue and mulled wine in a private chalet, but from the heart of Melbourne.
Brought to town by BBR Group Australia — the same team behind 2023's hugely popular Raclette Igloo Experience — this city-bound après-ski encounter will see 18 private wooden chalets, accommodating six to eight guests, dotted throughout Fed Square. Each chalet boasts its own fire pit, which you and your pals can sit around and prepare your own fondue knowing there'll be plenty to go around — the team has imported two tonnes of from France for the experience.
You'll be tucking into a rich blend of alpine cheese from a recipe crafted in collaboration with French cheesemongers, including comté, beaufort, emmental and vacherin. They'll be melted down in a bubbling combination of white wine, kirsch and spices and served alongside a generous charcuterie board. Be sure to save room for dessert — you'll be treated to chocolate fondue, created from top-quality Belgian chocolate and served with seasonal fruits and other sweet treats.
"Fondue Chalet is all about bringing people together," says Vincent Hernandez, founder and managing director of BBR Group Australia. "It's an authentic French winter tradition to share a fondue with your loved ones after a day in the mountains. After seeing how much Melbourne fell in love with our Raclette Igloo Experience, we decided to take it a step further by importing chalets and alpine cheeses from France to recreate this unique melted cheese experience from the Alps, right here in Fed Square."
Meanwhile, Fondue Chalet couldn't replicate a true après-ski experience without the presence of a fully stocked bar. Exclusive to fondue ticket holders, the Ski Bar will be shaking up French winter cocktails and pouring fine French wines and other hot drinks, ideal for keeping warm on a chilly night. If you really want to lean into the French way, order a digestif to help settle your fondue feast.
Designed for maximum winter warmth, you might think the only thing missing from this alpine-inspired adventure is falling snow — but they've got that covered, too. Tickets are available for $99pp, or $109pp for the cheese and chocolate experience.
Fondue Chalet is taking place from Thursday, May 15 to Sunday, June 22 at Federation Square. Head to the event website for more information.
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