Great news – you don’t need a passport in order to make your dream a reality. A unique winter pop-up in Melbourne is melting hearts… as well as authentic French cheese.

Nearly 1000 guests flocked to the Fondue Chalet at Fed Square in Melbourne on the weekend, to experience the start of the indulgent culinary event.

The unique après-ski experience runs for six weeks only, from May 15 to June 22, so you’ll have to be quick if you’re craving a delicious French experience minus the long-haul flight.

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The event is brought to life by BBR Group Australia, the creators of Melbourne’s Raclette Igloo Experience in 2023.

There are a total of 18 private wooden chalets for groups of six to eight people, each with its own fire pit. Guests are able to dine inside their private chalet and toast marshmallows by the fire while listening to music.

Cheese connoisseurs can taste authentic fondue from Savoie, France, paired with crunchy bread and cured meats for a memorable foodie experience. You can also choose from a selection of French wines or cocktails.

Related recipe: French cheese pastries (Gougeres)

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For those seeking more detail about the fondue, the traditional French alpine recipe is a blend of Comté, Beaufort, Emmental and Vacherin, melted together and accompanied by a splash of white wine, a hint of kirsch and a dash of spices.

It’s served alongside generous charcuterie boards, and is followed by silky chocolate fondue made with Belgian chocolate.

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For the ultimate French experience, order a digestif – a traditional after-dinner shot of liquor or liqueur.

The experience costs $99 per person, with a minimum of six guests and maximum of eight per chalet, while children under the age of six eat for free. The Chocolate fondue costs an extra $59 for six people or $79 for eight.

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