As the temperatures drop and fireplaces crackle back to life, one of Queanbeyan-Palerang’s most sought-after winter treasures begins to emerge from beneath the soil.

Truffle season has arrived, bringing with it the chance to pull on your boots, follow the lead of a talented truffle dog and uncover one of the culinary world’s most prized ingredients. From hands-on truffle hunts and gourmet feasts to farmgate experiences and seasonal events, there are plenty of ways to discover why winter is one of the most flavourful times to visit the region.

Truffles, brunch and culinary expertise with Chef Christophe & Josephine

For those who love good food as much as the thrill of the hunt, Chef Christophe & Josephine’s Gourmet Tours and Experiences in Bungendore combines the best of both worlds.

Guests join a guided truffle hunt before settling in for a live cooking demonstration and a truffle-inspired brunch crafted by Chef Christophe. Along the way, you’ll gain insight into how truffles can elevate everyday dishes and have the opportunity to purchase fresh local produce to take home.

Bookings for June onwards are now open

Feast by the fire at Elvesgate

Tucked away in the countryside near Braidwood, Elvesgate Biodynamic Organic Truffle offers an experience that is about much more than finding truffles. Their popular Forage and Feast experience begins beside a crackling fire before guests head into the orchard with Billy the truffle dog in search of freshly ripened black truffles.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the fascinating relationship between soil, trees and fungi, before returning to enjoy a seasonal feast showcasing truffles harvested from the property. Available on selected weekends throughout winter, it’s an experience designed to be savoured slowly.

Bookings now open – limited availability

Unearth black gold at L’air Du Wombat Truffles

Set amongst the rolling countryside near Braidwood, L’air Du Wombat Truffles offers visitors the chance to experience the excitement of a real truffle hunt every weekend throughout winter.

Join experienced truffle dogs as they search beneath the oak trees before learning how truffles are graded and what makes them so highly prized by chefs around the world. Guests can enjoy tastings, hear stories from the farm and even dig up their own truffle, creating a memorable winter experience from start to finish.

Bookings now open for mid June onwards.

Meet Max at Durran Durra Truffles

Looking for a relaxed and authentic introduction to the world of truffles? Durran Durra Truffles, north of Braidwood, offers visitors the opportunity to join resident truffle dog Max as he sniffs out hidden treasures beneath the trees.

Running throughout winter, these small-group hunts provide an insight into truffle growing while allowing visitors to experience the anticipation of watching a trained dog at work. Afterwards, warm up with tastings and learn more about the remarkable underground world of truffles.

Bookings now open for July onwards.

More ways to enjoy local truffles

Beyond the hunt experiences, several local producers continue to play an important role in the region’s growing truffle story.

Turalla Truffles will once again bring their fresh truffles to market throughout the season, including regular appearances at the EPIC Farmers Market. They’ll also host a special truffle degustation at Water Through Reeds Gallery, offering another delicious way to experience the flavours of winter.

Terra Preta continues to supply premium local truffles through selected retailers, helping connect visitors and food lovers with some of the region’s finest seasonal produce.

While Blue Frog Truffles won’t be offering public hunts this season, they remain part of the thriving network of growers contributing to Queanbeyan-Palerang’s reputation as a destination for exceptional local food.

Make a weekend of it

A truffle hunt is just the beginning. Pair your experience with a long lunch, a cosy country stay or a wander through the heritage streets of Bungendore and Braidwood. With cool-climate wines, welcoming country pubs, boutique shopping and plenty of winter charm, Queanbeyan-Palerang offers all the ingredients for a memorable seasonal escape.

Whether you’re digging up your first truffle, enjoying a feast by the fire or sampling the region’s produce at a local market, winter is the perfect time to follow your nose and discover the flavours of Queanbeyan-Palerang.