Australians dreaming of a European winter getaway may not need to board a long-haul flight this season, with Melbourne offering its own slice of the French Alps through a new partnership between Fondue Chalet and DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne.
As rising airfares, inflation pressures and ongoing geopolitical uncertainty force many travellers to reconsider overseas holidays, the new collaboration is positioning Melbourne as Australia’s answer to a European winter city break.
Returning to Federation Square from 14 May for a limited season, Fondue Chalet will once again transform the heart of the city into a glowing Alpine-style village complete with private wooden chalets, French-inspired hospitality and traditional mountain cuisine.
Operated by a French team, the immersive experience recreates the atmosphere of a classic Alpine winter evening, centred around fondue, raclette and communal dining traditions synonymous with the French Alps.
To extend the experience beyond dinner, DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne has launched specially themed winter chalet-style accommodation packages designed to transport guests straight into a European-style retreat.
The hotel’s transformed Winter Chalet Loft Rooms feature seasonal décor, cosy interiors and indulgent winter touches including a free-flowing hot chocolate station and breakfast in bed for two.
Guests booking the package will also receive a 15 per cent discount to the Fondue Chalet experience.
Founder of Fondue Chalet Vincent Hernandez said the concept captures the social traditions at the heart of Alpine culture.
“Across France and the Alps, fondue and raclette bring millions of people together around the table every winter. It’s what we simply call the joy of the table,” Hernandez said.
“In France they are not just meals, they are moments shared with family and friends. Seeing that same ritual happening here in Melbourne is incredibly special.”
The experience taps into growing demand for shorter domestic escapes that still deliver a sense of immersion and novelty, particularly as many Australians seek alternatives to costly international travel.
The Fondue Chalet season runs until 31 August, with chalet dining packages starting from $79 per person. Chalets accommodate groups of six or eight guests, while children under six dine free.
The DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne winter package is also available through to 31 August via the hotel’s official website.
