We’re well into the winter season, which means it’s time to chase the snow, look out for whales, and if you’re a foodie, indulge in truffles. The colder months are the perfect time to start harvesting and indulging in pungent black truffles. Take a short drive away from Melbourne, and unearth these elusive delights with the help of some adorable truffle dogs and their passionate humans at truffières around Victoria. Go truffle hunting near Melbourne, then stay a little longer and graze on truffle-focused dishes. Whether you’re a truffle connoisseur, a first-timer, or just a dog lover, you’ll have fun truffle hunting near Melbourne. Just remember to rug up and wear shoes that you wouldn’t mind getting a bit muddy.
Truffle hunting near Melbourne
Gembrook Truffles
Drive about an hour from the CBD to Gembrook Truffles, a truffle farm in the Dandenong Ranges. There, you’ll go truffle hunting and learn more about the growing process. You’ll be accompanied by the darling dogs, Willow and Rosie. There will be fresh truffles and truffle trees available to purchase and take home. This experience will take about two hours. A truffle hunting and tasting session for groups of over 20 people is also available. Find out more.
📍Main St, Gembrook VIC 3783
Red Hill Truffles
For truffle hunting near Melbourne, you can’t go wrong with Red Hill Truffles. Located on the Mornington Peninsula, over an hour away from Melbourne, you’ll find a variety of truffle experiences to enjoy. Join farm owner Jenny and her delightful truffle hunting dogs, and learn all about the joys of harvesting these tasty treats. Follow the hunt with indulgent foodie experiences and tastings, like a gourmet lunch or dinner. Cooking classes are also available. See what’s on here.
📍235 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill VIC 3937
Truffle Treasures
If you’d rather head west of Melbourne instead of east, visit Truffle Treasures near Daylesford. Warm up by the cosy woodfire and sip on a hot cup of tea or coffee, while learning about the history of truffles. Then, go on a truffle hunt, and watch their doggos Abbie and Holly show off their skills. After finding truffles, head back indoors for three-course tastings.
You can also visit their farm gate on weekends to purchase their products directly. Otherwise, head to the winter markets in Ballan every second Saturday of each winter month, to get your hands on their truffle goods. Learn more here.
📍68 Sultana Rd, Spargo Creek VIC 3461
Black Cat Truffles
Find plenty of truffle hunting and dining experiences at Black Cat Truffles. Located just 90 minutes from Melbourne, and 15 minutes from Ballarat, this working truffle farm offers cool experiences to try during the winter months. Opt for a classic, one hour guided truffle hunt, or elevate your day out with a six-course degustation menu on Saturdays and Sundays. There’s also truffle hunting with cider on arrival and a grazing menu to try on select afternoons.
If you don’t feel like foraging around the farm, you can always pop into the restaurant and indulge in seasonal dishes and set menus. Learn more here.
📍150 Howards Rd, Wattle Flat VIC 3352
The Truffle House
Drive about 90 minutes away from Melbourne to The Truffle House in South Gippsland. This farm offers a Truffle Hunt & Taste experience during the winter months. Warm up with a ‘shot’ of truffle soup by the fire. Then, follow the truffle dogs between the French oaks, and watch them unearth these yummy treats. After that, head indoors for a range of truffle dishes. Select wines, fresh truffles and truffle products will be available for purchase on the day. Learn more here.
📍840 Korumburra-Wonthaggi Rd, Jumbunna VIC 3951