As winter sets in, the Canberra region offers up Australia's world class truffle experience, right in the heart of the national capital. There's no better time to savour the city's most aromatic season and taste your way through the many offerings the area has to offer.

With rich soil, frosty mornings and passionate producers, the Canberra region delivers some of Australia's most prized black truffles and is one of the few places outside of Western Europe (and the only Australian capital) where these sought-after delicacies, fetching up to $2,000 per kilo, are grown. In addition to truffles hunts, one of the highlights of Canberra's vibrant truffle calendar is the Southern Harvest Winter Market taking place on 28th July, where you can celebrate the season and meet the region's growers all in one place.

Offering paddock-to-plate experiences to twilight feasts beneath the stars, this truffle season is an unmissable celebration of food, land and flavour. Typically lasting only three months (from June to August), the season sees local properties such as Beltana Farm and The Truffle Farm offer a number of exciting experiences, from truffle hunts with expertly trained dogs to exquisite on-site dining.

Read on for your go-to guide for sniffing out the best of truffle season in Canberra this winter.

BELTANA FARM
Nestled among sprawling oak and hazelnut trees, just 10 minutes from the city, Beltana Farm is Australia's premier truffle farm which truly comes to life each season from late June through to August. Offering a number of truffle experiences, allowing visitors to see for themselves how truffles are grown, take part in a live truffle hunt and taste the recently harvested delicacies within their on-site restaurant.

After Dark Truffle Fest
20th June, tickets at $150pp
Celebrate the season's opening with twilight canapés on the terrace amidst the glowing lights across the truffière, followed by a hearty shared feast ending on a sweet, truffle-laced note.

Hunt & Lunch
Available every Saturday & Sunday from mid-June to mid-August, Cost $220pp
Combining hunting and feasting, join a guided truffle hunt followed by a long-table feast in the farm's restaurant. The ultimate paddock-to-plate experience, the price covers the hunt and lunch, with drinks available to purchase on the day.

Hunt & Cooking Class
Available every Saturday from mid June to mid-August, Cost $150pp
Join the Beltana Farm team for a truffle hunting experience followed by a culinary masterclass that includes a cooking demonstration showcasing innovative ways to incorporate truffles into homemade dishes. Enjoy a sample of a homestyle recipes paired with a glass of sparkling wine after the hunt.

THE TRUFFLE FARM
Tucked into the Majura Valley and lined with over 8,000 oak trees, this boutique farm blends education, adventure and indulgence with every bite. The property hosts three signature ticketed events throughout winter, each designed to connect you to the land, the hunt and the artistry of truffle-infused cuisine.

Truffle Hunt
Available every Saturday & Sunday from June to August, Cost $75pp
Watch the adorable truffle dogs at work and learn how these delicacies are unearthed, handled, and prepared before making their way to market and to being served at some of Australia's best restaurants. The experience concludes with a tasting and chance to shop the freshest finds.

Truffle Hunt & Brunch
Available every Saturday & Sunday from June to August, Cost $175pp
After an exhilarating hunt, indulge in a three-course truffle brunch with a complimentary beverage, plus have the opportunity to purchase fresh truffles and other farm-made products. A relaxed, gourmet way to start your weekend.

Truffle Hunt & Lunch
Available every Saturday & Sunday from June to August, Cost $250pp
Join the Truffle Farm team (and dogs) on an exhilarating truffle hunt experience through the forest of 8,000 oak and hazelnut trees. Once the perfect truffle is found, guests will head back to the warmth of the restaurant for a decadent seven-course degustation lunch with paired beverages curated by Executive Chef, Kanharith Kim. Her team prepares the truffle dishes in front of you, divulging all the secrets to cooking with truffles at home.

As truffle season unfolds, Canberra's top restaurants will also be showcasing these delicious treasures throughout the city. Offering visitors and locals a chance to embark on a culinary journey through degustations and seasonal menu offerings to savour the essence of the season's truffle trail.

ENDS

For media information, please contact:
Christina Atherton
Eight Communications
Tel: +61 418 428 177
christina@eightcommunications.com.au

For international media enquiries, please contact:
Donna Ciaccia
VisitCanberra
Tel: +61 418 691 020
donna.ciaccia@act.gov.au