truffle hunting trip italy

Truffle Hunting – A Unique Experience in Italy

If you’re looking for a guide on truffles and truffle hunting in Italy, this post is for you.

Truffles are an Italian delicacy that no true foodie should miss while visiting the country. Italian truffles, which grow in several different places throughout the country, are highly sought after due to their exceptional aroma and flavor.

In this guide, we’ll discover where to find and sample these delicious natural ingredients, the numerous types of truffles in Italy as well as where and how to hunt them yourself.

Table of Contents

What Are Truffles?

Specifically, truffles belong to the genus Tuber within the fungus kingdom.

In Italian, a truffle is called tartufo (plural: tartufi ).

Most truffles are similar to a rough, irregular circle, resulting from combining a few different pieces. What makes each truffle unique is its distinct combination of color, size, scent, and flavor.

When searching for these tasty tubers, truffle hunters rely on such traits to tell them apart from other mushrooms. The two most vital biological components of a truffle are the peridium and the gleba.

The peridium is the shell that surrounds the truffle. Consider this to be the truffle’s protective shield. This layer defends the truffle against naturally occurring bacteria and fungi that are present in the soil and have the potential to cause damage to the truffle.

When you first cut into a truffle, the part you will see is what you call the gleba. It is the interior that frequently seems veiny.

Where Do Truffles Grow?

Truffles, a type of hypogean fungus, spend their entire lives underground. An Italian hunting dog’s keen sense of smell is indispensable for a day of truffle hunting.

Frequently, black truffles can be found just beneath the soil’s surface. Meanwhile, truffle hunters usually need to dig down between eight and twelve inches to unearth a white truffle. In cooler weather, white truffles can be found as deep as a meter underground. Humidity brings the scent to the surface, where the dog can sniff it.

Truffles require colder, more humid weather. They thrive in the shade of willows, poplars, hazelnut trees, and oaks. Truffles are in forests across northern Piedmont, central Tuscany, Umbria, and Le Marche.

A Brief History of Truffles

Truffles once held a mystique among the original Italian population and were even considered holy. A shortage of information regarding truffles at the time contributed to all of these misconceptions.

Legend says that truffles only flourish at the spots where Zeus hurled his lightning bolts. That’s why ancient people looked to nature as a source of spiritual inspiration.

Even ancient Romans were wondering what on earth a truffle was. The poet Cicero described truffles as the “offspring of Earth,” further establishing its status as a delicacy exclusive to the Romans. This, at least, was the initial consensus on what truffles were like among Italians.

The more time passed, the more people learned about truffles. Truffles remained mysterious until the year 1700 when ideas began to shift. Starting in the banquet dishes of a French prince, it quickly spread throughout Europe as a symbol of wealth and status.

The passing of time sparked a surge in popularity that much outpaced its initial success. Now, it’s a common way for high-end hotels and restaurants to differentiate their menus. Truffles currently fetch a price of between €2500 and €2660 per kg.

Through a truffle hunting tour, visitors experience the hard work that goes into foraging. They get to see for themselves the value and necessity of truffles.

Truffle Hunting in italy

The best way to locate truffles in Italy is with the help of a dog that possesses an acute sense of smell. This is when the Italian dogs that sniff for truffles come in handy. Dogs are only permitted to go on truffle hunts if they have proper licensing, and their owners must pay a yearly fee.

The dog can detect the truffle scent from 100 meters away, thanks to its aroma that attracts animals. The canine’s sense of smell is more acute than the human’s. These hunting dogs also boast an extra 4,000 olfactory sensors above our own.

Using the dog’s nose as a guide, the owner delicately digs out the truffles with a little hoe (called a zappino ). Taking this action is crucial. Do your best to avoid disturbing the truffle without causing any harm to the soil. If you want the truffle to keep producing after you dig it up, you’ll need to refill the soil.

The Best Time To Go Truffle Hunting in Italy

While Italian truffles can be cultivated at any time of year, the actual hunting season in Italy is somewhat limited.

Truffle hunting in Italy is prohibited from May and September 1–20 to protect the environment and the delicate truffle ecosystem.

After then, the best time to go truffle hunting in Italy depends on the variety of truffles you’re after.

There are many different truffle seasons in Italy. The best time to find a white winter truffle is between October and January, whereas the best time to find a white summer truffle is between the middle of January and the end of April.

Similar to white truffles, black truffles have a summer and a winter. The months of May through September are the summer season, and the months of November through March are the winter season for black truffles.

So, for about seven months out of the year, Italy produces, eats, and exports a lot of truffles. Truffle fairs are held all over the country in November when white and black winter truffles are abundant and at their peak for new sampling.

Popular Types of Truffles That You Will Hunt in Italy

There are 63 distinct types of truffles in various parts of Italy. People who enjoy truffles can safely consume nine of them.

However, of those nine, only eight are used widely in contemporary cuisine.

The list below provides an overview of the most highly prized truffles that you could find on truffle tours and samples in meals made by Italian chefs .

• Black Truffle

Locals refer to the black truffle as either tartufo nero pregiato (Périgord black truffle) or tartufo di Norcia (the black truffle of Norcia), the second most valuable commercial truffle species. Its scent is a cross between undergrowth, strawberries, and moist dirt.

The black truffle has a circular body and skin that are both dark brown.

Usually found in the company of oak, hazel, or hornbeam trees, the black truffle is harvested between November and March.

• Black Winter Truffles

Some tourists visiting Italy might mistake this truffle for the more famous black variety simply because of its appearance. Nevertheless, its aroma and flavor are much milder and more refined.

Between January and March, hunters scour the countryside for this black winter truffle variety.

• Piedmont White Truffle

The Piedmont white truffle or the Alba truffle, often referred to as the “White Diamond,” is a highly unique and expensive luxury food item from Italy.

These truffles have an odd, irregular form, with a beige exterior that turns brown with age and a smoky aroma that hints of garlic, honey, and butter.

Between September and November, the white Piedmont truffles flourish and they are mostly found in oak, hazel, willow, beech, and poplar trees.

• Tartufo Bianchetto

Tartufo bianchetto, also known as marzuolo, looks like white truffles due to its smooth, beige skin, but it does not ripen in the same way as the Piedmont/Alba variety.

Its other name is actually “whitish truffle,” which says a lot about it. It is whitish but not quite white. In fact, this truffle variety has smooth orange to rust-colored surface and a white gleba with brownish nuances and ivory veins on the inside.

This truffle variety has a noticeable but not overwhelming aroma of sharp garlic. The months of February through April are ideal for harvesting.

• Tartufo Nervo Estivo o Scorzone (Summer Truffle)

This ordinary black truffle is spherical with brown and black skin. It smells like porcini mushrooms and looks like them, too. The best time to enjoy these truffles is in July when they have fully matured.

• Tartufo Moscato

The rind of a tartufo Moscato is black and has a powerful, spicy aroma comparable to that of Muscat wine. February and March are when hunting season is in session, so a trip during these months provides the best opportunity to sample its distinctive flavor.

• Tartufo Nero di Fragno (Winter Scorzone)

With its dark flesh, the winter scorzone – also called tartufo nero di Fragno – is similar to the summer truffle, yet, it has a powerful hazelnut aroma.

These truffles are typically collected from September through the end of December. However, there are instances in which they might be picked through late January.

• Tartufo Nero Liscio

When used in particular Italian meals, the aroma of this rare species of black truffle is comparable to that of white truffles. Still, its flavor is more potent and garlicky, and its aftertaste is longer.

The months of August and September is the ideal time to harvest it.

Where To Find Truffles in Italy

Italy is one of the most important producers of truffles in the world, and every year, the country plays host to a variety of truffle fairs all around the peninsula.

It is said that the region close to Alba in Piedmont produces the best white truffles, but different types can be found throughout the northern and central regions of Italy. These regions have the ideal microclimates and soil composition for the cultivation of truffles.

• Abruzzo and Molise

Most of Italy’s truffles come from these regions, which produce as much as 60% of the country’s total supply.

• Emilia-Romagna

Several types can be found in the countryside around Parma and Piacenza.

• Le Marche

White truffles and nero pregiato can be foraged in Acqualagna and Pergola.

White truffles, nero pregiato, scorzone, and the more popular brumale kind, may be found in this region.

• Tus c any

Across this verdant region, one can hunt white truffle, nero pregiato, and scorzone.

The centers of Orvieto, Perugia, and Norcia are home to different types of truffles.

Truffle Tours in Italy

In 2021, Italian truffle hunting was inscribed by UNESCO on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Going on a truffle hunt is one of those things that can’t be missed if you visit Italy.

In most truffle tours, you are accompanied by a guide and truffle-hunting dogs while you search for white and black truffles. On the way, guides usually teach how to recognize the trees that they are found on. After the hunt, many tours include a lunch of regional specialties, including wine, olive oil, vinegar, and truffle oil.

Some of the best regions for a truffle hunt are Piedmont, Tuscany, and Umbria.

Find exciting tour suggestions here:

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Best Truffle Hunting in Italy: When & Where to Go Truffle Hunting in Italy

By: Author Milijana

Posted on Published: November 4, 2023  - Last updated: March 5, 2024

Categories ITALY , FOOD TRAVEL

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Truffles are among the most luxurious delicacies.  These famous underground fungi are a traditional food in Italy . Italian truffle culture has been centuries old. Today, Italy is a top destination for truffle hunting and tasting. UNESCO enlisted truffle hunting in Italy on its list of the world’s intangible cultural heritage.  Truffle hunting in Italy is a must-have experience in a lifetime. So, it is no wonder if you are interested in truffle hunting in Italy! Read about truffles in Italy, find out where to have the best truffle hunting in Italy, and when to go for truffle hunting in Italy.  

Truffle hunting in Italy: Truffles in Italy 

Truffles are among the most prized and expensive delicacies in the world.  Italy is one of few countries in the world where truffles grow. The country is a famous gourmand destination and a haven on earth for truffles lovers.  Italians called truffles  tartufi (pl) (tartufo, sg) . Truffles have been on their kitchen tables since ancient Roman times. Gaius Plinius Secundus, a famous Roman author and naturalist, wrote about eating truffles in ancient Rome. The tradition of truffle hunting, harvesting, preparing, and eating has existed in Italy for centuries.  UNESCO enlisted truffle hunting in Italy on its list of the World’s Intangible Cultural Heritage. Truffle hunting is the daily job of truffle hunters, or  tartufai  in Italian, during the harvesting season. Italian truffle hunters traditionally used pigs for truffle hunting. Now, they use well-trained dogs to find truffles. 

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As you might know, truffles are subterranean fungi that grow close to tree roots in deep forests. They are seasonal and grow wild. Modern days know the cultivation of black truffles, though. But, the cultivation takes many years. Wild or cultivated, truffles are rare gourmand pearls.  Truffle lovers in Italy distinguish white and black truffles, known as  tartufi bianchi  and  tartufi neri  in Italy.  The most expensive and prized are white truffles. They are rarer than black truffles, have a more delicate aroma than black truffles, and can be kept fresh for only three days. White truffles are used mostly fresh, raw, and shaved over dishes. The price of white truffles of superior quality reaches an incredible 6.000 € per kilo.  The best quality white truffles in Italy are from the area around the city of Alba in the Piedmont region in northern Italy. Alba is known as the truffle capital of Italy. However, truffles grow throughout Italy from Veneto to Sicily, but central Italy has them the most. Tuscany, Marche, Abruzzo, Molise, and Umbria in central Italy have particularly fertile soil for truffle growth. While the best white Italian truffles come from Piedmont, the best back Italian truffles come from Umbria. White Truffle of Alba stands for the best white truffle in Italy. Black Truffle of Norcia, in Umbria , stands for the best black truffle in Italy.  In general, black truffles are more common, with a more sturdy flavor than white truffles. They could be preserved for up to two weeks, and the price of extra-quality black truffles goes up to 2.000 € per kilo.

Umbria in central Italy, known as the green heart of Italy for its lush green hills, olive groves, vineyards, and forests, is the top-producing region of black truffles in Italy.  Umbria truffles are famous around the world. Black truffles dominate the woods of Umbria. However, white truffles are not unseen there, either.  Truffles grow in the clay-rich soil of Umbria under oak, holm-oak, beech, and chestnut trees. There are plenty of them in Umbrian woods. Thus, black truffles are a traditional staple of Umbrian cuisine. Umbrians call them back diamonds of the kitchen. Black truffle is ‘the king of the table’ in Umbria. The prime harvesting season of black truffles in Umbria goes from November to March. Still, they can be found in Umbria in summer, too. In fact, there are two variants of black truffles: winter black truffles and summer truffles. Winter black truffles have a more robust aroma than summer black truffles.  The famous black truffle harvesting area in Umbria is around Norcia and in the valley of Nera River. Black Truffle of Norcia is the finest black Italian truffle.  Black truffles are freshly grated or cooked in a dish. Umbrians traditionally make truffle dishes (with pasta, omelet, risottos, gnocchi), truffle sausages, cheese with truffles (Caciotta al Tartufo) and Olive oil with truffles. Today, you can find many shops throughout Umbria selling truffle chocolate, as well.  The most famous traditional Umbrian pasta dish with truffles is umbricelli ai tartufo. Not less popular dish is pasta alla Norcina with truffles. If you would like risotto with black truffles, order risotto al tartufo nero in Umbria.

Where to go for the best truffle hunting in Italy 

Pidementon .

As I already said, the Piedmont region in northern Italy is the most famous white truffle region in Italy, particularly the area around the city of Alba.  White Truffle of Alba is known as the best white truffle in Italy. The area around Alba is the best area for white truffle hunting in Italy. Alba holds the famous Alba International White Truffle Fair which happens in October and November every year. Tajarin al tartufo , a traditional pasta dish with truffles from Piedmont is a must-try.  Alba: Truffle Hunt & Barolo Wine Tasting Alba: Langhe Truffle hunting Experience

Tuscany 

Tuscany is also a famous truffle region in Italy for its white and black truffles. San Miniato, near Florence, is a popular truffle hunting area. San Miniato is called the truffle capital of Tuscany.  So, if you are visiting Florence and wish to go for truffle hunting in Italy, San Miniato is the place to do it! The town of San Miniato is an hour’s drive from Florence. Florence: Full-Day Small-Group Truffle Hunting in Tuscany with Lunch San Miniato Truffle Hunting Experience with Lunch

RELATED READ: BEST Tuscany road trip MUST-TRY Traditional Food in Tuscany

Umbria 

Umbria is the most famous truffle-hunting region in Italy for black truffles. The area around Norcia is the top truffle hunting area in Umbria. The black truffle of Norcia is known as the best black truffle in Italy.  Gubbio in Umbria holds the Month of the Truffle (Il Mese del Tartufo) from November 1st until December 10th where the visitors can enjoy the truffle specialties from Umbria. Also, Mostra Mercato Nazionale del Tartufo Bianco happens in  Città di Castello in Umbria in November. Truffle Hunting Experience in Assisi

RELATED READ: BEST Towns in Umbria BEST Things to Do in Umbria Italy

Truffle hunting in Italy season

The white truffle season in Pidmenton goes from October to December.  Black truffle harvesting season in Italy goes from November to March.  Black summer truffle (t artufo nero scorozone ) harvesting season in Italy goes from June to September. 

Best Truffle Hunting Tours in Italy

Best truffle hunting in Italy and truffle hunting in Italy cost 

Truffle Hunting in Tuscany :

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Truffle hunting in Umbria

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Truffle hunting in Piedmont

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Truffle hunting in Veneto

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Truffle hunting near Rome

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What to wear for truffle hunting in Italy

Truffles grow in deep woods. Dress casually and comfortably. Dress in long pants and long sleeves and wear closed-toe shoes, appropriate for woods and forest ground. Be prepared for wet and mud. In case you are going truffle hunting in summer, take a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent with you.

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• Elba Island
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Best Truffle Hunting Tours in Italy

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Italian Truffle Hunting Experience is a Tour Operator based in Piedmont Region , where the famose Alba White Truffle comes from.  Our mission is to provide customize tour packages and itineraries for a variety of individual clients and groups.

Our Private touring company is working every day for providing general and specific advice about different Truffle hunting destinations . Every Truffle experience is fully customizable and all the destination are unique and every part of the trip has been created individually to suit your style, taste and budget. 

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Roddi Truffle Hunting Tours | Unique Truffle Experiences in Langhe

Embrace the intriguing universe of truffles and discover the complex profession of a trifulau (truffle hunter). Embark on an adventure with our professional trifulau and his loyal dog, diving into the woods and unearthing the precious underground mushroom. It’s a secret world, explored often at night, away from prying eyes, in specific and unpredictable habitats. Your truffle hunting adventure in Roddi promises to be a journey of discovery and excitement.

Truffle Hunting: Witness the Art of the Trifulau

Experience first-hand the trust and mutual respect between a trifulau and his dog in this simulated activity. Despite it being a demonstration, the hunt takes place in natural truffle grounds. Don’t be surprised if we discover truffles that grew spontaneously on the spot! Enjoy the unique thrill of seeing the dog begin to dig and unearth the precious mushroom.

A Walk through the Woods: Discovering Truffle Secrets

Join Massimiliano Bertello and his loyal canine companion, Kelly, as they guide you through the stunning hills of the Langhe. Here, you’ll learn traditional research techniques, understanding how, where, and why the coveted Alba White Truffle comes into being. Immerse yourself in the captivating dynamic between trifulau and dog, gaining insights incomprehensible to outside observers.

Purchase and Tasting: Savor the Fruits of Your Adventure

At the end of the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase the truffles you’ve collected, bringing a piece of this incredible experience home with you. To conclude the tour, you’ll partake in a tasting session, where you’ll discern for yourself why the Alba White Truffle is held in such high regard.

Quality, Convenience, Freshness: Our Commitment to You

Langhe Truffle is dedicated to providing the best truffle experience, whether through the truffle hunting tour or the sale of freshly picked truffles. We guarantee the quality, convenience, and freshness of our products, striving to make this elusive delicacy accessible to all.

Tasting Experience: Savor the Delicate Flavor of Truffles

Indulge in a professional tasting session at our office, a service that has become a staple of the Langhe Truffle experience. Here, you’ll savor the unique flavor of truffles, accompanied by locally sourced meats, cheeses, and wine, all in the tranquil setting of the typical hilly landscape of the Langa.

Each “Roddi Truffle Hunting Tour” is an immersive dive into the world of truffles, connecting you to nature and offering you an authentic, unforgettable, and fun experience. Are you ready to start your truffle adventure in Roddi?

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Truffle Hunts In Italy

Discover the enchanting world of italian truffle hunting: a journey through woods and flavors.

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Italy's scenic landscapes, as you explore the captivating world of truffle hunting. This unique experience offers a chance to delve into the rich culinary traditions of Italy, uncovering the secrets behind one of the country's most sought-after delicacies. With expert guides and their faithful truffle-hunting dogs by your side, you'll venture into the enchanting woods of Bologna, Tuscany, Emilia Romagna, and beyond, in search of the elusive white and black truffles. Learn about the best truffle hunting seasons, what to wear, and the level of fitness required for this unforgettable adventure. With a blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy, this truffle hunting experience in Italy is bound to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Unearthing Italy's White Gold: Truffle Hunting Adventures in Bologna's Enchanted Forests

A real opportunity to go in the woods with expert mushroom hunters. You will spend the experience with the local truffle hunter and his dog to discover the white gold of the Italian mountains. These activities will be done around Bologna (Savigno).

Option 1 - Truffle Experience in Savigno Bologna.

When: The truffle seasons starts from April till end of November. The activity begins at: 9 am What: Half a day with truffle dog and guide + visit at the truffle museum. What to bring:  Suitable weatherproof clothing and hiking shoes. Hiking Difficulty : Low to Medium. Where : Savigno (Bologna) Can I keep the truffles: The truffle man owns the truffle found on the day, you can buy them off him at a lower price than the shops. What else should I know : This is a truffle hunt experience and it might contain a simulation. Lunch is not included in the price. Transport : We do not organise transport for this activity.

Join us for a genuine truffle hunting experience in the beautiful managed woodlands of Savigno, a renowned area for truffles. Our expert guide, an Italian government-approved truffle connoisseur, and our professional truffle hunter with his highly skilled dog, will lead you on an unforgettable adventure in search of these precious tubers. Although we strive to provide the best possible conditions for a successful truffle hunt, we cannot guarantee that truffles will be found. However, to enhance your experience and keep spirits high, we may incorporate additional elements of human intervention to increase the chances of unearthing these hidden treasures. By choosing to embark on this unique journey, you acknowledge and agree to these terms. Let the excitement begin as you immerse yourself in the captivating world of truffle hunting in Bologna's enchanting forests!

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Option 2 Northen Tuscany - Pontremoli.

Discover northern tuscany's truffle treasures: unforgettable truffle hunting experience in pontremoli.

Conveniently situated within easy reach of Parma (1 hour), Cinque Terre (45 minutes), and Pisa (1 hour and 15 minutes), Pontremoli in Northern Tuscany offers a unique and captivating truffle hunting adventure. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of truffles and uncover the culinary jewels hidden within the region's picturesque landscapes.

Season : Truffle hunting in Pontremoli is possible from April to the end of November, offering a diverse and abundant experience throughout the various stages of the truffle seasons.

Schedule : The truffle hunting activity begins at 9 am, allowing you to make the most of the beautiful Tuscan morning light.

Duration : Embark on a 2-hour journey with a professional truffle guide and a trained truffle dog, exploring the lush woodlands and discovering the aromatic tubers that lie beneath the surface.

Essentials : Be prepared for your truffle hunting adventure by wearing suitable weatherproof clothing and comfortable hiking shoes.

Hiking Difficulty : The truffle hunting experience in Pontremoli caters to various skill levels, with a low to medium hiking difficulty to accommodate all participants.

Location : The truffle hunting expedition takes place in the charming town of Pontremoli, nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Tuscany.

Truffle Ownership : The truffle hunter owns the truffles found during the activity. However, you have the opportunity to purchase them directly from him at a lower price than you would find in local shops.

Indulge in the fascinating world of truffle hunting and create unforgettable memories in the picturesque setting of Pontremoli, Northern Tuscany.

Click here to book this activity from Pontremoli.

Where to hunt for truffles in italy.

As you probably know, among the typical products of Italian cuisine the treasured white and black truffles hold a place of honour. But if you prefer to go beyond the table and do an exciting tour through the Italian woods it would be better to learn where, when and how to hunt for truffles. Read on the following guide to the best locations in Italy where to find truffles, the right period for truffles harvest and what equipment you need to do it.

Areas in Italy where to find white and black truffles.

Truffles in piedmont..

Northern and North Central Italy are the ideal habitat where black, white and other fungi varieties lie underground. Lovers of white truffles should head to the famous town of Alba , in the Langhe region of Piedmont , to see and taste the highly priced treat celebrated each year between October and November at the International White Truffle Festival and auctioned at shocking prices, as a single white truffle can reach the value of thousands of Euros. Other good locations in Piedmont are the province of Asti and the Monferrato area.

Truffles in Tuscany: Unearth the Culinary Jewels of Italy's Enchanting Region

Tuscany, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is also a truffle lover's paradise. The sought-after tubers thrive among the roots of poplar, willow, and oak trees across the region, with several areas offering the perfect conditions for their growth. Embark on a captivating truffle hunting expedition through Tuscany's diverse and picturesque territories:

Mugello - Just north of Florence, the verdant Mugello region boasts a lush, unspoiled landscape perfect for truffle hunting. Wander through its enchanting forests and uncover the secrets of this culinary treasure.

Crete Senesi - Near the historic city of Siena, the Crete Senesi is a striking area characterized by its lunar-like terrain. Amidst the rolling clay hills, truffles flourish, providing a unique foraging experience for enthusiasts.

San Miniato - Surrounded by the stunning countryside, San Miniato is a truffle hunter's dream. Celebrated for its annual White Truffle Festival, this charming town offers an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Val Tiberina - Situated in the Arezzo province, Val Tiberina's picturesque landscape and fertile soil provide an ideal environment for truffles. Delve into the captivating world of truffle hunting and uncover the region's hidden gems.

Casentino - Nestled between Florence and Arezzo, the serene Casentino valley is a haven for truffle lovers. Explore the pristine woodlands and discover the prized tubers that lie beneath the forest floor.

Pontremoli - Located in the province of Massa Carrara, Pontremoli boasts a rich truffle heritage. Its undulating hills and dense forests offer an idyllic backdrop for an exhilarating truffle hunting adventure.

Experience the magic of Tuscany through its exquisite truffles and the captivating art of truffle hunting. Unearth the culinary jewels hidden in the enchanting landscapes of this iconic Italian region.

Check this page for more info about truffles in Tuscany .

Truffles in Emilia Romagna: Explore the Culinary Gems of the Tuscan-Emilian Appennines

Venture into the mesmerizing hilly landscape of the Tuscan-Emilian Appennines, where an abundance of truffles can be discovered in the picturesque countryside of the Bologna province. These culinary gems are the pride of the region and attract truffle enthusiasts from far and wide. Embark on a journey through charming towns, each offering unique truffle hunting experiences and delectable local cuisine:

Savigno - Known as the "City of Truffles," Savigno hosts an annual truffle festival that showcases its prized tubers. Immerse yourself in the local culture and join truffle hunters as they scour the surrounding woodlands for these elusive treasures.

Sasso Marconi - With its captivating blend of historical charm and natural beauty, Sasso Marconi is the perfect setting for a truffle hunting adventure. Wander through the lush forests and uncover the secrets of truffle foraging in this enchanting town.

Castello di Serravalle - Steeped in history, Castello di Serravalle is home to a medieval castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the verdant hills and valleys, where truffles flourish in the rich soil, and savor the flavors of the region's exquisite cuisine.

Monteveglio - Nestled amidst rolling vineyards and olive groves, Monteveglio is a haven for truffle aficionados. Join expert hunters as they navigate the pristine woodlands, and indulge in the delightful culinary creations that showcase the area's prized truffles.

Embark on a captivating journey through Emilia Romagna's truffle-rich landscape, and experience the enchanting world of truffle hunting in these charming towns of the Bologna province.

Truffles in central Italy, Umbria.

Going down to central Italy, travel to the suggestive woods of Pietralunga and Città di Castello, in the region of Umbria, where the humid soil reveals white truffles characterized by an aroma almost as sophisticated as the one from Alba. The exquisite white variety grows in:

• The Tevere Valley
• The Eugubino Gualdese 
• Orvieto surroundings

Top Umbrian areas to pick black truffles are:

• Nera, Corno and Sordo rivers
• Trevi and Subasio mountains

When to hunt white and black truffles in Italy

The right season to go and pick the flavourful white truffles is when the green rolling hills of Piedmont, Tuscany, Emilia Romagna and Umbria go yellowish. Autumn and winter are definitely the best seasons to visit these regions of Italy if you love also to take part to festivals and fairs (sagre), where you can taste many regional delicacies (wine, cheese, chocolate and more). Better to schedule your adventurous harvest in Piedmont or Umbria if you rather prefer the black variety since you have more chances to pick it from June to November. Black truffles reveal their deep aroma when cooked so, if we consider the unique scent and taste of the white variety, we can understand how a single slice or sprinkle of tartufo bianco served fresh is enough to enrich any dish. Finally its rarity – only Italian territory is blessed with white truffles - contributes to increase its value on the market reaching amazing quotations.

What to wear for truffles hunting

Talking about the perfect gear, waterproof jacket and walking boots make up the perfect equipment to wear as you stroll through the woods, but remember that without a dog properly trained and an expert guide who knows deeply the area, becoming a real truffles hunter it’s not that easy and you may run into dangerous food similar to the one you were looking for. At the end of the day, only expert trifolaus can disclose some of the secret places where to discover the earthy treats.

So if you have a taste for the precious Italian fungi, don’t thing twice about booking food tours in Italy to experience yourself a day as trifolau!

All You Need To Know About Truffle Hunt In Italy.

Truffles are a type of mushrooms that grow underground, and they have formed a symbiotic relationship with the environment. They usually grow underground among the roots of particular tree species such as maples, oak, elm, pine, willow, chestnut, and cedar. As they are hard to find you need an expert to help you to find and identify them. When you find them, they look like a knobby, rough-skinned potato and it usually grows not so deep in the soil. However, they are scarce hence their high cost. Some truffles mainly grow during summer and are harvested in the fall, however you can find black truffle from early spring.

In Italy, truffles are used in the preparation of a number of truffle dishes which include sausages, salami, pate. From infused lard spreads to cheese.

When to go for Truffle Hunting in Italy.

Depending on the location, there are different times of the year when you can be able to find the truffles. The Italian black truffle mushrooms are available during early spring to late summer season which notably is from April to September.  Though sometimes you can get them throughout the year. If you are a lover of white truffle, they are mostly available towards the end of September to November. While its black truffle counterpart is known to mature during the coldest and the darkest months of the year - usually November to February however this depends on the species of the truffle.

As a rule of thumb we recommend to go on a truffle hunt from late March to mid November, and avoid winter due to bad weather. You should start your truffle hunt at around 9 am or at least have 5/6 hours of full day light if you go later in the day.

What to Wear During a Truffle Hunt.

It is always better to check the weather forecast the day before your hunt. You should be accordingly dressed complete with a waterproof jacket in case of rain and comfortable walking boots. You need good walking shoes because if you are not familiar with the terrain of the place, you might find yourself walking in steep ascents and descents hence good boots will be of help. Ensure also that you wear long trousers that cover all your legs because they will do you a good deal in protecting you from being scratched by brambles. There are tics in the undergrowth so ensure that you tuck your trousers into your socks/boots. Remember also to carry a tool for digging the soil to get the truffle although the dogs can help to dig up with their claws/paw.

Level of Fitness For a Truffle Hunt in Italy.

Truffle hunting is ideal for everyone although a level of physical fitness is necessary because sometimes you will be required to walk up steep trails. In addition to the climbing, you will be required to walk most of the time during the day. Your tour for hunting the truffles can extend up to three hours hiking around the woods as you search for truffles. However, you will have stopovers along the way so that you can regain your strength. So, if you are planning to go for truffle hunting and you do not usually walk, is best to start ahead of time to do some training walks around the area whre you live. Rest assured that our truffle hunt is made as easy as possible however a basic level of fitness is still required.

What to Expect During a Truffle Experience in Italy.

When you are going for truffle hunting, like a truffle hunter, you should expect the walking on the  mountains, you will meet a guide and  the truffle hunter, his dogs (Lagotto Romagna).

Further still, be prepared to walk for an  hour, share whatever you hunt with others , preserve the eco-system for those coming behind you, respect the many species of truffle that are found in the forest and of course a real adventure. In the forest, it is home also to a lot of wildlife. For this reason, expect to find a lot of holes that have been dug by these animals more especially the wild boars. The specially trained dogs are used to sniffle for the aroma of the truffles. However, the dogs are not interested in eating the truffles, but they are rewarded for every truffle that they find. But at the same time, they enjoy the hunting. Also, you should be prepared that the truffles are very rare hence its demand in the market outweighs the supply. However, the good news is that it grows close to the earth surface and they have a pungent aroma which is a characteristic feature which makes them to be easily sniffled by dogs. This activities often include a simulation,

Types of Truffles.

Just like the mushrooms, there are different kinds of truffles, and they can be determined by their appearance, size, color, texture, and shape. There are mainly two types, i.e., the black and white truffles. The white truffle, when it is fully grown, it reaches a diameter of 12cm and weighs up to 500 grams. When it is fresh, its color ranges from pale cream to brown, and in Italy, it mostly grows during the Autumn months. The black truffles on the other hand, when it is fully grown, it reaches a diameter of 7 – 9 cm and weighs from 80 – 100 grams.

Create your own review

Following two tours with your guides this week I would like to express my thanks for some wonderful experiences. Monday we did the tour of cheese making, balsamic and Salami which was very good and the guide Paolo was very knowledgeable. The truffle hunt tour today was absolutely amazing, the guide Stefano is pure gold and the tour was built with much thought. Our best experience so far, by far. Looking forward to more tours and fun next time we are in Italy.

10 THINGS YOU WANT TO KNOW WHEN TRAVELLING TO ABRUZZO

Truffle Hunting Tour in Italy's Abruzzo Region

Truffle Hunt With Local Friendly Expert

Get Involved In The Search, Learn The History & Traditions Of Truffles

Enjoy A Fabulous Multi Courses Truffle Meal

Join Us for an Exclusive Italian Truffle Adventure!

The delicious and funky truffle is a rare mushroom that requires specific conditions to grow as well as many years of cultivation before it can be harvested. For this reason truffles are sold at very high prices and the truffle industry is one of the most secretive businesses in the world .

Lucky for us at Experience BellaVita, the Abruzzo region is responsible for producing 40% of Italian truffles! For many locals, truffle hunting is a family tradition passed down from generations, like in our family! So join us for a day truffle hunting in the beautiful countryside of the ‘Gran Sanno & Monti della Laga’ National Park and learn everything you need to know about the elusive and tasty truffle from our local expert guide and our pups Rosso & Jet!

Learn how & where truffles grow

Find out myths and our family tips & secrets

Meet our specially trained dogs and learn how we train them to help us find our precious truffles

Finish off the day with an optional multi-course truffle meal at a local family-owned restaurant

Click the Tabs for More info

Tour details, good to know, the details, departure time, meeting point.

Note: Truffle spots are competitive and top secret! We’ll let you know the exact meeting point after booking.

All year round

Availability

Mondays & Saturdays

Approximately 2 hours (+ 2.5 hours for optional truffle meal add-on)

2 person minimum, 15 people maximum

Not included

Transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, but available upon request for an additional fee.

What to bring

• Extra pair of shoes and pants (there may be mud and dogs jumping)
• A bottle of water and a hat during summer months
• Rain jacket during the winter months

About your guides

In addition to your local BellaVita guide, we’ll be accompanied by our truffle hunting expert and his dogs.

The Experience

Get yourself into the boots of a delightfully sarcastic pro truffle hunter in the Teramo’s countryside and meet our trained dogs: Jet & Rosso.

After meeting up with our expert Truffle Hunter, we will set off to hunt in the forest and you’ll learn how & where truffles grow, why they are so expensive, How & when they are harvested. We will also share with you tips & tricks as well as myths & history! It will be an engaging educational experience, with crazy stories & laughs where you’ll not only discover the most important facets of truffle hunting, but also the secretive aspects behind this business that you wouldn’t normally hear.

Optional extra:

You will enjoy a full truffle meal (4+ courses), paired with a local wine selected by our Sommelier Marino, as well as a truffle dessert, espresso coffee and liquor from the Abruzzo region.

Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee we will find truffles on every hunt, but we do have backup plans in the event that we don’t find truffles on our hunt.

We offer white truffle hunting from October 15th to February 15th. Due to the scarcity of white truffles, we cannot guarantee finding them during your tour. White truffle hunting will include a minimum of 3 hours walking.

Note: The trip details included here are for our scheduled tours. If you’d like to plan a tour for a different date/time/duration/group size or customize your experience in any way, we will do our best to accommodate you! Check out our custom tour option or contact us to plan your tour.

Hear From Our Previous Guests

• My name is Gail, our experience will Bellavita was awesome and memorable. Professional and educated staff and so friendly! We scheduled a few tours with Bellavita and each one was over the top. We loved the truffle hunt, cheese making! We felt like family not a number. read more read less Gail 24/06/22
• My friends and I had an amazing truffle hunting experience with Marino, followed by a delicious meal made with local dishes and ingredients. One of the best meals I had in 5 years living in Italy. read more read less Gabriel Gomes 10/06/22

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The Florence Insider

Your guide to travel and experience Florence, Italy

Truffle Hunting experience from Florence (with truffle lunch!)

One of the most authentic and exciting experiences you can have on a trip to Florence is truffle hunting ! You can spend a whole day on the Tuscan hills with a professional truffle hunter and his dog , in search of precious truffles… and of course, then tasting some delicious dishes cooked with this ingredient.

It is truly a unique experience, both because truffles are very rare and expensive, and because it is something very typical of the Tuscan countryside , which you will not be able to find anywhere else.

The Truffle Hunting Experience is perfect if you are staying in Florence and want to spend a special day in the Tuscan countryside, without having to worry about transport, meal and everything else.

Please note that this excursion is neither organized nor guided by me personally. It is offered by a reliable tour operator with great prices, which I recommend.

• This is one of the best luxury experiences in Florence !

Truffle hunting experience from Florence with lunch and wine tasting

This Truffle Hunting Experience is a d ay trip excursion for small groups (maximum 8 people), lasting approximately 7 hours. It’s also including transport to and from Florence by minivan, departing from a central and easily accessible location in the historic center.

The driver will take you to the medieval village of San Gimignano , where the finest truffles in the world come from. Here you will join a walk in the woods of about two hours, with a professional hunter and his truffle dog . They’ll tell you all the secrets of this ancient and difficult tradition, and show you where those smelly treasures are hidden. Maybe you’ll find some of them, or maybe you won’t. Truffles are not farmed, they are growing wild and hidden, a find is never guaranteed!

Then it’s time to taste the truffles with a nice three-course lunch , including delicious tagliolini with truffle, and some local wine. After that, you will reach a wine estate in Chianti, where you’ll visit their old cellar with barrels. And of course you’ll take a wine tasting experience with a professional sommelier.

Finally in the evening you will be taken back to Florence: the minivan will leave you at the same place you left from.

What’s included:

• Professional driver and guide
• Transport by air conditioned minivan
• 2 hours truffle hunting experience
• 2 courses lunch
• Wine tasting experience

What’s not included:

• Hotel pick up and drop off

Half day truffle hunt with lunch

The same company is also offering a shorter experience, that lasts 3 hours and includes only the truffle hunt and the truffle based lunch : Truffle Hunt in San Miniato with lunch .

The wine tasting experience and transportation is not included: that means that you will have to reach San Miniato on your own , by car or train.

This is a perfect option if you are doing a road trip in Tuscany ! San Miniato is in between Florence and Pisa, making it a perfect stop along your road.

Tips for a truffle hunting experience in Florence, Tuscany

• Wear comfortable shoes (hiking shoes are better, but sneakers can be okay).
• Dress appropriately for a moderate physical activity
• Be prepared to walk
• Bring a raincoat
• Find out all of the best day trips and experiences from Florence
• Take a cooking class in Florence

Frequently asked questions about truffle hunting in Tuscany, Italy

Here are some of the questions I am most often asked about truffles and how they are hunted in Tuscany and Italy. If you have any other questions, leave me a comment and I’ll update this post with the answer!

What truffles are?

Truffles are basically mushrooms that grow underground .

Are there different types of truffles?

There are over 100 species of truffles in nature, but only 9 are edible. The edible ones are divided into two categories: white truffles (2 species) and black truffles (7 species). Some species are more valuable than others.

Where are truffles found?

Truffles usually grow at the base of some trees such as oaks, poplars and hazels, and require soil with specific conditions of humidity, slope, altitude and exposure to the sun. Truffle hunters know the secrets to finding these precious treasures.

What is the truffle season?

Each species of truffle has its season! Most truffles are harvested in autumn and winter, between Ocotber and January. But there are summer and spring varieties of truffles.

What is the best area in Tuscany to hunt for truffles?

The most famous town for this fragrant ingredient is certainly San Miniato, in the province of Pisa. The best quality truffles are found here, and there is a centuries-old tradition of truffle hunting. Truffles can also be found in other areas of Tuscany, such as Mugello.

Why are dogs used to search for truffles?

Because dogs have a very developed sense of smell, and are easily trained to find and report truffles to their human partner. In the past, pigs were also used for this purpose: pigs also have an excellent sense of smell, but it is not so easy to train them not to eat truffles once they have found them!

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Alba Truffle Hunting Tours, Italy

Discover the best White Truffle Hunting Experience in Piedmont

Are you ready for Adventure Travel & Private Langhe Tours? With Truffle Hunting Tours in Italy , Food tasting and Wine Excursions, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the novelty of exceptional wines in the cellars and homes of family-owned farmers. White Truffle Hunting Tours , in Italy (Piedmont Region) is a specialist tour operator. The beautiful colors of the vines, show that autumn is here. Asti, Alba, Barolo, Barbaresco, La Morra and Neive , are great areas for these delicious products. With a wide range of truffle, food and wine tours, we offer you the best and most popular activities and  experience . Travel Langhe, Roero & Monferrato, Unesco World Heritage Sites with our private service transportation.

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Enjoy Alba, White Truffle and Tours

The Alba white truffles , tuber magnatum pico, is one of the rarest foods on earth. We go in search of it’s secrets with the best hunters in the Piedmont Region. If you want the very best experience, this is where you’ve got to come. Alba white truffles is the most expensive food in the world. It grows wild, cannot be cultivated and it can cost nearly as much as caviar or kobe meat.

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You can customize all your food and wine tours to get the best from your weekend in Alba; create your white or black  Truffle tour in Alba, Barolo, La Morra and/ or Neive. If you would like to have a great day out in the Langhe (Piedmont Region, Italy), our truffle and wine tours will exceeded your expectations. The Truffle Hunters, locals and tourist guides are friendly and very knowledgeable.

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Piedmont Region, Italy

Surrounded by the magnificent snow capped mountains of the Alps , Alba is hilly and slightly mountainous and the best way to get here, is to drive. Alba and Barolo are one of the richest areas for white truffles , not to mention the hills of Asti ( Palio di Asti , Festival delle Sagre di Asti 2019 ) and the Langhe. We find the white truffles, like the black ones, under the ground, up to a depth of one meter, near trees like Poplars and Lilies, from September to February.

The Truffle is the Mozart among mushrooms. 

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Truffle hunting customer reviews.

If you like to discover La morra, learn about white and black truffle, taste great wine and eat real Langhe food, Truffle hunting tour La Morra is one of the best experiences in the Piedmont Region.

My Wife and I were looking for a way to escape from the crowds of Milan for a Day. We discover on Googlehad Trufflehuntingalba.com. Amazing daily experience and great money value.

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Alba Truffle Hunting Experience in Italy

Explore the culinary delights of Alba, Italy, a gastronomic paradise known worldwide for its exceptional truffles, and acclaimed wines. Discover its top-rated restaurants, participate in the famed Alba Truffle Festival, and navigate the scenic landscapes from Alba to Genoa, Monte Carlo, Milan and Turin. Stay in the finest accommodations and experience an unforgettable Alba Truffle Hunting tour, an adventure that will leave you with memories for a lifetime.

Truffle Hunting

Embark on an exciting Alba truffle hunting expedition, a thrilling 3-hour experience in the company of an experienced truffle hunter and his trained dog.

Truffle Tasting

Taste the elusive white truffles of Alba, the gourmet’s delight. An immersive experience, complete with an introduction to truffle varieties and how to enjoy them.

Truffle Hunting Tours

Our guided tours offer an intimate look into the world of truffle hunting in Alba, featuring a journey through natural truffle grounds and interaction with seasoned trifolau.

Picnic in Truffle Woods

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the truffle woods after your hunt, savoring local products while immersed in the serene natural landscapes of Alba.

Truffle & Wine Tours

Combine the pleasure of truffle hunting with wine tasting in this all-encompassing tour. Discover the symbiotic relationship between wine and truffles in the Alba region.

Truffle Varieties

Learn about the different truffle varieties found in the Alba region during your hunting tour. Understand the unique features, seasons, and characteristics of each variety.

How Alba White Truffle Hunting works?

When you participate in Alba white truffle hunting, you’ll be embarking on an unforgettable journey, from identifying the right season to finding the truffle with the help of a trained truffle dog. White truffle season in Alba typically falls between late September to January, with the peak season being October and November. An experienced truffle hunter, known as a “trifolau,” will guide you through this process, armed with a special tool called a “vanga” to carefully unearth the truffle.

Post-hunt, the white truffles found in Alba are meticulously cleaned and prepared either for sale or consumption. Given their highly perishable nature, these truffles are best consumed fresh, ideally within a week of their discovery. Participating in a simulated truffle hunt with Alba Truffle Hunting Experience provides a fascinating, hands-on learning opportunity, where you’ll gain deep insights into the unique ecosystem and the intriguing world of truffles.

Is Alba White truffle Hunting worth during Truffle Fair?

Absolutely! Truffle hunting in Alba during the Truffle Fair is an exceptionally enriching experience. Not only will you be immersed in the height of truffle season, but the fair brings a festive atmosphere that significantly enhances the experience. Participating in a truffle hunt during the fair offers a unique opportunity to learn more about this precious delicacy from local truffle hunters, engage with local culture, and fully appreciate the importance of truffles to the region’s gastronomy.

Indulging in the Culinary Excellence of Alba

Engage in the century-old tradition of truffle hunting in the Italian countryside. Accompanied by experienced local hunters and their trained dogs, you’ll learn how to find these underground treasures. The culmination of your tour is a tasting session where you’ll savour the unique and unforgettable flavours of the freshly gathered Alba truffles.

Savour the Flavours: Alba’s Top-Rated Restaurants

Alba’s gastronomic scene is one to be experienced. From Michelin-starred establishments to charming local trattorias, taste truffle-infused dishes and regional cuisine paired with exceptional local wines.

Alba Truffle Festival: A Celebration of Culinary Heritage

Immerse yourself in a world of culinary treasures with our Alba Truffle Hunting Experience in Italy. From the thrill of the truffle hunt to the pleasure of tasting the region’s renowned wines, from exploring top-rated restaurants to partaking in the historic Alba Truffle Festival, and from comfortable stays to scenic drives, this journey is designed to awaken all your senses.

Why Choose Our Truffle Tasting Experience

Guaranteed Quality: Our truffle sale service is one of the largest and most extensive. Customers keep coming back because of the quality of our products, which is our pride and joy.

Affordable Luxury: While truffles are often seen as an elite product, we strive to make them accessible to all. Our prices are fair, without compromising on the uniqueness and authenticity of the truffles.

Fresh and Full of Flavor: Truffles are delicate and perishable goods. To maintain their unique characteristics, we ensure their freshness at all times. Embark on a truffle tasting journey with us. Visit our office and enjoy the magical flavor of these underground gems. You can also opt for a more comprehensive tasting experience at a local restaurant, which includes appetizers, a main course, and dessert paired with select wines.

What’s Included in the Alba truffle Tasting Experience

• A mixed appetizer typical of Piedmont
• Truffle-based products such as jams and honey
• Raw meat with grated black truffle (white truffle available on request at an additional cost)
• A variety of local cheeses
• A tasting of traditional Langhe hazelnut cake
• A glass of Barbaresco DOCG and Dolcetto d’Alba DOC

Note: The cheeses are accompanied by special jams like fig and Barolo jam, Muscat and pear, and onion confit. The meat and cheeses are sourced from selected local artisans and butchers.

Booking Information

The tasting typically follows the simulated truffle hunt and takes place during lunch/aperitif time. The cost is €120 per person, which includes all the listed products and black truffle on the meat. For a more comprehensive tasting at a cost of €135 per person, you will enjoy 3 appetizers, a main course, and a dessert paired with at least 3 wines. This second option is organized in collaboration with a local restaurant. White truffles can also be requested, with a price variation based on quantity and consumption.

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TRUFFLE IN TUSCANY - Your truffle hunting and tasting experience

The research in the woods: a true authentic "truffle beating", accompanied by expert truffle hunters with their dogs. It lasts for about five hours since the moment of the meeting. This is a very unique experience, which takes place in the beautiful hills surrounding San Miniato. It requires equipment suitable for wood: long trousers and high shoes or boots. The paths are simple but not flat because of the hilly land. The departure could be scheduled for the early morning (until lunch time) or for the early afternoon (until the sunset).

Both experiences include a very detailed explanation about the white truffle of San Miniato in Italian or in English (with the support of an interpreter): his nature, history and also few legends that have been always fascinating for those who wants to get to know this mysterious Mother Nature's treasure.Together with the search you can choose to combine fine white truffle-based tastings, lunches or dinner (together with other local products and wines) in typical farms or restaurants, which reflect the amazing Tuscan traditions and culture. During your lunch or dinner our Chefs will be more than happy to explain to you the dishes and disclose a few little secrets about how to use the white truffle to prepare tasteful dishes.

TRUFFLE HUNTING TOUR EXPERIENCE

• 01. Luxury Truffle Experience (All included)
• 02. Truffle with Cooking Class Experience
• 03. Truffle & Home Lunch Experience
• 04. Truffle & Luxury Cooking (with Chef)
• 05. Truffle & Wine Experience
• 06. Truffle & Tasting Experience
• 07. Basic Experience (Only Truffle Hunting)
• 08. Team Building Group Truffle Experience

TUSCANY - Truffle hunter experience

• San Miniato land of truffles
• The national fair of Truffle (exhibition Market)

TRUFFLE SHOP - truffles for sale online trade

• Massimo Cucchiara
• My Family of Truffle Hunters
• My Truffle Hunting Dogs

SAN MINIATO TRUFFLE

• Me… King White Truffle
• Truffle Hunting
• Season and Type of Truffles
• The biggest truffle in the world
• The Truffle Hunter?
• Truffle recipes
• Truffle photo gallery
• Blog and Magazine

TRUFFLE IN TUSCANY

A real truffle hunting experience in Tuscany

Truffle in Tuscany:  a truffle hunters family in Tuscany

They are the people that gave me an intense passion for this incredible “Diamond of Nature”, respect for the natural habitat and truffle hunting tradition , a love for the truffle dog (the real superheroes during the hunting) and, of course, a big passion for its valuable use in the kitchen with traditional recipes .

As a result, today, with the help of my family, I am proud to tell you about the real and high quality truffle from our area of Tuscany (so different from the “truffle aroma”, chemicals or “fake truffles”), its tradition, its history, the legends that recall its myth and its uses in the kitchen… this is my heritage and way to preserve the truffle tradition that is lost in today’s commercialized “Truffle Business” and, more importantly, it is a method of preserving a very unique habitat in the world where truffles grow in their wild habitat, not farmed as in France and other areas!

Each one of my Truffle Experience is private and suitable for the whole family, and can be customized upon your request : it’s very important to me that I pass onto you insider “truffle knowledge” that I answer all of your questions and satisfy your “truffle curiosity”! When you depart from your truffle experience, you will be an “Ambassador of the Real Truffle” because you will be able to spread the truffle tradition and protect a special habitat where the “Food of the Gods” grows! I look forward to welcoming you!

Truffle Hunting Tours: My Truffle Hunting Experiences

I started a lot of years ago, with my friends: we were sitting at the table in front of a delicious “homemade” tagliolini with fresh truffle and I noticed their surprise, their eyes shining during a “truffle story”… they looked like children listening to the imaginary adventures of their favourite super heroes! Today, for my guests, I thought 8 different examples of “truffle experience”: each one is private, suitable for the whole family and customized upon your request and availability :

01. Luxury Truffle Experience (all included)

Authentic and long truffle hunting in the forest with truffle hunting and his dog the experience includes a full truffle lunch home made in the “truffle hunter home” very helpful to know how the Tuscan people use fresh high-quality truffles in their kitchen. The experience is private and suitable for small groups.

02. Truffle Hunting with Cooking Class Experience

Real Truffle hunting in the forest with an expert truffle hunter and his dog whit a full fresh truffle cooking class/show whit us and our family: we want to share with all of you our traditional truffle recipes and teach to you how use fresh truffles on the dishes! The experience is private and suitable for small groups.

03. Truffle Hunting & Home Lunch Experience

Relaxing and real truffle walking in San Miniato area with the expert truffle hunter and his dog! The experience includes a full truffle lunch home made in the “truffle hunter home” very helpful to know how the Tuscan people use fresh high-quality truffles in their kitchen. The experience is private and suitable for small groups.

04. Truffle Hunting & Luxury Cooking (with Chef)

Real truffle hunting in the forest with an expert truffle hunter and his dog whit a full truffle cooking class with a professional Chef in Tuscany: you’ll prepare your truffle meal with the Chef and his staff in his professional kitchen and at the end of which you can enjoy your full truffle lunch or dinner with the best local wines from Italy. The experience is private and suitable for a small group.

05. Truffle Hunting & Wine Experience

Do you like to know how match truffle with wines? Truffle and wine tasting experience has been designed for it: real truffle hunting with an expert truffle hunter and his dog, visit a typical Tuscan family winery and combined tasting of fresh truffle and local wines.

06. Truffle Hunting & Tasting Experience

A pleasant and real truffle walking in a Tuscan forest with the truffle hunter and his truffle dog! This experience includes a fresh high-quality truffle tasting, very helpful to introduce you into the truffle cuisine. The experience with tasting is private and suitable for small or big group.

07. Basic Experience (only truffle hunting)

The experience is recommended for big group or team building experiences; guests can follow the truffle hunter and his dog in the Tuscan forest for truffle hunting, learn about truffles, types, story etc… This experience doesn’t include any truffle tasting but we can customize it around your request.

08. Team Building Group Truffle Hunting Experience

Truffle hunting in the forest, truffle tasting or lunch or truffle cooking class coul be a very special and relaxing experience for a corporate team building: mother nature secret, discover the real truffle scent, its story, the truffle’s legend… hunting for something so precious and out of the human control! The experience is suitable for small or big group and customized around your request.

Important  Notes

All services we offer, from the hunting to tasting, are aimed to introduce the Real and High-Quality Truffle so we can guarantee that all you will see and taste is exclusively the real one and not fake truffles or an artificial product ;

In Tuscany we can find truffle all the year round : each season have its type of truffle so a different flavour, smell so a lot of different recipes;

Transportation is not included (all roads are suitable for your car, don’t worry!);

I t’s very important to tell us in advance allergies/intolerance or special requests ;

Truffles found during the hunting are not included in the price (nobody is obliged to buy them);

We suggest sporty and comfortable clothing (in case of rain, don’t’ worry, we have boots for you);

Children/Kids are welcome , they are our future so we are very proud to tell about our tradition and how is important preserve the natural habitat! Contact us in order to know if we can reserve a special price for your Child/Kid.

From July 15th, I'm full vaccinated and "Green Pass" owner, so I’m able to show you my Green Pass. Truffle Hunting is an experience “virus free” because in the forest we can maintain distances and, when we come back, we have a special room for tasting/lunch or cooking class reserved for you or your family/group . During the time that we will remain in the same room, as required by law and common sense in this period, we will use disposable gloves and a mask . Our premises are sanitized before and after each group of guests.

San Miniato and the tradition of the Truffle in Tuscany

In the following pages we want to tell you about the White Truffle of San Miniato : the magic of its research, its history, the legends which recall its myth and its uses in the kitchen. Knowing this precious Mother Nature's treasure with its peculiar flavour is a wonderful chance to discover the traditions of our land. These traditions are linked to nature and work in fields that nowadays represent a cultural heritage unique in the world.

We are in the heart of Tuscany and here you can find "King Truffle"! Its quality is recognized as number one in the world. Only through searching and finding it under the guidance of an expert truffle hunter and his dog can you experience the emotions of a fairy tale.You will learn how to recognize and distinguish it from other truffles of inferior quality and artificial products. You will see with your own eyes how to cook King Truffle and you will try it combined with the dishes and wines of our land… and finally, you will surely fall in love with King Truffle!

Discover the magical adventure of Truffle Hunting in Tuscany! I look forward to welcoming you...

Truffle in Tuscany (Truffle hunting experience)

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Truffle in Tuscany (Truffle hunting experience) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

An insider’s guide to Italian truffle hunting

This article spotlights the exclusive moments on our Food & Wine: Piedmont & Tuscany tour , in partnership with America’s Test Kitchen .

Italian truffles are a culinary delicacy, but these fancy fungi have a long history—and nobody knows this better than the Trifolau family. They’ve harvested truffles for five generations in the Piedmont region of Italy , and today, Natale and Giorgio continue that family legacy.

Whether you want to learn the ins-and-outs of truffle hunting or are looking to know what makes white and black Italian truffles such prized foods, this guide (and the Trifolau family!) are giving you the inside scoop on all things truffles.

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The Best Places To Go Truffle Hunting In Italy

The rolling hills of Italy’s lush landscape are famous for their bountiful produce. Fields of gnarled, silvery-leaved trees burst with olives. Vines carpet hillsides to the horizon. And luscious sweet lemons drip juicily from lemon groves. But the Mediterranean sun does not ripen Italy’s most prized crop. It grows slowly, in the dark, under the ground and has to be hunted by dogs. Let’s go truffle hunting in Italy !

What are truffles?

Truffles are the fruits of a subterranean fungus that typically grows around the roots of certain trees including oak, beech, birch, hazel, pine and poplar. They look a bit like a knobbly, rough-skinned potato and normally grow a few inches underground. But as they grow under, not on trees, truffles are difficult to find and therefore very expensive.

It’s fortunate then that truffles have a uniquely strong smell that pigs and dogs can be trained to seek out. In fact pigs are expert truffle hunters, as the aroma is similar to pig pheromones. But as they also love to eat truffles, trained dogs have more recently replaced truffling pigs, as the hounds will release the fungus without damaging it in exchange for a treat.

Truffle history

Truffles were considered mysterious and divine by ancient peoples. The Greeks believed that truffles grew at the spot where thunderbolts, hurled by the god Zeus, hit the ground. The ancient Romans loved them for their aphrodisiac properties and poet Cicero called them “earth’s offspring.”

But it wasn’t until the 1700s that truffles and truffle hunting in Italy really became popular. The “edible diamonds” were adored by the King of France and nobles across Europe who imported the natural fungus to add flavor and a touch of class to their banqueting tables. Today chefs all over the world use truffles for their strong flavor and these gastronomic delicacies are so prized that they are worth their weight in gold with 2023 prices hitting a high at €4,500 or $4,800 per kilo.

Truffle hunting in Italy

If you’ve ever visited Tuscany chances are you’ve tasted truffle dishes or come home with truffle cream or oil as a culinary souvenir. But if you want to know more about where these black diamonds come from you need to take a trip out into the heart of truffle country.

San Miniato, halfway between Florence and Pisa, is a lovely little hilltop village that celebrates the white truffle harvest with 3 weekends of truffle markets every November. The aroma of truffles wafts through the streets as visitors taste test and buy all manner of truffle goodies. From sausages and salami to paté, or from cheese to infused lard spreads, San Miniato has everything a truffle lover could want.

1) San Miniato and Truffles in Tuscany: A Full Day Excursion

So if you love this wonderful delicacy, San Miniato is the perfect place to explore truffles in Tuscany . With a full day to explore, you arrive at San Miniato to meet the Savini family’s trifulau truffle hunters, who will take you through some of the local truffle types before taking you out on your very own truffle hunt with the dogs! Lunch will obviously include this delicious delicacy and maybe even some of the truffles you’ve found yourselves. And the day is rounded off with a guided visit of the Tenuta di Poggio wine estate where you’ll learn how their grapes are turned into beautiful bio-dynamic wines. What a wonderful way to experience the bounty of Tuscany.

2) Truffle Hunting in Tuscany: A Full Day Excursion in Crete Senesi

San Giovanni d’Asso, set in the heart of the southern Sienese landscape, is another focus for white truffle hunters and lovers alike. The little hilltop town celebrates the fabulous fungus with its truffle festival in the second and third weeks of November each year, right at the height of the season and is tremendous fun for foodies. Stalls laden with piles of truffles and truffle infused delights tempt visitors but you need to be quick as fresh truffles begin to lose their prized perfume within days of being harvested so get ready to tuck in!

It’s a great spot to try out a little truffle hunt ing in Tuscany , teaming up with a local trifolaio and his trained dogs for the morning to seek out the Tuscan treasures. You’ll learn about where truffles grow and how the dogs work and, hopefully, you’ll be lucky enough to uncover some of the hidden fungus for yourselves. A mouth-watering lunch of local truffle dishes at the wonderful Osteria delle Crete is then followed up with a guided tour of the medieval town overlooking truffle country.

3) Truffle Hunting in Le Marche: Half Day Excursion

But Tuscany isn’t the only place that truffles flourish in Italy. You can have a truly wonderful rural experience truffle hunting in Le Marche too, an Italian region to the east of Tuscany nestled between the Apennine Mountains and Adriatic coastline. You’ll spend the morning truffling deep in the woods of a private estate just outside Ascoli Piceno. The underground mushrooms thrive here all year round so, with a little help from the locals and their expert dogs that can take upwards of 4 years to train, you should be lucky enough to unearth some buried treasure just in time to add them to or grate them over your tasty Le Marche lunch. Delicious!

4) Wine & Truffles: Full Day Wine Excursion from the Langhe area

Alternatively head north-west to the Piedmont region for a full day of wine and truffles in the Langhe area . Famous for its luxurious tartufi bianchi white truffles you’ll spend the morning foraging with a local truffle hunter and his devoted dogs in the hills of Monferrato, home to some of the best truffle hunting in Italy. Lunch in Alba, famous for its white truffle festival that has been running in October and November for nearly a century, is then followed up with a wonderful visit to a celebrated Barbaresco red wine producer and then a guided tasting of some of their finest vintages to conclude your day sampling the fruits of this great land.

5) Barolo Tour: ‘King of Wines, Wine of Kings’

Or if you prefer Barolo, the King of wines and wine of kings, to Barbaresco stay up in the Langhe for some lip-smacking vintages, thanks to some of the best harvests in recent years. Your day begins at Grinzane Cavour , home to the 10 th century Falletti di Barolo castle and with historic links both to the red wine and the unification of Italy. You’ll stop for a wine tasting at a renowned local wine producer before a typical Piedmontese lunch in the village of La Morra. An afternoon visit to a second Barolo winery, including a guided tasting, illustrates the different subtleties of Italy’s most exquisite red. And your final stop takes in the historic center of Alba, Piedmont’s legendary heart of truffle hunting. The best wine in Italy paired with the best tartufi truffles; Piedmont is heaven for food and wine lovers alike!

Ultimately Italian truffles are some of the most prized and treasured in the world. Their scarcity, cultivation difficulties and short, localized seasons make them a culinary luxury. And their unique earthy flavor enriches dishes from pasta to cheeses to salami. It’s a delicacy for which gourmets and gastronomes will pay handsomely. So scouring the misty, autumnal countryside of Tuscany, Le Marche or Piedmont country to go truffle hunting in Italy is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime. Our travel experts are on standby to help you find these buried treasures and in the meantime make sure you leave us a comment with your favorite truffle recipes to whet our appetites! Buon appetito!

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The Best Truffle Hunting in Italy

I have been dreaming of going truffle hunting in Italy for years, so when we booked our trip to Italy last fall, my top priority was experiencing this unique Italian tradition. I took to the internet as well as a few locals I know to find out where we should go truffle hunting. We ended up choosing the family-owned, Black Truffle Lodge which runs Wild Foods Italy , located in the charming hamlet of Pettino, Umbria and it was one of the best experiences of our lives. More than just a truffle hunt, the adventure with Wild Foods Italy is “a day immersed in the culture and traditions of our family who have been hunting truffles in this region of Italy for centuries unknown.”

In the stunning Apennine Mountains on a warm fall day, surrounded by the colorful changing leaves of European beech trees, we follow truffle hunter Luca (who looks every bit the part in his muted camo, newsboy cap, and truffle spade) and his spotted truffle dogs Picchio, Vespa, and Musi, as they search for the buried culinary treasures. It’s not long before Picchio comes running back to us with his first truffle of the day. “Brava, Picchio, Brava!” exclaims Luca as he gives Picchio a treat in exchange for his discovery.

The day is filled with many more truffle finds as we stroll through the peaceful countryside. It’s a marvel to watch the dogs work at their craft, adeptly locating the prized Umbrian truffles, usually found growing near the base of trees. Once we’ve gathered our bounty, Luca and Mac take us to a picturesque spot in the hills with sweeping views of the unspoiled Italian countryside for a traditional Umbrian hunter’s lunch. We get to taste the freshly dug truffles shaved atop scrambled eggs and local, homemade pecorino cheese. The combination is beautiful, only made better by the stunning location and refreshing prosecco pairing.

In the distance, I hear the jangling of bells moving closer to us and soon see the family shepherd, his flock, and their pack of fluffy, white Maremma sheepdogs coming over the mountain to join us for lunch. The sheep settle in around us, grazing on the hilltop, while the large, friendly Maremma dogs greet us with gentle nuzzles and sniffs, hoping for a snack.

After our mountaintop truffle lunch, we hop in 4x4s with Luca and Mac and head back to the tiny, Ancestral village of Pettino, to continue our culinary adventure at The Black Truffle Lodge . Greeted with a glass of local Italian red, we settle in for a true farm-to-table experience, where almost everything served comes from their small, family-owned farm. In a centuries-old, rustic stone-walled farmhouse, Luca shaves thin layers of prosciutto for us to snack on, while Francesca prepares the wooden table for making fresh, traditional pasta. Francesca, whose family has owned this land since 1468, shares stories with us, as she kneads the homemade pasta dough. Luca and Mac pass around freshly grilled bruschetta with a variety of local toppings, including fresh truffle, and the wine continues to flow. Though rustic, the culinary offerings are nothing short of extraordinary. Wild Foods Italy knows their way around ingredients and the kitchen, so much so that a chef from the famed three Michelin star restaurant, The French Laundry , came to them to learn about cooking with truffles.

Once the pasta making is complete, we gather around the communal tables sharing in more stories and wine to accompany the perfectly prepared truffle pasta and other delightful specialties from the farm, all prepared fresh by Francesca and her wonderful cousin, Fabiola. It’s a true family affair, with no gimmicks. Just an authentic experience where they simply share their way of life and the way it has been for centuries. It is beautiful and genuine and I feel so lucky to have been welcomed into their home to have a glimpse of Italian countryside life in Pettino.

Though, a day trip of truffle hunting with Wild Foods Italy is a remarkable and unforgettable experience, we decided to stay a few nights at the beautiful Black Truffle Lodge for a more immersive cultural experience. You can learn about all of the other amazing experiences they offer with a stay at the lodge, such as shepherding, pecorino cheese making, cooking classes, and more here.

When to go truffle hunting in Italy?

You can go truffle hunting in Umbria between mid-June to mid-December. Check Wild Foods Italy website for exact dates.

Black truffle hunting season is quite lengthy and depending on the region can be found anytime between March through November. White truffles are more elusive and primarily found in Piedmont during the fall – early winter, but can also be found in Umbria, Tuscany, and Le Marche.

What to wear for truffle hunting?

You will be walking a lot so make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. There won’t be any difficult hiking, but be sure to have stable footwear, such as sneakers or lightweight hiking boots. Bring layers. We went in the late fall, however, it was a beautiful sunny day and I was glad to have a lightweight sweater underneath my insulated rain coat. Depending on the time of year, bring a rain coat, as a lot of the best truffle hunting is during the rainy season.

Where to go truffle hunting in Italy?

You can go truffle hunting in Umbria, Tuscany, Le Merche, and Piedmont. There are lots of great options, but we loved truffle hunting with Wild Foods Italy i n Umbria. Out of all of my research, it stuck out as the most unique and authentic experience and certainly did not disappoint. I can’t imagine a better truffle hunting excursion.

Have more questions or interested in learning more about our trip? Feel free to leave a message below, email me directly, or contact me on Instagram @wear_this_there .

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The Ultimate Guide to Truffle Hunting in Alba

Why truffle hunting in Piedmont, Italy?

The Ultimate Guide to Truffle Hunting in Alba provides useful information and tells the truth about myths that travelers need to know before booking a truffle tour .

Truffle hunting in Alba is an informative and fun experience that consists of a walk in the woods with the hunter and the dog.

Explore the Langhe, Roero and Monferrato hills located south of Turin, in the Piedmont region.

The Ultimate Guide to Truffle Hunting in Alba: w here do truffles come from?

The white truffle of Alba grows in a large portion of the hills of Piedmont including the provinces of Asti and Alessandria.

Truffle hunting in Alba is taking place in a range up to 45-minutes drive from the actual town of Alba.

In fact, less and less truffles are found in the immediate surroundings of Alba due to the massive cultivation of vines which has led to a significant reduction (or extinction) of woods.

On the contrary, the hills around the towns of Asti and Alessandria (called Monferrato), as well as the hills north of Alba (called Roero), still offer large and wild patches of forest with decade-old trees.

That’s where the delicate environment that truffles need to grow, has not been affected yet by agricultural or industrial sprawls.

Depending on availability, Meet Piemonte will book the experience in one of the truffle woods of the region. Directions and contact information of the hunter are provided after booking.

Is the truffle hunting real or staged?

The Ultimate Guide to Truffle Hunting in Alba has to answer one of the most frequently asked questions: is the hunt real or staged?

Let’s begin with saying that the full truffle hunting experience is a workout, (a bootcamp!) lasting for several hours and taking place in muddy and slippery woods which are not welcoming at all.

Most hunters go out in the darkness of the wee hours, regardless of cold and rain, avoiding to reveal where potential finds might be.

Our trusted truffle hunters though have developed easier routes, nothing grueling but trails set in real truffle woods where usually (but not always) truffles can be found within a reasonable distance.

Those guests willing to try the hunting experience by night come equipped and prepared for it but for the majority of people, understandably, it should be a  fun walk in the woods rather than a bootcamp!

In case of severe drought or total lack of truffles, it is possible to stage a small black truffle in order to show how the dog finds it: in this case you will be told beforehand that it is a simulation. Anyhow, the dog doesn’t know where the truffle sits and it is not any easier to find it, even if the hunter hid it.

Can I keep truffles found by the truffle hunter?

No! You can buy them directly from the truffle hunter who will weight truffles on a scale with the price of the day.

Why should I pay for a truffle hunt?

Meeting the truffle hunter and the dog is always an highlight itself. Called “tartufai” in Italian and “trifolai” in  Piedmontese, hunters are legendary figures who, in foggy, melancholy autumn weather, go out and look for truffles.

Then, they sold them directly to restaurants, shops or at markets and regional fairs.

Standing there in the woods, seeing with your eyes the alchemy between the man and the dog is just one of the added values of this activity.

On top of that, the hunting can be considered a guided tour in the woods: an informative experience filled with curiosities, botanical notions, facts about the ecosystem, training of the dog and much else.

Ultimate Guide to truffle hunting in Alba : the right season

A truffle hunting can be arranged most of the year, however, each season has its own truffles.

The season for the white truffle of Alba (botanical name  Tuber Magnatum Pico ) goes from the end of September until January.

From April to September,  the black truffle – called “scorzone” – can be found (botanical name Tuber Aestivum Vitt) but its aroma and taste are not as strong. The experience of truffle hunting with the dog is still rewarding regardless of the season!

Locals know that the white truffles of Alba get at their best when the first cold hits the region. So from mid November and most of December is actually the best time.

Do not be influenced by the fact that the Truffle Fair in Alba closes its doors before the season of the white truffle is over. Another great advantage of coming to Piedmont in December is that hotels are less priced and it is easier to find availability.

Are dogs or pigs used to hunt truffles in Piedmont?

Pigs… well… maybe in the Middle Ages, maybe in France. Hard to imagine a hunter driving his car to the woods with a pig in the trunk!

We probably have to thank pigs and wild boars if human beings discovered this edible product of the earth. Considered at first to be a tuber, it is only later that truffles were classified as mushrooms growing underground.

Today pigs are not used and they are actually forbidden. Their way of sniffing and plowing the soil with their nose, ruins the delicate ecosystem.

The dog is the star of the hunt: friendly and with remarkable stamina, the dog runs leash-free with the head down. Dogs are familiar with those woods explored for years inch by inch, since their training began. Only dogs that show an exceptionally keen sense of smell are selected for this task.

The hunter tells stories and answer questions always with an eye open on the dog whose pawns can potentially scratch and decrease the value of truffles.

How long does the truffle hunting in Alba lasts?

A Private Truffle Hunt , or the one included in the tour  Truffle Hunting and Barolo wine tasting , last approximately 60 to 90 minutes.

In the  Truffle Hunting from Turin  the time spent in the woods of the Langhe-Roero and Monferrato hills of Piedmont, is about the same.

When booking a  Truffle hunting with food tasting in the wood , the whole experience lasts at least 2 hours or longer.

Is the truffle hunting an active experience?

Participants are called to help the hunter in the primitive gestures of taking out the truffle from the soil. That is a delicate operation to be accomplished with no other tool but fingers,  feeling the presence of bumps in the ground.

Sometimes smelling the dirt is required to make sure that the nose of the dog did not get misled.

Are rubber boots available?

In winter and autumn the wood can be slippery and muddy while in springtime and summer can be dusty with bugs, weeds and bush.

Meet Piemonte can provide a limited number of rubber boots, to be requested at time of booking. An extra pair of socks is recommended.

Alternatively, trekking boots are suggested.

The Ultimate Guide to Truffle Hunting in Alba: What is a truffle?

Tartufo, Italian for truffle, comes from vulgar Latin  tufera , which origins from tuber, meaning hump, knob and tumor!

Truffle is the common name for several species of  underground fungi , therefore do not think of porcini mushrooms but more of a potato.

Spores are generated in a structure similar to a grape, called  ascocarp . It doesn’t produce seeds nor flowers nor does it have roots, stems or leaves. On the contrary, it exists thanks to the symbiotic relationship it establishes with the roots of certain trees.

Oak, willow, poplar and linden are the four main types of trees needed for the white truffle of Alba to grow.

A complex and efficient system of exchange of water, mineral salts and other essential nourishment explains the relationship between the truffle and the tree’s roots.  

The French black truffle

The most famous black truffle is called  Tuber Melanosporum Vitt  and it can be found in Piedmont as well as in Umbria (the town of Norcia is famous for that!) and somewhere in France.

It has an ebony surface, mostly smooth, while the dark (sometimes purple) flesh is marbled with white veins. It grows in the same period of the white truffle.

The summer black truffle

Tuber Aestivum , known as “scorzone” (from scorza, thick skin or zest) is the summer truffle, the least precious type, wrinkled and dark on the outside, lightly colored – sometimes white – on the inside.

Its smell and flavor is nothing compared to the white truffle but it’s still a joy to find these black ones on a sunny hot summer morning. They release their best aroma when shaved and seasoned with salt and olive oil on a local cow or goat cheese or, even better, cooked for a few minutes.

The Ultimate Guide to Truffle Hunting in Alba: The white truffle

Tuber Magnatum Pico  is the botanical name for the White truffle of Alba, the king of all truffles (and certainly the most expensive one).

Its season goes from end of September until January and its creamy-beige  color contrasts with the white-ish veins in its flesh.

Despite the common belief proudly held by local hunters of Alba that the best white truffle comes only from their area, the truth is that the entire south of the Piedmont region of Italy is also well-known for the same truffle.

It is accurate to say that the soil composition changes from hill to hill and within a few miles their geological age differs of million of years.

Therefore, the compact clay soil of the Langhe hills (near Alba)  represents an obstacle for the growing process, making the truffle generally more bumpy and irregularly shaped; sandy and softer soil of Roero and Monferrato hill districts give birth to a more regularly shaped truffle.

Is it possible to cultivate truffles?

One of the reasons why finding truffles is so rewarding is that they cannot be cultivated.Experiments and studies have been undergoing for a while without effective results.

For black truffles a cultivation system has been developed with more reliable outcomes.

Primitive techniques of truffle hunters and the secret tips learnt from their grandfathers still remain indispensable and are probably the most fascinating aspects about finding any truffle. So that explains the high price!

The price of white truffles, how to buy them

Learn more information about truffle oil, how to preserve truffles, fairs and much else in our post  The Price of White Truffles, Care and Use  or  book now one of our truffle tours.

Photo by Andrea Cairone; Gabriele Ferrero

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Truffle hunting in Italy

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We are truffle hunting in Italy .  Finally! Chico scurries about the paths in front of us, small sticks crunching under the brisk movement.  Leaves float up into the air and then down again, awoken from their tranquil life on the forest floor.  Suddenly she picks up a scent and she is gone, into the trees. 

When her owner Sauro Podestà catches up, she’s digging feverishly at the ground.  Sauro bends down to see what she’s found.  “It’s a false alarm,” he says, “perhaps there was a truffle here, but there’s not now.”  Carefully, he replaces the soil and other organic matter that Chico has disturbed.  

Truffles.  They either make you go weak at the knees or you are completely indifferent about them.  I wouldn’t say they are a polarising item but truffles are in that “love ’em or hate ’em” space.  For those that love them, a sense of delirium overcomes them, simply upon seeing them.  The excitement is heightened when truffles are accompanied by food.

What are truffles?

Best truffle festivals in italy, truffle hunting dogs, lunch on tour, the verdict, where to go truffle hunting in italy, when is truffle hunting season in italy, what to wear, how physical is truffle hunting, where to stay, additional reading on the emilia romagna region, road trip inspiration for italy, travel resources.

En route to a morning of truffle hunting, I reflect on how I feel about these treasures of the turf.  I’m definitely in the nonchalant category.  I’ve never gone out of my way to eat them, quite possibly because I loathe mushrooms and well, truffles are like mushrooms, aren’t they?  I am, however, extremely excited at the prospect of doing the actual hunting. 

Whether I like them or not, the age-old craft of truffle hunting is interesting and I am sure it’s also good fun.  I wouldn’t miss this for the world.

Firstly, they aren’t mushrooms.  Given they are grown in the ground and exhibit an aroma not dissimilar from a mushroom, the connection can be considered a tangible one, but alas it isn’t so.  A truffle is indeed a form of fungus.  It is the fruiting body of a certain type of fungus that is found growing around the roots of many forest trees. 

They grow underground, maturing in late autumn and early winter.  There are many varieties of truffles, however, here in the hills of Romagna, we’ll be searching for the black truffle and the less common white truffle.

Truffles have a unique smell, one that I have trouble describing.  It’s earthy and woody; not surprising seeing they spend all their life in the soil.  It’s a strong, heady smell and not one that is going to convince me any time soon that I want to eat them.  I’m still trying to make up my mind.  The smell, while strong, is because I have my nose firmly attached to it. 

When we are out in the forest, walking through the trees on the hunt, all I can smell is the forest.  Damp leaves, the mist of the morning still hanging on the leaves as we brush past the branches.  I defy anyone to be able to smell a truffle out here.

Black truffles can be found for the most part of the year, with the hunting season extending from March until November. Much more elusive, the white truffle is usually found between October and November.  This and the fact that the hunting season is shorter pushes up the prices for white truffles.

• International White Truffle Festival in Alba, Piedmont.

For the latest information check out the festival’s official website .

• International White Truffle Festival in Savigno, Emilia Romagna

For the latest information go to the festival’s official website .

• San Miniato Truffle Fair

Truffle hunting dogs are integral to truffle hunting.  Chico, Sauro’s spritely springer spaniel is a perfect match.  A bundle of energy, Chico has been by Sauro’s side now for many years, working the land.  As we head off down the trail, Sauro’s other dog is howling, devastated that he has been left home and unable to join the chase.  For now, Chico is happy that she is the chosen one.  We are on private land, but Sauro has permission to be here.  Owner of a pizzeria in the local town of Sant’Agata Feltria, Sauro has been truffle hunting since he was a child. 

With his loyal dog, they know this area like the back of their hands.  Truffle hunting dogs must not only be able to sniff out the fungus but must be obedient and obey commands, especially as it relates to what they are digging up.  They must also be able to keep their focus.  Their playground is a large one, and failure to keep focus could see them heading off just about anywhere.

While truffles aren’t considered rare, they aren’t easy to find.  And while it is said they can be farmed, there is such a unique combination of factors that come together to provide the perfect living conditions for them that it’s not a mainstream process.  This is why truffles are expensive.  

Sauro explains to us the strict rules around truffle hunting, put in place to ensure that this craft will survive long into the future.  There are certain times of the year when hunting is possible.  Hunters must also be licensed.  Sauro watches his dog carefully to ensure he is not creating an undue disturbance to the ground in which they grow. 

Pigs have also been used to hunt truffles but they are far more destructive and “once they find the truffle they are more likely to eat it”, says Sauro.  Italy legislated against the use of pigs in truffle hunting in 1985.

We are hoping to find at least one truffle on our hunt, but it’s a lot like fishing.  The hills could be full of truffles, but it’s hard to know exactly where they might be.  Chico can smell a truffle up to one kilometre away, which is so amazing considering what I’ve already said about the dominant smells in the forest. 

I’ve always known a dog’s sense of smell is significant, but this will really put Chico to the test.  As we walk along the paths, Chico is forever on the move.  Darting sideways, back and forth, until Sauro sees her stop, followed by enthusiastic digging. 

Sauro lets her only dig so far, careful not to disturb the root of the truffle, should she find one.  It’s important to leave as much as possible intact, to promote further reproduction.

Despite the term of hunting that is frequently associated with finding truffles, there’s no heavy artillery involved.  Armed with his vanghetto, a particular type of digging implement, Sauro has all the equipment necessary to perform the job.  Not long into the hunt, the vanghetto is given a workout. 

Sauro finds the first black truffle of the day, pulling it up out of the soil and proudly raising it up.  We are delighted and feeling proud too although we’ve done absolutely nothing to generate this piece of magic.  Still, we’ll all share in the glory.  They are not an attractive item, all bumpy and wart-like.  It’s a good size though and I start thinking about how much it would be worth.  Everyone but me is now thinking about how they would like to eat it.

Our search for truffles today is a rewarding one, with two black truffles uncovered and an elusive white one too.  The truffle gods were surely smiling at us.  They will all fetch a pretty penny, especially the white one, although it seems Sauro is going to savour some of this for himself and his family.

With the truffle hunting whetting our appetite, it was time to go into the nearby town of Sant’Agata Feltria.  Home to Sauro’s pizzeria and also a small shop packed full of truffle goodies.  Here we are treated to some truffle inspired goodies at Sant’ Agata Feltria Tartufi. 

Smooth spreads of both the black and white truffle were mixed with a little oil sitting atop some fresh bread.  This was going to be my first taste of the local delicacy.  The pungent smell came before anything else, wafting up from the table. 

The shop owner, the perfect host, thought it necessary to pour a glass of bubbles.  Perhaps I could get used to truffle eating after all?  The white one tasted like garlic to me, although I couldn’t get anyone else to agree.  Even after eating this, I’m still unconvinced of all the hype.  The taste doesn’t match the smell, which is quite possibly a good thing.  

We leave the shop with a bottle of truffle oil and some of the tartufi spread in our possession.  While we were in town, we visited the Fregoso fortress and the famous, wooden theatre of Angelo Mariani. 

More reading. >>The hills of Romagna are such a hidden location. You can read all about it plus other great things to do in the area here Romagna region of Emilia Romagna

The truffle-fest continued with a long lunch of you guessed it, truffles.  Never have I seen such a celebration of these earthy creatures.  Amongst other truffle aficionados, we had plate after plate. delivered onto the red and white checked tablecloths.  As the owner of Food in Tour poured us a glass of local sangiovese, we tucked into our first dish. 

Lightly cooked egg with shaved black truffle.  A crack of pepper was all it needed.  Simplicity at its best.  The eggs were creamy and the truffle flavour definitely stood out here.  I was also amazed at the vein-like pattern of the truffle.  I couldn’t help but think once again how liberal the serving of truffles was and how much this would cost back home.

A palate cleanser of sorts came next.  Rich, creamy pumpkin soup with popcorn, it was a strange yet tasty combination.

Passatelli with broth and black truffle came next.  I love homemade broth and this was beautiful, as was the passatelli.  Passatelli is known as a poor man’s pasta as it was once made using leftover, stale bread.  Today, it is still made with breadcrumbs, eggs and Parmigiano Reggiano cheese .  It’s a different texture to pasta, but absolutely delicious and perfect for soaking up the broth.  

Even the sides cames with truffles!

The Italians also love to eat, lots.  The dishes continued to come and we continued to eat.  Next up was spinach tortellini, complete with shaved truffle.

The dish of carpaccio veal with cheese and truffle was delicious, although by now, I was happy to let the truffle lovers eat my share.  Our guide Francesca looked at me as only an Italian could.  I could see the thought “How could you possibly give away your truffles?” go through her mind.  It’s considered almost sacrilegious to do so.  

Another glass of sangiovese was going down a treat with all of this.  Truffles aside, which I understand from those around the table, including Stirling, were delicious, the rest of the food was excellent.  Fresh, simple Italian cooking at its best.  I would be happy to return to eat here.

The jury is still out for me.  I honestly couldn’t care if I never ate another truffle again.  As I admit to them being ok, I can hear the screams of horror of every truffle lover in the world. I do, however,  feel thankful for the existence of truffles.  Without them, I would have never been able to do something as fantastic as truffle hunting. 

This was the absolute highlight of my day and I now know so much more about this ugly little fungus that craves so much attention.  Combining it with truffle tastings and a truffle-inspired lunch also takes the hunting to a whole different level, and it’s a tour I highly recommend.

Fortunately for those travelling to Italy, there are many great places to go truffle hunting.  These are the best places for truffle hunting in Italy.  You can book your place now for the truffle hunting season 2020.

There are many fabulous truffle hunting tours.  Our favourites are noted below.

Emilia Romagna

The Emilia Romagna region of Italy has several key areas where truffles can be found.  Here, the landscapes around the Appennines Mountains provide a perfect place for this Italian delicacy.  Towns like Savigno, Monteveglio and Sasso Marconi give close access to truffle hunting for those who are staying in Bologna. 

Further afield, the hills of Romagna, near Sant’ Agata Feltria have their share too.  It is in this area that we tried truffle hunting in Italy for the first time.

We joined Food in Tour a local business specialising in group tours in Emilia Romagna, Marche and Tuscany.   The tour involved the following:

• Truffle hunting
• Visit Sant’ Agata Feltria  – the Fregoso Fortress and Angelo Mariani Theatre
• Truffle tasting at a local gourmet shop – Sant ‘Agata Feltria Tartufi
• Lunch at De Marchesi Restaurant
• Visit Santarcangelo di Romagna – underground caves and Stamperia Artigiana Marchi 

The tour includes all activities, food and transport for the day.

The neighbouring region of Tuscany, home to many beautiful cities including the well-known Florence is also home to truffles.  Truffles can be found in Tuscany around Maremma, Casentino, San Miniato, Mugello and Tuscany.

Book a truffle hunting tour in Tuscany here.

Piedmont is the far north-western tip of Italy is particularly known for white truffles.  The International White Truffle Festival is held in Alba each year, where truffles are sold at sky-high prices.  The provinces of Monferrato and Asti are also truffle areas.

Book a truffle hunting tour in Piedmont here .

Further south in central Italy, the region of Umbria also shines in the production of white truffles especially.  The white truffles are more likely to be found around Orvieto and the Tevere Valley.  For those in search of black truffles, try the areas around the Trevi and Subasio mountains and the Nera, Corno and Sordo River.

Book a truffle hunting tour in Umbria here.

Tip : Whatever tour you take, we highly recommend taking one that includes a truffle lunch.  It’s the complete rounding out of the whole truffle hunting experience. This fabulous tour operates from Florence and includes truffle hunting, a cooking class and a four-course meal. 

Truffle hunting season in Italy lasts for quite a while.  We went truffle hunting in late October during the northern Autumn.  Truffles can also be hunted in winter as well.   Black truffles are more likely to be found from late Spring and into summer (April to June).

Since the truffle season runs for quite some time, (depending on the region), there are many things to consider.  Our tip would be to wear loose, comfortable clothing as the very good tours will see you walking quite a bit.  Our tour saw us tramping through the trees, not on any kind of path and up and down hilly terrain. 

The tour provided gumboots for us, but we were thankful that we had long pants and long-sleeved shirts on, to protect ourselves from the branches.  If you are a little unsteady on your feet, being completely covered will also help, should you lose your footing at any time.

Whatever it is that you wear, always make sure it is comfortable enough to spend a few hours walking around in.  If you don’t like gumboots or aren’t provided with any, then the best option is to have hiking shoes on.

Take a hat in the summertime and a water bottle too.  During the winter months, taking a waterproof jacket is also recommended.

If you have no basic fitness, we would recommend that you meet your friends at a restaurant after the tour to sample the truffles there.  Whilst you won’t be running any marathons, truffle hunting takes place in the woods, where there are no rules for where they might grow in terms of easy access. 

There is leaf and other organic matter on the ground, usually hills, trees and roots protruding and all kinds of other obstacles to get in your way.  If the ground is wet or it is actually raining, this adds another level.  There is also a reasonable amount of walking, especially if you are on a tour that lasts 4-6 hours.

Having a reasonable level of fitness and mobility will make truffle hunting a much better experience.

There are many amazing places to stay in the Romagna hills, so if you make it out here, do yourself a favour and stay overnight at least.

For luxury, boutique accommodation, try  Casa Mara  at Tenuta Mara Biodynamic Winery.  We stayed in Verucchio, another beautiful hill-top city.  You can read the reviews, check prices and availability for L’Oste del Castello on  Trip Advisor .

• Things to do in Ferrara
• The Ultimate guide to spending a week in Bologna
• Bologna Cooking Classes with a local
• The best food tours in Emilia Romagna 
• Scooter rental in Bologna Italy
• How to spend a day in Cesenatico
• Best things to do in San Marino

Thinking about hiring a motorhome in Italy to slowly travel around the country? Our motorhome guides are useful for planning, especially if you are doing it for the first time.

• What to pack for a motorhome hire
• First-time hire guide for campervans
• Campervan safety
• One way motorhome rental in Europe

Travelling to the Emilia Romagna region? Our favourite travel resources are listed below.  We use all of these when planning and booking our travel.

Book your flight:  Flights are an important part of travel and we’re always looking for the best deals. If you can travel mid-week and be flexible, you’ll often find great deals on flights. We also use  Skyscanner  and  Expedia for flight bookings. Dollar Flight Club is a great resource for getting special advance offers and even error fares directly to your inbox.

Book your accommodation:  We all love to stay in different places, from the comfort of a self-contained apartment or house to a resort or luxury hotel. Sometimes we need something quick, easy and comfortable for an overnight stay. 

We use all of the following online booking portals depending on where we want to stay and the type of accommodation we are looking for.

• VRBO and Stayz (in Australia) – great for holiday rentals of more than seven days and often have discounts for longer periods.
• Booking.com and Expedia – two of our favourites due to their cancellation and refund policies.
• Trip Advisor – perfect for getting reviews, checking availability and pricing comparisons all in one place.

Book your rental car or motorhome:  We always use  Discover Rental Cars  anywhere in the world for car hire.  Anywhere Campers  is our preferred motorhome hiring company in Europe, especially if you want to be able to pickup and drop off at different locations (even countries) in Europe. If you’d like to buy your own motorhome in France , we use and recommend  France Motorhome Sales . Use our code FMS1022 or tell John we sent you!

Book a tour:   We travel independently, but when we do book we book them with reputable companies who have a great cancellation and refund policy. If you are looking for advance tickets to an attraction, group or private tours, we use and recommend  Get Your Guide  and  Viator . Both have a great range of tours and flexible cancellation policies. If you are looking to do a food tour in Europe, we also recommend  Eating Europe Tours .

Be covered:  We always travel with  travel insurance . We did it before the pandemic and it’s even more important for us to do so now. We use Cover-More in Australia.  SafetyWing  has great rates for travellers who are away from home for extended periods. 

Be ready : Make sure you pack a few essentials: universal adaptor ,  power bank  and  noise-cancelling headphones

Check out our Travel Resources page for further tips and information to help you plan your travel.

About The Author

Kerri McConnel

A former corporate business executive, Kerri is the content creator for Beer and Croissants, a trusted source of detailed guides on motorhome travel, road trip itineraries, and destinations.

Together with Stirling, they are motorhome experts, having independently road-tripped their way across much of Europe, Australia, and New Zealand since 1995. Back home in Australia, they own their own motorhome and can always be found on a regional road trips, taking in towns that often no one has heard of.

They are responsible travellers; long, slow trips in motorhomes, spending time in small regional communities where the tourists usually don't wander, and spending money in their small economies. And where possible, they travel in shoulder and off seasons, so they don't add to the tourist rush.

As an Honorary Barge Lady for Barge Lady Cruises and a regular on European Waterways vessels, Kerri is also an expert on luxury barge travel in Europe, having completed five barge cruises in France and Scotland.

Kerri is a Digital Travel Publisher Member and former board member and treasurer of the Australian Society of Travel Writers (2020-2023).

Everything written and produced on this site is our own work. there's no AI and if we've written about it, you can trust we've been there, done that!

Read more about Kerri here

3 thoughts on “Truffle hunting in Italy”

Hi Roberto, for Bologna, the one we recommend is listed in this article with Food in Tour. https://www.foodintour.it/ . We went on this truffle tour and it was truly authentic. There are NO guarantees you will find truffles but it is fun trying. Also, this is a truffle hunt on private land in a forest, not in a farmed environment.

I will be in Bologna late Sept and would like a referral on a good tour. I’m worried about having a tour plant(or guarentee) to find truffles!! I DO NOT want to have a hunt like that. Please advise. I’d rather pay more for authentic hunt with the chance of possibly not finding one. Mille Grazie, Roberto Please respond

You lived the good life for that story Kerri. Lovely dog too.

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• Food & Wine

Where To Go Truffle Hunting Near Rome

• November 15, 2018

The Castelli Romani, a cluster of hilltop towns located just south of Rome , are full of unique cultural and culinary traditions. Set upon two volcanic lakes, the towns boast beautiful views and each one seems to be recognized for a delicacy: Frascati for its white wine, Nemi for its strawberries, Genzano for its bread and Castel Gandolfo, well, for the Pope’s magnificent summer residence and gardens. But did you know you could even go truffling hunting in the countryside? In less than an hour, you can leave the bustling city behind and immerse yourself in this ancient ritual.

I had read stories about truffle hunting for years and was interested in learning more about livelihood first-hand. A couple years ago I joined Matteo, a professional truffle hunter who hosts truffle experiences throughout Lazio, and his friendly dogs for a hike through the woods to sniff out this prized commodity. Matteo learned how to hunt for truffles from his father and exuded passion as he recounted this trade to me, from the necessary climactic conditions to grow this fruiting body to the regulations around truffle hunting in Italy and their relative abundance throughout the country.

The Truth About Italian Truffles

Many of the myths I had about tartufi were quickly dispelled. Alba, in Piedmont, may be famous for its white truffles. But you can find more truffles in central Italy than in the north. Truffles are prized for their flavor and for their rarity: they can’t easily be cultivated, and they grow out of sight under the soil near beech and oak trees. It takes patience, experience and well trained canines to be a successful truffle hunter so their cost is largely justified by the intensive labor involved in the hunt.

I had long believed that truffles were a seasonal specialty and could only be found in the cooler months but Matteo explained that five truffle variants could be found throughout Italy depending on the season: there are three types of Black Truffles (Autumn, Summer and Winter varieties) and two types of White Truffles (White Truffles, which have a short window in the autumn months, and Spring White Truffle).

Italy has a longstanding truffle hunting tradition thanks to its mild Mediterranean climate, and countries such as France, Spain and Croatia (which have similar terrains) are also blessed with a plethora of truffles. Many countries are catching on to the truffle trend and you can now find them across Eastern Europe, South Africa, Chile and Argentina.

Truffle Hunting In The Castelli Romani

Matteo hosts groups to go truffle hunting in the countryside year-round. Depending on the season, you will either meet him in the Castelli Romani or near Bracciano Lake north of Rome (both are easily reached by train from Termini Station). After our walk in the woods, he treated our group to a delicious truffle-inspired lunch at his country home, an experience only enhanced by the company of his rambunctious father who shared his wisdom and despair about love, travel and truffles with us over a truly decadent meal.

We enjoyed a mixed appetizer of tender buffalo-milk mozzarella, bruschetta topped with plump tomatoes and roasted potatoes followed by a bundle of thick and chewy tonnarelli noodles. Everything, of course, was topped with the freshly shaved truffles we had found earlier in the morning.

To book your own truffle experience with Matteo, and to enjoy his delicious home cooking, visit Matteo Truffles . You can also order specialty products, like truffle olive oil and truffle honey, in the online shop.

In this article:

Post written by: Livia Hengel

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In A Nutshell

Italy is not one country, but many: an ensemble of astonishingly diverse regions, each with a distinct culture and history, fiercely territorial gastronomy, and proud local identity. From the triumvirate of its great cities (eternally magnificent Rome, artistic treasure-trove Florence, and magical Venice), to the stunning natural beauty of its landscapes (from Alpine peaks to rolling Tuscan hills to deserted Sicilian beaches), the seductive chaos and charm of the Italian lifestyle soon casts a spell over visitors. Italy is a country that grabs you by the taste buds and jolts your senses like a triple shot of espresso. Whether you dream of hunting down white truffles in Piemonte, trekking up black volcanoes in the exotic Aeolian Islands, lying low in the Amalfi Coast's superlative hotels, going off the beaten track high in the Abruzzi, doing some vertical Brunello wine tastings or some horizontal chilling out along Italy's spectacular 7,600km coastline, skiing the Dolomites, boating Lake Como, hiking and biking the Tuscan hills, or simply being bowled over by that uncannily simple plate of pasta at a local trattoria, the diverse year-round wonders of travel to Italy are boundless.

Need To Know

• Most travellers fly from JFK or any other major international airport direct into Rome or Milan. There are a variety of flights and carriers that operate flights to Italy.
• The longer the better when you’re spending time in Italy—you’ll want to allow a week at minimum, but 10 to 14 days is more ideal.
• The Amalfi Coast, Sicily and the Aeolian Islands are perfect for honeymooners, and families will find plenty to keep them occupied in Rome, Tuscany, Florence, and Venice. It goes without saying that foodies of any description will find something to love anywhere in Italy.
• There are no critical visa or health considerations for North Americans or Europeans travelling to Italy.[break]
• Italy is easy to navigate and there are many options for getting around. Most travellers use a combination of a few efficient flights between the different regions, and self-driving in rural areas to explore on their own.
• A large part of visiting Italy is experiencing and appreciating the mindset and the general laid back tone. Go with the flow and you’ll be rewarded.
• Food and wine are essential parts of travel to Italy. It's a country densely packed with regional specialties and culinary traditions, which means there's amazing eating and drinking to do, from truffle hunting and cheese making to olive picking, chocolate sampling, wine tasting and beyond.
• The national language is Italian, but English is widely understood, especially in cities.

Italy is a year-round destination. Each season has its own particular allure in different regions, and each month delivers its own set of amazing food and wine visits. August gets very hot, so it’s best to stick to coastal, mountain, or lake areas. Winter is perfect for skiing, and visiting the major cities when they’re at their most uncrowded.

From quirky rural B&Bs to some of the most luxurious palace accommodations in the world, Italy’s hotels are incredibly varied. A recent surge of smaller boutique properties has sprung up to complement the more traditional and classy hotels, which makes for a fantastic variety of options. Italy is all about dense regional variety, and in terms of hotels this usually translates into amazing views—of rugged coastlines, towering mountains, picture-perfect Tuscan fields, or great art-city skylines. Rent a Renaissance villa or beach bungalow, take over an entire medieval castle or charter a yacht and cruise Italy's islands. With such a wealth of unique and historic buildings it would be foolish not to take advantage of them.

Ingredients

Cheese Tasting —One of our best friends in Piedmont is a real character who is mad about Piedmontese cheeses. The tasting takes place in an informal setting at the counter in his shop. He doesn’t speak much English but his enthusiasm usually makes up for it.

Boat Trip to Capri —The journey out to Capri and back will afford stunning views of the spectacular Amalfi coast and mountains, and gives you a chance to explore the island. It makes for a fantastic day out on the water all told.

Cooking Class and Meal at a Tuscan Agriturismo —Cook with a focus almost entirely on the fresh produce picked from the bio-dynamic garden, and foraged in the property’s woodlands that day. You’ll learn a combination of basic, simple, repeatable tricks and recipes, as well as some fancier flourishes.

Mt. Etna Cycling and Winery Tour —A breathtaking ride along mountain roads through greenery and lava flows. You will stop along the way for a tour and tasting at a local Etna winery.

Truffle Hunt —Head out into the countryside with a local truffle hunter ( trifolau ) and his trusted hound in search of white truffles. Hopefully you’ll end the morning with your very own stash of truffles, which will then be put to good use for lunch.

What They Say

Without question, our trip was a trip of a lifetime! We loved and enjoyed everything on the itinerary as well as more unexpected surprises along the way.

It was an outstanding trip. It certainly delivered what we talked about while providing mystery, wonder and, in Nicholas's words, goose bumps every day.

— Donald W.

We had the trip of a lifetime! It’s hard to check back into reality...you must hear that all the time.  You really did an extraordinary job of creating a bank of lifetime memories for the family!

Everything was so magical. We are so appreciative of the time, creativity and thoughtfulness that it took to make this the most spectacular trip of our lives.

We want to thank you for our wonderful afternoon surprise. The whole thing was fantastical, we loved the boat, the ride out of Venice, and the lunch, which was definitely the best food we ate in Venice. We can't thank you enough for an incredible unexpected experience.

Italy On The Sounder

Price Guideline

$900-3000 USD per person, per day - the wide range representing wide variances in prices from region to region. This typically includes all hotels, ground transfers, guided excursions, and Trufflepig trip planning services and support.

Point of Interest

Privacy overview.

Truffle Hunter in Tuscany

Experiences for truffle lovers.

Florence Truffle Hunter

Experiences for truffle lovers, shared tours & experiences.

Truffle Hunting & Wine Tasting Tour

While Tuscany is often associated with exceptional wines, it is also renowned for its truffles.

Truffle Cooking Class

Discover the joy of cooking with us this remarkable ingredient.

San Miniato Truffle Hunting With Lunch

You will be the host of Francesca's family in their own beautiful XVII-century villa.

PRIVATE Tours & Experiences

Truffle Hunting and Wine Tasting Tour

Enjoy this wine and food experience to discover Tuscany and its people.

Tuscan Truffle Hunting Tour

Board a private air-conditioned minivan with a tour-guide, and travel to San Miniato.

Truffle Hunting & Luxury 3-Course Lunch

Truffle hunt in San Miniato and eventually a delicious lunch with shaved fresh truffles

Exquisite Multi-course Truffle Lunch

Vittorio was a superb host for the day

Francesca and Hilary were both amazing guides!

BEST four-course lunch ever

Cooking Class six stars

Fantastic truffle walk

We recommend this tour

Was so great!

Francesca was absolutely wonderful

Amazing cooking lesson with Francesca

What a wonderful day!

Above and beyond my expectations

Hilary is an AMAZING guide

What is a truffle?

Truffle Hunting Day Trip from Rome

You’re an easy 2 hours from fresh Apennine Mountain air and a black truffle hunting adventure in Umbria

The Wild Foods Truffle Hunting adventure is an easy day trip from Rome and a great way to experience some traditional culture and cuisine from the green heart of Italy, Umbria.

It’s only a 1.45 hour train trip from Rome’s Termini station to Spoleto.  On your arrival to Spoleto station we’ll pick you up and drive you to our truffle hunting adventure.  At the end of the tour we’ll drive you back to Spoleto station for your train ride back to Rome.

If you plan to drive here, then see our location page for instructions on how to arrive.

Truffle Hunting Day Itinerary

Depart Rome Termini station 8:02am

Catch the 8:02am train from Rome’s termini station to Spoleto.  This is a regional train and you will need to book and purchase your own ticket, the train does not usually get full so there is no rush to book.  Visit Trenitalia’s web site to see schedules and train booking options.  We are happy to help you with any information about trains, so please don’t hesitate to write to us .

Arrival & pickup at Spoleto at 9:33am

From here you will be picked up, the station is small and very easy to meet us.  It’s a scenic 30 minute ride up to the town of Pettino at 1100 meters above sea level.  You are welcome to request a stop to photograph the breathtaking views of the Umbrian Valley.

Wild Foods Truffle Hunt

This is our day packed with truffle hunting and gastronomical activities including a big lunch with local villagers.  See the details here .

Depart for Spoleto in time for the 4:16pm train to Rome

After your traditional Umbrian lunch in Pettino, we will drive you back to Spoleto via the scenic drive down the mountains with breathtaking views of the valley.

You will arrive to Spoleto train station in time to catch the 4:16pm regional train back to Rome.  You could also catch a later train to Rome and visit Spoleto’s historic center.

Take a day trip from Rome and join us for a truffle hunting & gastronomical adventure in the spectacular Umbria

€150 per adult (minimum 2 adults)

Children 12 years and under free of charge (maximum 2 children free of charge per 2 paying adults)

An additional €90 will be charged (for up to 4 people) for transfers from and to Spoleto train station.

For an exclusive and private experience: €900 for up to 6 adults and 6 children. Each extra adult €150.

Turn your Day Trip into a mini-vacation and enjoy the Wild Foods Truffle Hunt on us .  All you need to do is book two nights, all-inclusive, at the Black Truffle Lodge.

How to reach us

Località Pettino 06042 Campello sul Clitunno PG Italy Tel: +39 333 498 5387 Get directions here

Travel Agents contact us here .

Wild Foods Italy has delivered unforgettable truffle hunting experiences in Umbria to hundreds of travelers from around the world. Learn more here

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Unveiling the Richness: 15 Truffle Facts About the World's Most Expensive Fungus

Posted: April 29, 2024 | Last updated: April 29, 2024

Historical Significance:

Protected Territories

Truffle Dogs:

Environmental Factors

Elusive Harvest

Symbiotic Relationship

Luxurious Pairings

Culinary Icon

Italian Excellence

French Epicenter

Seasonal Delicacy

Hunting Tradition

Black vs. White

Prized Delicacy

Underground Gems

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