Motovun: Truffle Hunt & 3-Course Brunch with Locals

Travelers craving an authentic taste of Istrian culture and cuisine will find this truffle-focused experience a true highlight. Set in the picturesque hilltop town of Motovun, the tour combines a spirited truffle hunt with a hearty, locally prepared brunch. It’s a blend of outdoor adventure and culinary indulgence wrapped into one memorable outing.

What we love about this experience are three things: first, the chance to learn directly from a local family about the centuries-old tradition of truffle hunting; second, the opportunity to see how trained dogs sniff out these underground treasures; and third, the delicious, fresh food served at the end, with ingredients sourced from the region. One possible drawback? The tour is relatively short at just two hours, so if you’re looking for a full-day activity, you might find it a bit light. Still, for those who want an immersive taste of Istria’s culinary heritage, this tour is ideal, especially for food lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone curious about local traditions.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Experience: Guided by a family deeply rooted in truffle hunting traditions.
• Educational Insight: Learn about the cultural significance and history behind truffles in Istria.
• Interactive Activity: Participate in or observe truffle hunting with trained dogs.
• Gourmet Brunch: Enjoy a multi-course meal made with fresh, seasonal ingredients and local specialties.
• Spectacular Setting: Scenic views of Motovun and its lush forests add to the charm.
• Value for Money: At $154, the tour offers a well-rounded package of adventure, learning, and food.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Truffle Hunt in Motovun

The adventure begins at Miro Tartufi, a family-run business known for their passion for truffles. From the moment you arrive, the warm welcome with a tasting of homemade truffle-infused rakijas sets a friendly tone. This welcoming gesture is more than just a drink; it’s a taste of local craftsmanship and tradition.

Your guide, Miro, or perhaps a family member, will share stories about how truffle hunting has been part of Istrian life for generations. We loved the way they shared not only technical details but also the rituals and cultural importance of truffles. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and it’s clear they have a genuine connection to the land and their craft.

Next comes the walk into the Motovun forest, one of the most renowned truffle-hunting grounds in Istria. The forest’s dense oak trees, combined with the scent of fresh earth and the sounds of nature, create a magical atmosphere. The real stars here are the trained dogs, often eager and playful, that help locate these underground delicacies. Guided by experienced tartufar, you’ll see the process in action—dogs sniffing, digging, and sometimes even playfully showing off their finds.

Travelers like Jennifer from France mentioned, “Hunting with Miro and his dogs was really interesting, Miro is passionate about it.” The walk itself lasts about an hour, giving plenty of time to soak in the scenery and observe the dogs at work. If you’re lucky, you might even get to participate in the search, though the main goal is to observe and learn.

Why the Truffle Hunt Matters

The entire process isn’t just about finding truffles; it’s about understanding a way of life. As a food anthropologist, the guide shares stories about the cultural roots of truffle hunting, how it’s intertwined with local rituals, and why these fungi are so treasured here. It’s a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Istria a gourmet hotspot.

The Family Estate and the Brunch

After the hunt, the tour continues back at the family estate, where the real feast begins. Set in an open-air kitchen overlooking Motovun’s scenic vistas, the 3-course brunch is full of flavors and local ingredients. Expect a selection of truffle spreads, cheeses, sausages, and truffle oils and salts served with rustic bread—perfect for nibbling as you unwind.

The main course features scrambled eggs with fresh truffles—a simple yet decadent dish that you might even get to stir yourself, as the guide invites participation. The richness of the eggs pairs beautifully with the earthy aroma of the truffles, making it a highlight for many guests.

The dessert is a chocolate truffle cake, crafted with local honey and shaved black truffles. The balance of sweetness and earthiness makes it a memorable finish. Guests consistently praise the freshness of the ingredients and the care that goes into each dish. One reviewer noted, “The lunch was delicious, and we learned how to make real scrambled eggs with truffles,” emphasizing the interactive aspect of the meal.

Complementing the food are local white and red wines, and plenty of still and sparkling water to keep you refreshed. The setting, with panoramic views of Motovun and its lush landscape, makes this meal an experience as much visual as it is gastronomic.

Practical Details and Highlights

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Itinerary Breakdown

• Start at Miro Tartufi: A family-run hub for truffle hunting and local delicacies, offering a warm welcome.
• Motovun Photo Stop & Scenic Walk: A chance to enjoy stunning views of the town and surrounding forests, with a guided walk that lasts about an hour.
• Truffle Hunt in the Forest: Led by experienced tartufar and his dogs, passing through plantation and wild forest, rich in the scent of earth and truffles.
• Return for a Gourmet Brunch: A multi-course meal with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients, served with beautiful views.
• Duration: The entire experience lasts about two hours, making it manageable for most schedules.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Guided truffle hunt with trained dogs
• Tasting of three homemade truffle rakijas
• Stories from locals and a food anthropologist
• Visit to family plantation and wild forest
• 3-course brunch with local specialties
• Still and sparkling water, local wines
• Scenic views

Not included:

• Transportation to or from the meeting point (which is at a yellow house—easy to find)

The Experience’s Value

When considering the $154 price tag, it’s important to view this as a multi-layered experience. It’s not just a walk in the woods; it’s a culture, a culinary lesson, and a scenic escape all rolled into one. The inclusion of a hands-on brunch, local beverages, and stories makes it more than just a tour—it’s a small window into Istria’s soul.

Group Size and Accessibility

While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours like this typically keep things intimate, around 10-15 participants, ensuring personalized attention. The walk involves some forest terrain, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is perfect for food lovers eager to understand the origins of their favorite flavors. It’s also ideal for nature enthusiasts interested in the landscape and traditional practices. If you love scenic views and authentic cultural experiences, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Istria. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate a small-group setting, interactive learning, and delicious local cuisine.

Final Thoughts

This truffle hunt and brunch in Motovun deliver more than just a fun outdoor activity—they provide a genuine insight into Istria’s culinary traditions. The combination of a scenic forest walk, expert guidance, and a mouthwatering feast makes it a memorable choice for travelers seeking authenticity and flavor.

The experience offers excellent value, especially for those who want to connect with local culture, learn about centuries-old traditions, and enjoy a delicious meal with stunning views. Expect a warm welcome, engaging stories, and a taste of the region’s finest ingredients.

If you’re after a unique culinary adventure that’s as educational as it is tasty, this tour is a strong contender. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera—you’ll want to capture every moment of this unforgettable day.

FAQs

Is transportation to the start point included?
No, transportation is not included. The meeting point is a yellow house, which should be easy to find in Motovun.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 2 hours, including the forest walk and brunch.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking in the forest, along with weather-appropriate clothing. Don’t forget suncream and mosquito repellent if needed.

Can I participate in the truffle hunting?
The guide will likely include you in the hunt if you wish, especially during the walk. It’s an interactive experience, but observing is also perfectly fine.

What drinks are included?
You’ll get a welcome tasting of three homemade truffle rakijas and local white and red wines during the meal.

Is the food vegetarian or vegan-friendly?
The menu features local cheeses, sausages, and eggs; it may not suit vegans, but vegetarians might find options available. It’s best to ask in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

Can children join?
The experience is suitable for those comfortable walking in the forest; children who enjoy outdoor activities and are not allergic to animals should be fine.

What’s the best time of year for this tour?
While not explicitly stated, truffle seasons are generally best in autumn. The tour runs year-round, so check availability for your travel dates.

Are there any language options?
Yes, guides speak English, Serbo-Croatian, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

This tour offers a wonderful glimpse into Istria’s culinary soul, combining outdoor charm, cultural insights, and a fantastic local meal. It’s a must-try for anyone who wants to turn a simple trip into a flavorful adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: