Truffle Hunting and 3-course Truffle Brunch in Motovun

Travelers craving a taste of Croatia’s culinary treasures will find this truffle hunting experience in Motovun a delightful combination of nature, tradition, and gourmet indulgence. Led by local experts and their trained dogs, this tour offers a chance to hunt for prized truffles in the scenic Istrian woods, followed by a decadent brunch showcasing these delicacies. It’s a perfect activity for food lovers who also enjoy a bit of outdoor adventure, or anyone interested in understanding the culture behind one of the region’s most famous ingredients.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guides and their skilled dogs make for an engaging, authentic hunt. Second, the stunning views of Motovun’s landscapes elevate the journey beyond just a culinary activity. Third, the quality and variety of truffle-based tastings—from spreads to scrambled eggs—make it a deliciously satisfying experience. On the flip side, the tour is self-driven, which might be a consideration if you prefer private transportation or arrive without your own car. Nevertheless, this experience suits those who enjoy learning about local gastronomy in a relaxed, friendly environment.

This tour is ideal for food aficionados, nature lovers, families, and anyone eager to add a unique, hands-on activity to their Istrian itinerary. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about truffles, this adventure promises a memorable blend of outdoor fun and gourmet pleasure.

Good To Know

• Authentic hunting with local guides and trained dogs provides an engaging, hands-on experience.
• Scenic views and small-group setting create an intimate atmosphere perfect for learning.
• Tasting includes homemade truffle spreads, cheeses, and scrambled eggs, emphasizing freshness and regional flavors.
• Educational storytelling and multilingual guides enrich your understanding of truffle culture.
• Tour duration is approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, ideal for a half-day activity.
• Self-arrival required, but transportation can be arranged at an extra cost.

The Experience Breakdown: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Meeting Point and Welcome

Your day begins at the Miro Tartufi location in Motovun, where you’re greeted with the warm hospitality of hosts who speak six languages. Expect an inviting start with three homemade rakijas and elderflower water, a local touch that sets a friendly tone. After a brief social moment and a quick toilet break, you’ll hop into your car for a brief scenic drive—just about five minutes—to the truffle grove.

The Truffle Hunt

Once at the forest, you join Miro Tartufi’s expert truffle hunters and their lovable, well-trained dogs—Bella and Lila—who are the true stars of the show. For around an hour, you’ll walk through the gorgeous Istrian woods, which are as much a part of the experience as the truffles themselves. The guides share insights into how and where truffles grow, often pointing out the subtle signs of their presence and explaining the dogs’ special techniques.

From reviews, it’s clear this part of the experience is both fun and educational. One reviewer shared, “Bela and Lila sniffed out 3 truffles,” highlighting how skillful these dogs are at their craft. Guides are known for being knowledgeable and engaging, often explaining the history and cultural significance of truffle hunting in the region, which adds depth to the activity.

Post-Hunt Tasting

Returning to the family’s summer kitchen, you settle in for the culinary highlight — a three-course truffle tasting. This isn’t just a quick snack; it’s a thoughtfully curated spread of local cheeses, salami, and olive oils, all infused with truffle flavors. One reviewer noted that the brunch far exceeded expectations with “delicious dishes” and freshly prepared truffle dishes.

The pièce de résistance is the scrambled eggs with shaved truffles, prepared right in front of you, offering a sensory experience that heightens anticipation. The hosts share stories about each dish, deepening your appreciation for the regional ingredients and traditions. To finish, indulge in their homemade truffle chocolate cake, a sweet capstone to a savory feast.

Additional Touches

Throughout, the hosts aim to make the experience personal and informative. “Petra and Deana were incredibly responsive,” one review mentions, emphasizing their friendly, family-run approach. The inclusion of local wines like Malvazija and the initial rakija makes the tasting feel complete, allowing you to savor the flavors of Istria alongside the truffles.

Practical Details: What Travelers Need to Know

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience lasts around 2 hours 15 minutes, making it a manageable activity for most travelers. With a maximum group size of 20, you’re likely to enjoy a relaxed, less hurried atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities for questions and interactions.

Cost and Value

At $134.28 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded experience—combining outdoor activity, cultural learning, and a gourmet meal. Reviews praise the good value for money, with many noting the quality of the food and guides as highlights. The price includes brunch and drinks, though transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly if you don’t have your own vehicle.

Accessibility and Transportation

Guests are expected to arrive with their own transport. The tour can arrange transportation at an additional cost if needed, but this should be booked in advance. As truffle hunting occurs in the forest, service animals are permitted, but there’s no guarantee your service dog can accompany you into the woods due to the dogs involved in the hunt.

Languages and Accessibility

The team speaks six languages, making it accessible for international visitors. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, as one reviewer mentioned how accommodating guides are with children.

Why This Tour Works: The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The guides are knowledgeable, passionate, and multilingual, enriching your understanding of truffle culture.
• The dogs are trained professionals—their skillful nose is impressive to watch and adds a real fun factor.
• The scenic landscapes provide a beautiful backdrop, making the hunt feel like a mini adventure.
• The culinary part—from spreads to scrambled eggs—showcases a variety of ways to enjoy truffles, appealing to foodies.

Potential Drawbacks:

• Since transportation isn’t included, travelers without a car might need to arrange this, adding extra planning.
• The forest walk is outdoors, so appropriate footwear and weather considerations are necessary.
• The self-driven nature of the tour might make it less appealing for those seeking private or fully guided transportation.

Who Should Book This Experience?

This tour suits food lovers eager to taste authentic regional flavors and learn about the tradition of truffle hunting. It’s also perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy a walk in nature, as well as families or groups who appreciate a friendly, family-run atmosphere. People interested in cultural stories and regional gastronomy will find the storytelling compelling and enriching.

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and delicious half-day activity that combines nature and cuisine, this experience is a superb choice. It’s especially valuable for those wanting a genuine taste of Istria’s culinary heritage while enjoying beautiful landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, guests need to arrive with their own transport. If needed, the tour provider can organize transportation at an additional cost, but this must be booked in advance.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes, including the hunt, tasting, and conversation.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, but due to the dogs involved in the hunt, there’s no guarantee your service dog can join you into the forest.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the truffle hunt, brunch with truffle specialties, and drinks such as Malvazija wine and rakija.

Can I participate if I don’t speak multiple languages?
Absolutely. Guides speak six languages, but all instructions and stories are clear and accessible, making it suitable for travelers of all language backgrounds.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, and guides are known for being accommodating, especially with young kids who might enjoy seeing the dogs work and tasting the different dishes.

Final Thoughts

This truffle hunting and brunch experience in Motovun offers a beautiful balance of outdoor adventure, cultural storytelling, and culinary delight. The opportunity to see trained dogs in action, learn about the tradition of truffle hunting, and indulge in a variety of truffle-based dishes makes it a standout activity in Istria.

The family-run hospitality and multilingual guides create an inviting atmosphere, perfect for travelers who appreciate authenticity and personal touches. While some may need to plan transportation, the overall value—combining learning, tasting, and scenic views—makes this tour a worthwhile addition to your Croatian itinerary.

Whether you’re a food connoisseur, a nature lover, or just someone looking for a unique experience, this tour offers an authentic glimpse into Istria’s culinary soul, all wrapped in a memorable outdoor adventure.