Truffle hunting + gourmet tasting (transfer included)

A Deep Dive into the Truffle Hunting & Gourmet Tasting Tour near Florence

If you’re visiting Florence and craving an authentic taste of Tuscany’s wild side, this truffle hunting tour in Mugello offers a fascinating blend of nature, gastronomy, and local culture. For around $423.79 per person, you’ll spend roughly 3 hours exploring the woods with a seasoned truffle hunter, followed by a gourmet tasting at a charming farmhouse. The trip includes pickup and transfer services, making logistics seamless.

What we love most about this experience is how interactive it is—walking through Tuscan forests with trained dogs (not pigs, which are often used elsewhere) is both educational and fun, especially as you watch the dogs sniff out these coveted treasures. Plus, the gourmet lunch featuring truffle dishes elevates the experience beyond just a walk in the woods, giving you a real taste of regional cuisine.

One possible consideration is that the tour length is just about three hours, which might feel short if you’re hoping for a full day of exploration. But for most, the combo of hunting and tasting hits the sweet spot for a memorable outing. It’s particularly suited for food lovers, families, or anyone eager to see the authentic side of Tuscany beyond its famous art and architecture.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Guided by local experts with passionate dogs, not pigs.
• Beautiful setting: Located in the scenic Mugello valley, near Barberino di Mugello.
• Inclusive logistics: Pickup from Florence and transfer included.
• Gourmet tasting: Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal with truffle dishes.
• Flexible cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Great reviews: Consistently rated 5 out of 5, with travelers calling it the highlight of their trip.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This tour isn’t just about finding truffles; it’s about learning how these culinary gems grow and are hunted in the wild. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience approachable whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler. The dogs—particularly Gina and Achilles—are stars of the show, and their enthusiasm shows in the countless reviews describing how fun it is to watch them in action.

The scenic landscape of Mugello plays a vital role here. As one reviewer put it, “the location is gorgeous,” with the woods around the farm providing an ideal backdrop for truffle hunting. The environment is not only beautiful but also relatively untouched, offering a feeling of authenticity that many travelers seek.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The day begins at around 9:30 AM with a pickup from your Florence hotel. This seamless transfer is a real convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally and want to avoid public transport or parking hassles. By 10:30 AM, you’ll arrive at a picturesque farmhouse in Borgo San Lorenzo where your guides, including a professional truffle hunter, await.

The core of the experience is a guided walk in the forest, which lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Here, you’ll learn the secrets of truffle hunting—why dogs are preferred over pigs, how to recognize the right spots, and the history of these prized fungi. The guides are lauded for their depth of knowledge—one reviewer mentions Claudio’s, the hunter’s, skill and the bond he shares with his dog Gina.

During the walk, you’ll be actively involved as the trained dogs sniff out hidden truffles, and you’ll have the chance to observe their techniques firsthand. It’s a real treat to see Gina and Achilles in action, excitedly digging or alerting their handlers.

After the hunt, a delicious Tuscan lunch awaits at the farmhouse. The meal typically features local products, with a focus on dishes infused with or topped with fresh shaved truffles. Guests often describe the food as “delicious,” with one reviewer noting “appetizers and charcuterie with truffle shaving” as a highlight. Beverages are included, but alcoholic drinks are not, so plan accordingly if you want to indulge.

The entire morning wraps up with a return transfer to Florence, arriving around 2:30 PM, leaving plenty of time to enjoy other sights in the city afterward.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with comments like “Paolo was very friendly and answered all our questions,” and “Claudio’s relationship with his dog Gina was amazing.” The scenery gets high marks too—several mention how gorgeous the woods and farm surroundings are, making for a relaxing yet exciting morning.

Many travelers highlight the fun of watching the dogs in action. One reviewer states, “Gina’s nose was incredible,” while another remarks, “Achilles was extremely enthusiastic and successful in sniffling out truffles.” These descriptions show that you’re not just watching a demonstration but actively participating in a hands-on experience.

The gourmet tasting often becomes a memorable part of the day. Numerous reviews mention “delicious appetizers,” “truffle shavings,” and “authentic regional flavors,” emphasizing how the food complements the hunt perfectly. Some even extend their day with optional cooking classes, but the tour itself is a great balance of outdoor adventure and culinary delight.

Transportation & Group Size

The pickup service from Florence is punctual and comfortable, utilizing an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour operates with a small group of up to 10 travelers, enhancing intimacy and allowing guides to give personalized attention. This small-group setting is often appreciated, as it fosters a more relaxed, engaging environment.

Price & Value

While $423.79 per person may seem steep at first glance, consider what’s included: transportation, guided truffle hunt, professional guide, training with dogs, and a gourmet 3-course lunch. For an experience that combines learning, nature, and regional cuisine, many find it offers good value—especially as an authentic, hands-on activity that’s hard to replicate independently.

The tour’s reviews highlight consistent high ratings—a perfect 5 out of 5—indicating that visitors find it worthwhile and memorable. It’s especially suitable for foodies, families, or curious travelers eager to see a different side of Tuscany.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits those who appreciate authentic local traditions and want to actively participate rather than observe passively. Nature lovers will enjoy the scenic forest walk, while foodies will value the regional truffle dishes. It’s also great for families or small groups looking for a unique way to spend part of their Tuscany trip. If you’re after a fun, educational, and tasty adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes. The tour provides return transfer from Florence in an air-conditioned vehicle, making logistics simple.

How long does the truffle hunt last?
The actual hunt lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, during which you’ll walk through the forest with trained hunting dogs.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, the guided truffle hunt with expert and dogs, and a 3-course gourmet lunch with drinks (excluding alcoholic beverages).

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

What is the size of the tour group?
The experience is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging atmosphere.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the reviews suggest it’s enjoyable for families, especially those interested in nature and food. It’s best to confirm if your children are comfortable walking in the woods.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking in natural terrain.

Are drinks included?
Beverages are included with the meal, but alcoholic drinks are not part of the package.

Is the guide’s language English?
Yes, guides like Paolo are fluent, and many reviews mention how well they communicate in English.

Final Thoughts

This truffle hunting tour in Mugello is a well-curated experience that combines Tuscan scenery, expert guidance, and delicious food. It delivers more than just a hunt; it’s an intimate look into regional traditions, with ample opportunities to learn about truffles, observe skilled dogs in action, and taste authentically prepared dishes.

The small-group setting and highly praised guides make it suitable for anyone eager for a personal connection and authentic storytelling. Whether you’re a foodie wanting to understand how regional delicacies are made or a nature lover curious about Tuscany’s forests, this tour offers a memorable slice of local life.

If you’re looking for a highly rated, fun, and genuine experience that leaves you with a full belly and stories to tell, this truffle hunt and tasting in Mugello deserves your consideration.