Traveling in Istria offers plenty of delights, but few experiences are as uniquely flavorful as a truffle hunt paired with a hearty, locally inspired brunch. This tour, run by the family of Miro Tartufi in the hilltop town of Motovun, offers a genuine taste of Istrian tradition—both culinary and cultural—wrapped up in a scenic, engaging adventure.
Reading about it, we’re drawn to the way this experience combines education, tradition, and delicious food. We especially love that it’s led by a local family, sharing stories and passion directly from those who have been hunting and harvesting these prized fungi for generations. Another highlight is the stunning views of the Istrian landscape that serve as a perfect backdrop for the hunt and brunch. The one potential drawback? The tour doesn’t include transportation, so you’ll need to arrange your own ride to Motovun.
This experience suits curious food lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone interested in authentic Istrian culture. It’s especially ideal for those who want a hands-on activity that’s both fun and educational, culminating with a delicious meal that highlights the region’s seasonal ingredients.
Key Points
- Authentic family-led experience: Learn from locals with generations of truffle-hunting knowledge.
- Educational component: Discover how truffles grow, how dogs are trained, and cultural stories behind this delicacy.
- Beautiful setting: Enjoy scenic walks through forests with breathtaking views of Motovun.
- Tangible culinary experience: Partake in a 3-course brunch featuring freshly prepared truffle dishes.
- All-inclusive: Tasting of homemade truffle rakijas, wines, and a decadent chocolate truffle cake.
- Value for price: At $153, you get a rich mixture of adventure, education, and delicious food.
Exploring the Truffle Hunting Experience in Motovun
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The town of Motovun and its scenic value
Motovun, perched atop a hill, immediately impresses with its panoramic views. As you arrive, you’ll see why it’s considered one of Croatia’s most iconic towns. Narrow cobblestone streets wind through medieval walls, and the surrounding landscape of dense forests promises the chance for a genuine truffle adventure. Its location makes it an ideal base for experiencing authentic Istrian life away from tourist-heavy coastal towns.
The family behind Miro Tartufi
The tour is run by a family deeply rooted in truffle tradition. Their estate serves as the starting point for the journey, offering a warm welcome with a drink and a tasting of three homemade truffle-infused rakijas—a Croatian plum brandy. These spirits are a delightful way to start, giving a hint of the region’s culinary creativity. The family shares stories about their history, which adds a personal touch that makes the experience more meaningful.
The walk into the forest and truffle hunting
Once we’ve toasted and heard a few stories, the real fun begins. We head into the Motovun forest, guided by an experienced tartufar (truffle hunter) and his trained dogs. The dogs, eager and well-trained, sniff out the precious truffles hidden beneath the soil, revealing their find with a wagging tail and a dig. The walk covers both the family’s truffle plantation and the wild forest, which has been a truffle-hunting ground for generations.
We loved the way the guides explained how truffles grow—they’re not just underground treasures but part of a symbiotic relationship with oak trees and surrounding soil. The stories of how dogs are trained and the rituals involved in hunting lend a fascinating cultural dimension, reminding us that truffle hunting is as much about tradition as it is about the fungi themselves.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat the reviews say
Many visitors praise the informative stories and the authentic atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned, “The family’s stories made the experience memorable and personal, and the views from the forest were simply stunning.” Others appreciated the hands-on approach, especially the chance to participate in the process of searching for truffles, which adds an active, engaging element to the tour.
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The 3-Course Truffle Brunch
The setting and menu
Returning to the estate, you’ll settle into an open-air kitchen with a view of Motovun’s rooftops and rolling hills. The meal is a showcase of seasonal, local ingredients, emphasizing freshness and simplicity.
The starter platter includes truffle spreads, cheeses, sausages, and truffle oils and salts served with rustic bread. It’s a perfect way to start, offering a variety of flavors and textures that highlight the aromatic power of truffles.
The main course features scrambled eggs with fresh truffles—a dish that many reviews rave about. You can even join in if you wish, adding a fun, participatory element. The eggs are rich and fragrant, a true celebration of this prized fungi.
For dessert, a decadent chocolate truffle cake made with local honey and shaved black truffle caps off the meal. The sweetness balances the earthiness of the truffle, making it a memorable finale.
The value of the meal
All ingredients are fresh, local, and seasonal, and the entire brunch is prepared live in front of you. The inclusion of local wines and still and sparkling water rounds out the experience. Considering the quality, freshness, and the fact that it’s a multi-course meal, $153 offers good value for an immersive culinary experience paired with a forest walk.
Additional Practical Details
What’s included and what’s not
The experience includes the guided truffle hunt, tastings of homemade rakijas, insights from a local family and food anthropologist, visits to the family plantation and wild forest, and the 3-course brunch with drinks. The only thing not provided is transportation to and from the venue, so plan ahead to arrange your own ride or consider renting a car.
When and how to book
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, and allows for flexible booking—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes it easier to fit into your travel plans.
What to bring
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking through forest terrain. Dress for the weather—layers for warmth or sun protection—and bring a camera to capture the scenic views and your truffle-hunting adventure. Don’t forget mosquito repellent and sunscreen, especially in warm months.
Final Thoughts
This truffle experience in Motovun offers a real glimpse into Istrian culture, combining outdoor activity, culinary tradition, and beautiful scenery. It’s a well-rounded way to learn about one of the region’s most famous delicacies while enjoying genuine hospitality from a local family. The walk through the forests, paired with the tasting of homemade spirits and the hearty brunch, creates a memorable, authentic snapshot of Istrian life.
If you’re after an engaging, educational, and delicious adventure—especially if you appreciate scenic views and regional flavors—this tour fits the bill beautifully. It’s a perfect choice for food lovers, outdoor explorers, or anyone wanting to experience Croatian traditions firsthand.
Who Will Love This Tour?
Travelers eager to understand local culture through food will find this experience particularly rewarding. The scenic forest walk and panoramic views appeal to those who enjoy nature and outdoor activities. It’s suited for curious families, couples, or small groups who enjoy participatory experiences and authentic flavors. Keep in mind it’s not ideal for those with animal allergies or mobility issues, and transportation arrangements are your responsibility.
FAQ
Do I need to arrange my own transportation?
Yes, the tour does not include transportation. You’ll need to organize your own way to Motovun, whether by car, taxi, or organized transfer.
What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and sun protection are recommended. Be prepared for forest terrain, which can be uneven.
Is participation in the truffle search optional?
Yes, you can join in the search or simply observe. The experience is designed to be flexible.
What is included in the price?
Guided truffle hunt in the forest, tastings of three homemade rakijas, insights from a local family and anthropologist, visits to the plantation and wild forest, and a three-course brunch with drinks.
Are there vegetarian options?
The main dish features scrambled eggs with truffles, and the starter includes cheeses and spreads, so vegetarians should find suitable options. For specific dietary needs, it’s best to inquire beforehand.
How long does the experience last?
The duration is not explicitly stated, but such tours typically run around 3-4 hours from start to finish.
Can children participate?
While the experience is family-friendly, the walking in the forest and certain food ingredients may not suit very young children. Check with the provider if unsure.
Is this experience suitable for people with animal allergies?
No, because it involves working with trained dogs, so it’s best avoided if you have allergies.
Final Verdict
This Motovun Truffle Hunt & Brunch blends authentic tradition, scenic beauty, and culinary delight into a well-balanced experience. It’s perfectly suited for those wanting to connect with Istrian culture through the lens of food, nature, and local stories. While transportation is not included, the tour’s immersive nature and the opportunity to taste freshly hunted truffles make it a valuable gem for the curious traveler. Expect stunning views, engaging stories, and delicious food—an experience that truly captures the essence of Istria.
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