Motovun: Truffle Hunt & 3-Course Brunch with Locals

Contents show

Motovun: Truffle Hunt & 3-Course Brunch with Locals — A Taste of Istrian Tradition

If you’re curious about the mysterious world of truffles and want to experience a genuine slice of Istrian life, this tour offers a memorable way to do so. Led by a local family and a food anthropologist, it combines hunting for these prized delicacies with a hearty, farm-to-table meal in the heart of Croatia’s lush interior.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to learn about traditional truffle hunting from a family who has been doing it for generations. Second, the chance to explore the dense oak forests surrounding Motovun, with trained dogs guiding the way. Third, the delicious three-course brunch featuring fresh ingredients, finishing with a decadent chocolate truffle cake that’s hard to beat.

A potential consideration is the physical aspect of the walk through forested terrain, which may not be ideal for everyone. It’s a good fit for those who enjoy light outdoor activity and are prepared for some walking. This tour is perfect for foodies, nature lovers, and travelers who appreciate authentic local traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Authentic Tradition: Experience truffle hunting with a family that has been preserving this craft for generations.
Educational and Fun: Gain insights into the cultural significance of truffles and their history in Istria.
Scenic Landscape: Walk through beautiful oak forests near Motovun, with some stunning views along the way.
Gourmet Brunch: Enjoy a freshly prepared, multi-course meal packed with seasonal, local ingredients.
Family-Run Experience: Support a family business that’s rooted in local tradition.
Value for Money: Combining a unique activity with a full meal, the $153 price offers a well-rounded cultural and culinary experience.

Looking for more options in Motovun? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: A Warm Welcome in Motovun

The tour begins in the charming hilltop town of Motovun, famous for its medieval architecture and sweeping views of the Istrian countryside. Your guide, part of the family and a food anthropologist, greets you at a distinctive yellow house, serving as the base for the adventure. Here, you’re welcomed with a drink and tastings of three types of homemade truffle-infused rakija, giving you a taste of local spirits that set the tone for the day.

The Truffle Plantation and Forest Walk

From the start, the experience is designed to be both educational and immersive. You’ll visit a family-owned truffle plantation, where you get a glimpse of how truffles are cultivated and celebrated in Istria. This visit offers a rare insight into the agricultural side of truffle production, contrasting with the wild forest hunt that follows.

Then, it’s into the dense oak forests—one of the region’s original truffle-hunting grounds. Guided by an expert tartufar and his trained dogs, your group will trek into the wild, passing through the plantation and into the wooded landscape. Expect a relaxed walk, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and enjoy the stunning views of Motovun and the surrounding hills.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Art of Truffle Hunting

The real highlight? Watching the dogs in action. These trained animals have a keen nose for locating truffles hidden under the soil, and guests often find the experience charming and insightful. According to reviews, it’s fascinating to learn how dogs are trained and the rituals involved in the hunt. One guest mentioned, “I loved the way the dogs were so eager and trained to find the truffles, it was a real eye-opener.”

The hunt is not just about finding truffles—it’s a cultural journey into a practice that has been treasured here for generations. The guide shares stories and insights about the history and cultural roots of truffle hunting, making it a meaningful experience rather than just a fun activity.

There's plenty more to explore in Motovun

The Three-Course Truffle Brunch

Returning to the estate, you’ll be treated to a delicious, freshly prepared meal in the open-air kitchen with panoramic views of Motovun. The menu is designed to highlight seasonal and local produce, emphasizing the freshness and authenticity of ingredients.

The meal begins with homemade truffle spreads, local cheeses, sausages, and truffle oils and salts, served with rustic bread. This setup offers a perfect way to sample different flavors and aroma profiles of the region’s truffles.

For the main course, scrambled eggs with fresh truffles are prepared right in front of you, offering the chance to participate if you wish. The simplicity of the dish allows the quality of the truffles to shine. One reviewer mentioned, “It was so much fun to help scramble the eggs and taste the fresh truffles—it really made the meal special.”

The dessert is a rich chocolate truffle cake made with local honey and topped with shaved black truffle, creating a decadent end to the feast. The meal is complemented by still and sparkling water, as well as local white and red wine, allowing you to relax and soak in the scenery.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Beyond the activities, this tour stands out because it combines culinary exploration with cultural storytelling, making for a well-rounded experience. The family-run aspect adds authenticity, and many reviewers appreciate how passionate and knowledgeable the guides are. The stunning views of the Istrian landscape serve as a picturesque backdrop for both the hunt and the meal, elevating the entire experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, with the walking portion taking about an hour. It’s suitable for most ages, but comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Also, bringing a camera to capture the beautiful vistas and moments of the hunt is highly encouraged.

While the tour price of $153 per person might seem steep, it covers everything from the truffle hunt to the full brunch, all prepared with ingredients that are fresh and locally sourced. It’s a value-packed experience for those interested in food, culture, and nature.

Accessibility and Additional Info

Transport to the starting point isn’t included, so planning your own way there is necessary. The activity is offered in several languages, including English, Italian, Serbo-Croatian, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, making it accessible to a broad audience.

You can reserve and pay later, offering flexibility for your trip planning. If animal allergies are a concern, it’s worth noting that the experience involves contact with dogs, and it’s not suitable for allergy sufferers.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideal for food lovers who want to taste authentic local flavors and learn about traditional practices. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic walks and the chance to see the forests that produce these prized truffles. It also suits travelers seeking a cultural connection, guided by passionate locals who share stories and insights behind the activity.

Couples, families, or small groups will appreciate the intimate, family-run setting, which feels genuine and personal. If you’re after a unique activity that combines culinary delights with outdoor adventure, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

The Motovun Truffle Hunt & Brunch offers a wonderfully balanced experience, blending culinary discovery, outdoor activity, and cultural storytelling. The chance to hunt for truffles with trained dogs, explore lush forests, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal makes for a truly memorable day. It’s especially suited for those who value authenticity and want to explore Istria’s famed truffle culture.

For travelers seeking a small-group, family-run experience with stunning views and delicious cuisine, this tour provides great value. The combination of learning, tasting, and scenic beauty makes it a worthwhile addition to any Istrian itinerary.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 3 hours, including the walk, the hunt, and the meal.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Transport isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the starting point in Motovun.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as there’s walking involved in forested terrain.

Can I participate in the cooking?
Yes, you’re invited to join in preparing the scrambled eggs with fresh truffles if you like.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the truffle hunt with dogs, tastings of homemade rakijas, the visit to the plantation, the full three-course brunch, water, and local wines.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, but consider their comfort with walking and animals. It’s not specifically designed as a children’s activity.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is available in multiple languages including English, Italian, Serbo-Croatian, Portuguese, Spanish, and French.

Supporting a family business and enjoying authentic Istrian traditions, this tour is a tasty way to connect with the local culture. It’s a perfect pick for those who love good food, scenic walks, and stories that bring the landscape and history to life.