Motovun: Truffle Hunt & 3-Course Brunch with Locals

Motovun: Truffle Hunt & 3-Course Brunch with Locals

Imagine wandering through dense Istrian forests, dogs eagerly sniffing the ground for hidden treasures, all while learning about a centuries-old tradition. That’s exactly what this truffle hunting experience in Motovun offers—an authentic peek into Croatian culinary culture paired with stunning scenery and a hearty, locally-sourced meal.

What really draws us in is the opportunity to combine hands-on adventure with cultural storytelling. You’ll get to see how truffles are hunted by a family with generations of expertise, then indulge in a delicious three-course brunch that highlights the region’s finest ingredients.

One thing to consider: the tour lasts around two hours, which is perfect for a quick yet immersive experience, but it does involve some walking in the woods, so comfortable shoes are a must. This experience will suit anyone curious about food traditions, nature lovers, or those simply wanting a memorable taste of Istria’s culinary secrets.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Storytelling: Learn about the history and cultural significance of truffles from a local family and food anthropologist.
• Hands-On Hunt: Experience truffle hunting alongside expert truffle dogs in the Motovun forest.
• Delicious Food: Enjoy a seasonal 3-course brunch featuring fresh truffles, local cheeses, sausages, and more.
• Stunning Views: The tour includes scenic stops and a walk through one of Istria’s most iconic landscapes.
• Quality of Experience: Guided by experienced tartufar Miro and his family, offering genuine insights.
• Value for Money: At $154 per person, it’s a well-rounded experience combining culture, adventure, and great food.

The Experience: A Deep Dive into Truffle Hunting & Croatian Flavors

Starting at Miro Tartufi, the tour kicks off with a warm welcome featuring a tasting of three homemade truffle-infused rakijas. This initial sip sets the tone—local spirits with a smoky, aromatic flavor that hints at the richness of the region’s culinary traditions. It’s a small but delightful introduction that immediately gets your senses tingling.

From there, a short drive takes you into Motovun’s picturesque landscape, a hilltop town with sweeping views of lush fields and forests. The stop here isn’t just for photos—our guide offers a quick walk through the quaint streets, sharing insights into the town’s history and its role as the heart of Istrian truffle hunting. Expect plenty of scenic vistas and some perfect photo opportunities.

Into the Forest: The Hunt Begins

Next, it’s time for the main event: the truffle hunt in the dense oak forests. Guided by Miro, an experienced tartufar, you’ll enter the woods alongside his trained dogs, whose noses are finely tuned for finding these underground delicacies. The dogs are a highlight—they’re friendly, enthusiastic, and clearly well-trained, making the search feel like a playful game.

Miro walks you through the process—how the dogs are trained, what signs to look for, and the kinds of truffles you might find. You learn that truffles are harvested daily by the family, ensuring freshness and quality. During the walk, the guide shares stories about the cultural importance of truffles in Istria, including rituals, historical anecdotes, and the local reverence for this culinary treasure.

What Makes This Special?

What sets this tour apart is the combination of authentic storytelling and hands-on experience. Jennifer from France, a recent guest, remarked, “Hunting with Miro and his dogs was really interesting, Miro is passionate about it,” highlighting the genuine enthusiasm of the guide. The walk takes around an hour, and you’ll pass through the family’s truffle plantation before venturing into wild forest—one of Istria’s original truffle-hunting grounds.

The Brunch: A Feast for the Senses

Post-hunt, you’re invited back to the family estate for a three-course truffle brunch in an open-air kitchen with views of Motovun. The meal is a showcase of local ingredients—fresh, seasonal, and prepared with care.

The starters include truffle spreads, cheeses, sausages, and oils, served with rustic bread. These provide a perfect chance to sample local flavors and get ready for the main course, which is scrambled eggs with fresh truffles—a favorite among many guests, with some joining in for the cooking process. The eggs are rich, aromatic, and demonstrate the delicate balance of truffle flavor.

For dessert, a decadent chocolate truffle cake drizzled with local honey and shaved black truffles caps off the meal. The combination of sweet, savory, and earthy flavors is memorable.

Additional Details & Practical Info

The entire experience costs $154 per person, which includes the guided hunt, tastings, and brunch. This is a solid value considering the depth of storytelling, the quality of food, and the intimate nature of the tour. The tour is about two hours long, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

Transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Miro Tartufi, marked by a yellow house. The tour is conducted in multiple languages—English, Serbo-Croatian, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and French—and is suitable for most travelers, provided you’re comfortable walking in natural terrain.

Guests have praised the experience for its stunning views, informative stories, and delicious food. One reviewer specifically loved that they could participate in making the scrambled eggs, adding an interactive element that enhanced the meal.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who appreciate culinary culture and local traditions. It’s perfect for food lovers wanting an authentic taste of Istria’s rich truffle heritage, as well as nature enthusiasts eager to see Croatian forests from a unique perspective. If you’re traveling with someone interested in stories and local rituals, this tour offers plenty of cultural insights.

It’s also a great choice for families or small groups who value personalized, small-group experiences. The quiet walk and intimate setting make it suitable for most ages, provided you’re prepared for some light walking and outdoor conditions.

The Sum Up

The Motovun Truffle Hunt & Brunch delivers a compelling blend of adventure, culture, and cuisine. You’re not only hunting for one of the region’s most prized ingredients but also gaining insight into the traditions that surround it, all while soaking in breathtaking views. The inclusion of a three-course brunch with fresh, local ingredients elevates the experience from a simple walk in the woods to a memorable culinary journey.

For travelers seeking an authentic Croatian experience that’s both educational and delicious, this tour checks all boxes. Its thoughtful mix of storytelling, hands-on activity, and hearty food makes it excellent value and a perfect way to connect with Istria’s unique heritage.

Whether you’re a foodie, a nature lover, or simply in search of a memorable local experience, this tour offers a genuine taste of Istrian culture—delicious, scenic, and full of stories you’ll carry home.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, transportation to and from Miro Tartufi is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point, which is marked by a yellow house.

What should I wear for the walk?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking in forested terrain. Weather-appropriate clothing is advised, and bringing water is always smart.

How long does the entire experience last?
The total duration is around 2 hours, including the walk, the storytelling, and the brunch.

Are the dogs friendly, and can I participate in the hunt?
Yes, the dogs are trained and friendly, and you’ll have the chance to observe or even join in the egg-making part of the brunch if you like.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided truffle hunt, tastings of homemade rakijas, the stories from the family, a visit to the plantation and forest, and the 3-course brunch with drinks.

Can children participate?
While not explicitly stated, the walk and outdoor nature of the experience suggest it’s suitable for most ages, provided kids are comfortable with walking and outdoor conditions.

Is the experience suitable for people with allergies?
If you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s best to communicate this beforehand, although the menu features mostly local, fresh ingredients.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Serbo-Croatian, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and French, ensuring most travelers can enjoy the experience comfortably.

This tour offers a delightful mix of terroir, tradition, and tasty bites—a truly memorable way to discover Istria’s culinary secrets.