Truffle hunting + gourmet tasting (transfer included)

Imagine wandering through lush Tuscan woods, dogs eagerly sniffing the air, and the promise of discovering one of Italy’s most prized treasures—truffles. That’s exactly what this truffle hunting experience offers. Set in the picturesque Mugello valley, just outside Florence, this tour combines a hands-on truffle hunt with an indulgent tasting of local delicacies. With knowledgeable guides, trained dogs, and a charming farmhouse setting, it’s a memorable way to connect with Tuscany’s culinary soul.

One of the things we love about this experience is the genuine interaction with expert truffle hunters and their loyal dogs. Watching how the dogs expertly sniff out hidden treasures is fascinating—and entertaining! The delicious truffle-based lunch that follows adds a flavorful reward to the adventure. That said, travelers should note that the tour lasts around 3 hours, which includes transportation, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor activity and gourmet indulgence. Perfect for food lovers, curious travelers, and anyone seeking an authentic Tuscan experience, this tour offers a beautiful blend of nature, learning, and tasting.

A Few Considerations

The main point to keep in mind is that this experience is weather-dependent. If rain is pouring, the forest walk might be less comfortable or even canceled, though the tour provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options. Also, the tour size is small—max 10 travelers—which ensures a personalized experience, but might not suit those seeking a large-group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Authentic Tuscan setting in Mugello with expert guides and trained dogs
• Includes round-trip transfer from Florence, making logistics easy
• Hands-on activity that’s engaging, fun, and educational
• Gourmet truffle tasting paired with Tuscan local products
• Small group size for a more intimate, personalized experience
• Weather-dependent activity, with full refund options if canceled

The Experience in Detail

The Pickup and Transfer

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from your Florence hotel, usually around 9:30 AM, in an air-conditioned vehicle. This early start helps you beat the crowds and enjoy a leisurely drive through the scenic Tuscan countryside. The transfer takes you to a charming farmhouse near Borgo San Lorenzo, where the adventure really begins.

This part of the experience is especially appreciated by travelers who want a hassle-free day—no need to worry about public transport or navigation. The small group size means you’ll likely share the van with fellow foodies, making it a cozy and friendly journey.

Meeting the Truffle Hunter and Learning About Truffles

Arriving at the farmhouse, you’ll meet your expert truffle hunter, who might be someone like Claudio or Mauro—reviewers mention guides by name, and their passion and knowledge shine through. These guides don’t just lead the hunt—they share fascinating insights about the different types of truffles, their seasons, and the history of truffle hunting in Tuscany.

A brief, engaging tutorial explains how dogs are trained—reviewers loved watching Gina, Achilles, or other dogs in action, sniffing eagerly and alerting their handlers to hidden treasures. One reviewer remarked, “Claudio and his dog Gina hunt for truffles with such amazing relationship and skill; it’s a joy to watch.”

The Forest Walk and Truffle Hunt

Following the guide, you’ll head into the woods with trained dogs—usually Lagotto Romagnolo or similar breeds known for their scenting abilities. The walk lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you’ll traverse scenic forest paths with views of Tuscan hills and olive groves.

The experience is not just about finding truffles but also about appreciating the quiet beauty of the Tuscan landscape. Reviewers rave about the “beautiful hike,” and many mention learning about the different plants and trees that grow alongside truffles.

The dogs’ enthusiasm and skill are a highlight—one reviewer called their dog, Gina, “extremely enthusiastic and successful in sniffling out truffles.” Even if you don’t find a truffle yourself, the guides’ storytelling and the dogs’ antics make the walk worthwhile.

The Moment of Discovery

When a dog hits a scent, there’s a real thrill—reviewers say it’s “magical” to see these animals in action, almost like a game. Then, the handler carefully digs out the hidden truffle, often with a sense of pride and respect for the treasure.

The Gourmet Tasting

After the hunt, you’re welcomed back to the farmhouse for a tasting session. This is where the experience truly shines, as you get to savor a 3-course meal featuring truffles—shaved over pasta, infused into sauces, or incorporated into other local dishes. Reviewers mention that the meal is paired with local wines, though beverages aren’t included in the price.

Guests often comment on the quality of the food, describing it as delicious, authentic, and thoughtfully prepared. One reviewer said, “After the beautiful hike, we enjoyed truffle shavings with charcuterie and local bread—simple but divine.”

The Return to Florence

The tour wraps up with a relaxed drive back to Florence, usually around 2:30 PM. Most travelers find this a perfect balance—enough time to enjoy the morning without feeling rushed.

Authentic Tuscany in Every Detail

This tour’s strength lies in its authenticity. From the knowledgeable guides to the trained dogs and the rustic farm setting, it provides a genuine taste of Tuscan life. Reviewers consistently note the warmth and friendliness of the staff—Carmen, Paolo, and Mauro are praised for their responsiveness and hospitality.

The capacity is limited to 10 travelers, which means you get a more personal experience—valuable for those who want to ask questions or enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. The small group dynamic also fosters camaraderie, often leading to lively discussions about Tuscany’s food, culture, and natural beauty.

The Value of the Experience

At $423.79 per person, this tour may seem a bit steep at first glance. However, when you consider the included round-trip transfer, expert guidance, dog-led hunt, and gourmet meal, it offers solid value—especially for those who love culinary adventures and outdoor activities.

Several reviewers have called it “the highlight of their trip” and noted how much they appreciated the personalized attention. The chance to see a real truffle hunt and taste freshly shaved truffles in a scenic setting is a rare experience for most travelers.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Tuscany, especially those intrigued by gourmet ingredients like truffles. It also suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want a hands-on, engaging experience beyond just sightseeing.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers will find the small group size appealing, and those with an interest in learning about local traditions will appreciate the insightful guides.

If you’re after a memorable, immersive experience with a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfer from Florence is included, making it a convenient choice for travelers based in or near the city.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience, including pickup, the hunt, tasting, and return, lasts around 3 hours.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for walking in a forest. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since it involves a hike.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those comfortable walking in nature. Check with the provider if you have young children.

What’s included in the price?
The transfer, guided truffle hunt, and a 3-course truffle-based meal are covered. Drinks are not included.

Can I cancel if the weather is poor?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a full refund or reschedule.

Are dogs or animals allowed?
Service animals are permitted; the trained dogs used for truffle hunting are part of the experience.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
While you can enjoy it year-round, the experience is weather-dependent. Some reviews mention successful hunts even in winter or rainy days, thanks to the expert guides.

Is the guide fluent in English?
Yes, guides like Paolo are praised for speaking perfect English and offering clear, engaging explanations.

Final Thoughts

This truffle hunting experience near Florence offers a wonderful glimpse into Tuscany’s culinary traditions and natural beauty. The combination of a fun outdoor hunt, insider knowledge, and delicious local food makes it a standout activity. The small group size ensures a personalized encounter, and the scenic setting adds to the charm.

It’s perfect for foodies, nature lovers, and curious travelers looking for an authentic, hands-on adventure. While it’s a bit of a splurge, the memory of discovering truffles and tasting them fresh makes it well worth the price.

If you’re in Florence and want to add a flavorful, genuine Tuscan experience to your trip, this tour will not disappoint.

To sum it up, this truffle hunting tour is a balanced blend of education, outdoor activity, and gourmet pleasure. The knowledgeable guides, skillful dogs, and stunning scenery create a truly enriching experience. It’s especially suited for those who value authenticity and hands-on participation over typical sightseeing. Whether you’re a passionate foodie or simply eager to experience the countryside in a unique way, this tour is a worthwhile addition to your Florence itinerary.