tartufi

TRUFFLES: Istrian treasure buried underground

Rare, fragrant (or malodorous), hard to find, expensive, unappealing (yet so delicious) – all those attributes refer to the truffle.

The land of truffles

Truffles are fungi that grow underground, in few selected places on Earth. And one of those places is our beloved Istrian peninsula. To be more specific, in the forest between Motovun and Buzet, alongside river Mirna.

motovun

There are black and white truffles. Different varieties of black truffles, such as Tuber melanosporum, Tuber aestivum and Tuber brumale can be found in Istria, as well as the white Tuber magnatum. The latter can usually be found during autumn and winter months, and can reach the size of a big apple. In fact, Istrian truffle hunters set the world record, with an impressive white truffle that weighed over 1300 grams!

Buried treasure

Since they grow completely underground, it is impossible for humans to find them. But specially trained dogs with an exquisite sense of smell are indispensable to licensed local truffle-hunters who search for these delicious treasures.

truffle hunting in istria

How to enjoy them

For all truffle fans, there are countless ways to consume them. Preferably, with simple dishes where their flavour can really stand out, like pasta, steak, omelette, but also desserts!

To really appreciate this unique experience and taste authentic local recipes, join us on our truffle hunting tour to learn all about truffles

truffles

Truffle hunting in Istria

Truffle huntingin Istria

Istria, the peninsula in the west of Croatia, is a beautiful region, home of great wine and cuisine. Many towns of the rocky coast and hilly inland were populated in the prehistoric times, with monuments dating back to ancient Roman and medieval times. Besides sunbathing and swimming in the sea, sailing or diving, the inland of the peninsula is attracting more and more visitors due to its hospitality and delicious food. Many local specialties include the traditional Istrian ox boskarin, pasta and truffles, that can be found in the surrounding forests. So we will start our Istrian tour by visiting surroundings of the town Buzet, joining professionals on the quest for truffles! The path through the enchanting forest surrounding the estate is full of natural rocks for climbing, waterfalls and the underground holds hidden treasures – truffles. After the search, you will learn how to prepare delicious traditional meals with truffles – like tartufata, omelette and desserts – and of course, eat them!

Afterwards, we continue the trip by visiting Hum. With a population of around 20, Hum is the world’s smallest town. It is situated at the end of the road that tells the history of the alphabet Glagoljica, and connects it to the nearby Roč. In Hum, you can taste a special kind of herb and mistletoe grappa, made after the original, 2000 years old recipe.

After this delicious tour in the heart of Istria, we return to Zagreb.

 

 

*Duration approx. 10hrs

*Transfer, guide, truffle hunting and tasting, tax included in the price

*Type of transport: Depending on the number of passengers (car, van, bus)

Prices in eur per person (guide, transfer, truffle hunting)

Upon request

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Truffle hunting in Istria

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