We invite you to an unforgettable truffle-themed adventure. We will start the day by visiting Motovun, a charming town located on a hill at 277m height, which can be accessed by 1052 steps. Due to the picturesque location and its medieval looks, Motovun is said to be one of the most beautiful old towns in the Mediterranean basin. It is the favourite destination for conferences and cultural tourism. At the end of July, the film festival takes place here. Our licensed guide will tell you about the story of the town and will guide you to the most precious monument sites. During the walk, we will have a chance to admire breath-taking panoramic views of vast forests, where amongst others grow underground mushrooms called truffles. In the vineyards surrounding hills, the noblest types of grapes are cultivated. These are often indigenous types, typical of this region.
Following the sightseeing, we will visit a family household, where a truffle-picking tradition has been maintained for generations. Family members will tell us about the origins of their adventure with mushrooms and the search methods, as well as dogs that play a key role in the process.
Truffles are edible mushrooms that grow by the tree roots of poplar, oak, beech, willow, linden, or walnut tree. They look like bulbs and they have specific taste and aroma. Also, specially trained dogs are used to search for these precious mushrooms. Truffles are deeply rooted in Istria history. Roman emperors and Austrian-Hungarian nobility enjoyed its sophisticated taste and aroma. Truffle products are often listed as aphrodisiacs.