Motovun: Truffle Hunting & 3-Course Brunch with Local Dogs

Summary

Motovun forest truffle hunt with brunch and local wine

You’ll join local hunters and their clever dogs for a real truffle hunt in Motovun’s woods—muddy boots included—before sharing a three-course brunch with fresh truffles, homemade cheese, Malvazija wine, and plenty of laughter around a family kitchen table.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the smell—earthy and sharp, like rain-soaked leaves mixed with something deeper. We’d barely finished our tiny glasses of rakija (I tried not to cough; Miro grinned at me) when Bella and Lila started bouncing around our feet, tails going wild. Our guide, Ivana, handed us elderflower water and told us about her family’s truffle stories—her grandfather apparently found one the size of a fist once, but she said that’s rare. The drive to the grove was short but winding, all green hills and that view of Motovun perched above us like it might float away.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on a truffle hunt. Bella darted off into the undergrowth, nose down, while Lila kept circling back for head scratches. Ivana explained how the dogs are trained (she called them “the real experts”) and let us try to spot signs ourselves—not that we were any good at it. When Bella finally pawed at the ground and Ivana knelt beside her, I held my breath. She unearthed this small lump, muddy and unimpressive-looking until she sliced it open—then that scent hit again, stronger than before. It’s weird how something so plain can feel like treasure in your hand.

Back at their house, we crowded into a sunlit kitchen where Ivana’s mom had already laid out plates of truffle cheese and salami. The eggs came next—scrambled right in front of us while someone poured Malvazija into our glasses. I tried to say “hvala” (thank you) properly; Li laughed at my accent but nodded approvingly anyway. The chocolate cake at the end was almost too rich with truffle honey—I still think about that last bite when I smell dark chocolate now.

It wasn’t fancy or rushed—just people sharing food and stories on a slow morning in Motovun. The dogs curled up under the table by the time we left. I kept thinking how quiet the woods felt after all our chatter faded out behind us.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Truffle hunting and tasting in Motovun

• Welcome with rakijas and elderflower water
• Short break and toilet stop
• Drive 5 minutes to truffle grove
• Join expert hunters and dogs for truffle hunt
• Learn about truffle growth and hunting
• Return to home summer kitchen
• Enjoy truffle platter starter
• Watch scrambled eggs with fresh truffles prepared
• Eat scrambled eggs with black truffles
• Have chocolate cake with truffle honey dessert
• Listen to stories about truffles and region

Top questions

How long does the Motovun truffle hunting tour last?

The whole experience takes about 2-3 hours including the hunt and brunch.

Is pickup included for this Motovun truffle hunting tour?

No hotel pickup; guests follow guides in their own cars for a short drive to the grove.

Are drinks included during the brunch?

Yes, you’ll get welcome rakija shots, elderflower water, and Malvazija white wine during brunch.

Can vegetarians join this Motovun truffle brunch?

The menu is focused on eggs, cheese, bread, salad; meat can be avoided if needed but check ahead for dietary needs.

Are children allowed on this Motovun truffle hunting tour?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels and families are welcome.

Can I bring my service animal on the tour?

Service animals are allowed but may not join in the forest due to working dogs present; contact hosts first.

What is included in the three-course truffle brunch?

You’ll have a platter of spreads/cheese/salami/bread/salad with black truffles, scrambled eggs with fresh black truffles cooked in front of you, plus chocolate cake with truffle honey.

What’s included

Your morning includes welcome rakija shots and elderflower water on arrival before heading out for an hour-long guided walk through Motovun’s woods with two trained dogs. Afterward you’ll gather at a family home for a three-course brunch featuring fresh black truffles—cheese platter, scrambled eggs cooked before your eyes, chocolate cake—and local Malvazija wine before saying goodbye to your hosts.