IN SEARCH OF TRUFFLE
An exclusive excursion through the woods of Salento in search of the elusive underground mushroom.
In the frame of the Regional Natural Park
“Costa Otranto – S.M. of Leuca “
you will discover the characteristics of the truffle, its history and the techniques to look for it and find it, you will learn the biodiversity conservation actions
Going in the woods in search of the Truffle, be it white or black, is one of the most intense emotional experiences that our territory can offer.
The research takes place during the day, with times ranging from 8:00 to 12:00.
It is an exclusive activity: you and your friends will be alone with the Tartufaio,
to which you can ask your every curiosity!
The real protagonist of the excursion is the dog, who dictates the group’s pace, moving through the trees and sniffing at the base of the trunks.
After walking through the woods, often with numerous “back and forth”, the dog is struck by the perfume at a specific point, and begins to slightly move the earth to attract the attention of the truffle hunter.
He then arrives with his spade (the hoe) and very delicately opens the hole at the point where the dog had started digging, pulling out the truffle with his hands and causing the usual explosion of perfume.
The search for the truffle is simulated, in the sense that the truffles are previously buried by the truffle hunter, so that they can demonstrate their work and that of the truffle dog.
Since the search takes place in a natural truffle ground, it is possible that truffles not artificially buried, but naturally grown on the spot, may also be found.
Attention
Do not trust those who say that they will make you do a “real” search for an un simulated truffle.
Paths and places of research are secrets jealously guarded by every truffle hunter,
and they are unlikely to be willing to “sell them off” to the first one who passes.
Useful information
Important things to know before researching
The search for truffles is a real excursion through the woods,
and it is therefore important to keep some key points in mind.
Clothing
Wear comfortable shoes to walk a couple of hours in the woods. And remember that woods … are woods. There may be some mud, dry leaves: wear appropriate clothing. If it’s autumn, remember to bring something to protect you from the rain (a small umbrella or a k-way), if it’s winter bring something warm, if it’s spring and summer bring something to quench your thirst.
Location
The search can be carried out in various natural truffle huts near the city of Otranto.
Even if you can give your preference on one of the places, the last word belongs to the Tartufaio,
who will decide based on the climate and the practicability of the terrain.
Frequent questions
WHERE IS IT PERFORMED?
The research takes place in natural truffle hunters in the surrounding areas of Otranto.
The truffle hunter will choose the location.
WHEN SHOULD I PAY?
Payment must be made at the time of booking with paypal or credit card.
IN WHICH PERIOD CAN THE SEARCH BE DONE?
All year round, based on the harvest periods for the different species.
HOW LARGE GROUPS CAN BE?
Maximum 5 people. To ensure a peaceful search for the dog.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I ARRIVE LATE?
The delay of more than 30 minutes, compared to the defendant by the booker, entails the cancellation of the search without any refund of the amount paid.
CAN TRUFFLES FOUND DURING THE SEARCH BE KEEPED?
The truffles found during the research are owned by the accompanying truffle hunter, but it is obviously possible to buy them directly from him.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO CANCEL THE RESERVATION?
If you cancel within 10 days of booking, the full amount paid will be returned. From 9 to 3 days 50% will be returned, net of commissions.
With less than 3 days notice, the full amount paid will be retained.
WHAT HAPPENS IF THERE IS A BAD WEATHER?
If for any reason the truffle hunter has to cancel the search (for example unfavorable weather conditions), the full amount will be refunded.
PRICES
The price of the research is € 120.00 for two people + € 12 for each additional person.
Children up to 10 years: free.
Possible interpreter: 120 €.
TIMETABLES AND DURATION
The research can be carried out every day from 8:00 to 12:00 and lasts 1h / 1: 30h
EXCLUSIVE SEARCH
Unlike other proposals in the area, this activity is completely exclusive: you will not be united with other groups, you and your friends will be alone with the truffle hunter!
Game of flavors
The excursion will end with a tasting of the best dishes in the Accademia del Tartufo or for those interested in other locations with Catering service, subject to a quote.
BOOK YOUR TABLE NOW: Contact us
