Excursion On the trail of truffles tour at Rovinj

Discover the world of delicious, prized truffles and how to procure them during this scenic sightseeing journey to Motovun and Vrh. Your full-day excursion starts with a guided tour of Motovun town. Then, join a guided truffle hunt with the Karlic family in the Motovun Forest, led by trained dogs, in search of prized black and white truffles. Conclude your experience back at the Karlic home with a cooking demo and tasting of truffle-infused delicacies, local wine, and other regional treats.

Motovun Village, Medieval Setting, Mirna Valley

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive to Motovun, one of the most beautiful towns in Istria. This hilltop town has retained its medieval feel along its narrow streets and within its well-preserved, intact town walls. Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour past the Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance-style buildings en route to the main square, which is dominated by the 13th-century belfry of St. Stephen's Church. Take in splendid views of the Mirna River Valley below. Following your tour, some free time is made available to explore the village and browse the shops at your leisure.

Vrh Village, Karlic Family Home, Local Liqueur

Then, commence the approximately 30-minute drive to the village of Vrh, which overlooks Lake Butoniga. Upon arrival, proceed for a visit to the home of the Karlic family, who are said to have started the tradition of truffle-hunting in Istria. Your visit begins with a tasting of traditional local liqueur.

Motovun Forest, Truffle Hunt, Cooking Demo, and a Tasting of Truffle Specialties

Next, leave the Karlic home and head downhill, led by specially trained dogs, to the famous Motovun Forest to experience the adventure of hunting for black and precious white truffles. After an approximately 75-minute search for these treasured delicacies, return to the Karlic home to learn how to prepare a few delicacies with truffles. Your excursion culminates with a tasting of local wine, truffle-flavored delicacies such as cheeses, honey, and pâté, fritaja eggs with truffle, and other truffle goodies, all served by your friendly hosts.

At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to Rovinj.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Motovun Village, Central Istria, Vrh Village, Lake Butoniga, Karlic Family Home, Truffle Hunt, Tastings of Truffle Specialities, Wine

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.9 miles (about 1.4 kilometre), at times over uneven, gravel, and cobblestone surfaces and inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Approach to Motovun is very uphill and a local shuttle is used for this purpose. The shuttle runs on first come, first serve basis so there might be a queue waiting for the shuttle transfer. Credit cards are not accepted in all venues, we suggest to bring local currency. Guests must be at least eight years old to participate on this tour. Guests must be at least 18 years old to be served alcoholic beverages. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.