Experience Tuscan Truffle Hunting with Wine and Lunch

If you’re considering adding a truffle hunting experience to your Tuscan trip, this tour at Tenuta Torciano might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a picture of an engaging, authentic adventure that combines the thrill of hunting for prized white and black truffles with the pleasures of a fantastic wine and food tasting.

What we love about this experience is its blend of outdoor activity and gourmet indulgence—no stuffy restaurant visit or indoor cooking class here. Plus, the guide and dogs seem to bring a friendly, knowledgeable vibe that makes the whole day memorable. On the flip side, some reviews mention a late start and a shorter hunt than expected, so punctuality and expectations around the hunt duration are worth considering.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy hands-on cultural activities, good wine, and hearty Tuscan cuisine. If you’re a nature lover or food enthusiast wanting an authentic slice of Tuscany, this could be a perfect fit. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience worth exploring.

Key Points

• Authentic outdoor adventure with truffle-hunting dogs in the Tuscan woods.
• Includes a four-course meal with wine, olive oils, and truffle oil tastings—great value for the price.
• Stunning scenic setting at a historic winery near San Gimignano, with free parking.
• Knowledgeable guides who make the experience educational and fun, especially with the dogs.
• Small group size (max 15) ensures a personalized experience.
• Some reviews note the experience being shorter or starting late, so manage expectations accordingly.

The experience starts at Tenuta Torciano, a historic winery in the charming village of Ulignano. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a warm welcome and a chance to stroll the estate, which many reviewers describe as gorgeous and well-maintained. The first part involves a short tour of the property, providing some background on the estate’s history and a glimpse into the local wine-making process. A family member leads this segment, adding a personal touch to the visit.

Next, you meet your guide and a team of adorable truffle-hunting dogs, typically Lagotto Romagnola, renowned for their truffle-detecting skills. Watching these dogs work is a real highlight; they’re trained to sniff out the prized white and black truffles hidden among the oak trees. According to reviews, Moreno and Alessandro are particularly knowledgeable, providing insights into how to identify the trees and habitats where truffles tend to grow.

The actual hunt itself lasts about 30 minutes, although some guests find it to be on the shorter side. The dogs are talented, and many guests get the chance to dig up their own truffle, which Moreno or another guide will assist with. The process involves a mix of patience and curiosity, and you’ll likely be surprised at how quickly the dogs find truffles in their natural environment.

After the hunt, you’ll head inside for the culinary part of the day. Whether it’s lunch or dinner depends on your booking time—morning bookings serve a hearty 4-course Tuscan lunch, while afternoon bookings offer a dinner experience. The menu features traditional Tuscan dishes, and many reviews describe the food as “insane” and “delicious,” with generous wine pours to match.

The tasting includes local wines, olive oils, vinegars, and truffle oils, giving you a real taste of the region’s culinary richness. The wines are highlighted frequently as exceptional, with guests appreciating the vertical wine tastings and the chance to learn about local varietals from friendly, knowledgeable hosts.

Stop 1: Tenuta Torciano Estate
This is where the experience kicks off, with a brief walk around the estate and a chance to learn about its history and wine production. The setting is scenic, with vineyards stretching across rolling hills, making it a perfect introduction to Tuscany’s wine culture. A key aspect here is the personal touch—family members often lead the tours—adding warmth and authenticity.

The Truffle Hunt
With guides leading and dogs sniffing eagerly, you venture into oak groves to hunt for truffles. The dogs’ natural instincts and training make for exciting viewing, and many guests find it surprisingly interactive. Moreno, one of the guides praised in reviews, is described as both passionate and entertaining, making even the shortest hunt engaging.

Tasting and Meal
After the hunt, you settle in for a multi-course meal paired with local wines. The food typically showcases Tuscan staples like bruschetta, cured meats, pasta, and local cheeses. The wine and olive oil tastings are often described as plentiful and of high quality, adding educational value to the meal. Many reviewers rave about Moreno’s knowledge and friendly approach, creating a convivial atmosphere.

At $367.68 per person, this experience offers more than just a truffle hunt; it’s an all-encompassing culture. The combination of outdoor activity, wine tasting, and a full meal makes it a solid value—especially considering the personalized guides, the opportunity to dig up your own truffle, and the scenic setting.

Some guests mention that the experience is about 3 to 5 hours, with reviews noting that the actual truffle hunt might be shorter than anticipated, often around 30-45 minutes of active searching. While the hunt itself may be brief, the overall experience, including the winery visit and meal, makes it a well-rounded outing.

The free parking at the estate is a bonus, simplifying logistics. It’s worth noting that the found truffles belong to the estate, and you can purchase them at the local market at the offered price—an appealing option for culinary enthusiasts.

Multiple guests emphasize how the dogs’ enthusiasm and the guides’ expertise make the hunt particularly enjoyable. As Lisa_S puts it, “Moreno was a hoot and quite knowledgeable,” and the dogs are described as “darling.” The wines and oils are often praised as exceptional, with many reviewers mentioning they come away with not just memories but also delicious products to take home.

Families seem to particularly enjoy Moreno’s warmth and patience, especially with children, as Marietta_V notes, calling the guide “so kind.” The property and setting appear to be a hit across reviews—most agree that the environment is beautiful and the experience is authentic and fun.

While the tour generally receives high praise, some guests have pointed out issues like late starts—over an hour delay in some cases—and a shorter hunt than expected. For instance, Michelle_R mentions that the actual hunt is quite brief, and the overall experience feels a bit longer for the food and wine portion.

Plus, if you’re expecting a lengthy, wandering trek through the woods, this might not meet your expectations; the hunt takes place in a relatively small area. Make sure to wear appropriate outdoor footwear, as the terrain can be uneven.

Finally, the duration can vary, and the experience might lean more toward a tasting and meal with a shorter outdoor activity rather than a full-blown adventure. Still, many consider this a worthwhile trade-off given the quality of the guide, food, and wines.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and anyone eager for a true Tuscan outdoor activity. If you enjoy learning about regional specialties and want a hands-on experience with knowledgeable guides and adorable dogs, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate scenic vineyard settings and culture.

While families seem to enjoy Moreno’s approach and the interactive nature of the hunt, it’s not specifically marketed as a family activity. Still, if you’re traveling with children and they’re comfortable outdoors, it could be a memorable experience.

If you’re after a unique, authentic activity that combines nature, culinary delights, and learning, this truffle hunting experience at Tenuta Torciano offers a compelling choice. The guides’ expertise, the beautiful setting, and the top-notch wines and food elevate it beyond a simple outdoor tour.

However, manage your expectations regarding timing, especially the hunt duration, and be prepared for a shorter outdoor activity if you’re hoping for a long trek. The value is primarily in the combination of experiences and the chance to hunt for your own truffle, which many reviews highlight as a highlight.

This tour caters well to those who want an immersive Tuscan day—perfect for foodies, wine lovers, and curious travelers eager to see a different side of Tuscany beyond the typical sightseeing. If these sound like your interests, this could be a memorable addition to your trip.

Is transportation included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. You’ll need to arrive at the meeting point in Ulignano, which is accessible via public transport or car.

How long does the entire experience last?
The tour runs approximately 3 to 5 hours, including the walk around the estate, truffle hunt, and meal. The active hunt itself is often around 30-45 minutes.

What should I wear for the outdoor part?
Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for walking in the woods. It’s best to be prepared for uneven terrain and possibly muddy areas.

Can I purchase the truffles we find?
Yes, the truffles discovered during the hunt belong to the estate, and you can buy them at the offer price on the local market.

Is this experience suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, so be sure to specify when booking if that’s your preference.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Many reviews mention Moreno’s kindness toward children, and the activity is generally family-friendly if kids are comfortable outdoors. However, it’s primarily geared toward adults interested in food, wine, and outdoor activity.

What is the booking in advance recommended?
On average, this experience is booked about 35 days in advance, so planning ahead is a good idea, especially during peak seasons.

This Tuscan truffle hunting tour offers a nice balance of outdoor adventure, culinary indulgence, and cultural insight. For those who appreciate authentic experiences and delicious wines, it’s likely to leave a lasting impression. While it’s not a lengthy trek, the personal guides, cute dogs, and tasty rewards make it a worthwhile addition to your Tuscany itinerary. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just curious about truffles and wine, this tour provides a genuine taste of Tuscany’s best.