Langhe: Truffle Hunting Experience

History

The Langhe region in Piedmont, Italy, has been renowned for its truffles—particularly the prized white truffle (Tuber magnatum)—for centuries, with records of truffle hunting dating back to the Middle Ages. The practice, led by skilled “trifolao” and their trained dogs, is deeply rooted in local culture, tied to the area’s unique microclimate and forested hills that foster truffle growth beneath oaks, hazels, and poplars. The white truffle of Alba gained global fame through events like the Alba Truffle Fair, established in 1929, cementing Langhe’s status as a gastronomic mecca.

This truffle hunting experience preserves this ancient tradition, pairing it with modern tourism to offer an authentic glimpse into the secretive world of the trifolao. The optional winery visit connects to Langhe’s other treasure—wines like Barolo and Barbaresco—rooted in the region’s centuries-old viticulture, making it a perfect blend of culinary heritage.

Highlights

• Hunt for white or black truffles with a professional trifolao and trained dog.
• Learn about truffle growth, types, and hunting techniques in Langhe’s hills.
• Experience the bond between the trifolao and dog, plus the truffle’s intense aroma.
• Explore secret forest spots in the UNESCO-listed Langhe region.
• Optional winery visit with Barolo or Barbaresco tasting (3.5-hour tour).

Full Description

Embark on a 1.5- or 3.5-hour truffle hunting adventure in the Langhe region, guided by a professional trifolao and their expert dog, with commentary in English, Italian, or French. Meet your guide in Alba or a nearby village (subject to change based on the trifolao’s schedule) and drive your own car (10-15 minutes) to a secret forest spot where truffles thrive. Learn why these fungi grow under specific trees, the differences between white (September 21-January 31) and black truffles (year-round varieties), and how dogs are trained to sniff out the delicacy.

Follow the trifolao and their dog through wooded paths, witnessing their remarkable bond as they uncover truffles, and savor the earthy scent of any finds (truffles can be purchased from the hunter). The tour provides rubber boots and rain ponchos for muddy autumn conditions, ensuring comfort on steep, forested trails. For the 3.5-hour option, conclude with a winery visit featuring tastings of iconic Langhe wines like Barolo or Barbaresco (extra fee), tying the region’s culinary traditions together.

This immersive experience reveals the mystique of truffle hunting, blending nature, culture, and gastronomy in the heart of Piedmont’s UNESCO World Heritage landscape.

Why Choose This Experience?

This tour offers a rare chance to join a trifolao in Langhe’s forests, demystifying the art of truffle hunting with hands-on learning and the thrill of discovery. The small-group or private format ensures an intimate connection to the trifolao, their dog, and the region’s heritage, ideal for foodies, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic Italian experiences.

With flexible booking (free cancellation up to 24 hours, reserve-now-pay-later) and the optional winery tasting, it’s a tailored adventure. The UNESCO-listed Langhe setting and the trifolao’s expertise make it a standout complement to visits in Alba, Turin, or Asti, celebrating Piedmont’s culinary soul.

What’s Included

• Truffle hunting tour with a trifolao and trained dog
• Local guide (English, Italian, French)
• Rubber boots and rain poncho
• Winery visit with Barolo/Barbaresco tasting (3.5-hour option, extra fee)

Itinerary

• Meet at Cimitero or Cimitero di Alba (or updated location based on trifolao availability)
• Drive your own car to the truffle hunting site (10-15 minutes)
• Brief introduction to truffle ecology and techniques (10-minute break)
• Hunt for white or black truffles with trifolao and dog in forested hills (1-1.5 hours)
• Optional: Visit a winery for Barolo/Barbaresco tasting (1.5 hours, 3.5-hour option)
• Return to starting point or disperse after winery

Pricing

From $93 per person

Meeting Point

Cimitero or Cimitero di Alba, Alba, Piedmont, Italy (exact location may vary based on trifolao availability; confirmed upon booking)

How to Get There

• By car: Drive from Alba to the meeting point (5-15 minutes); parking available nearby.
• By train: Take Trenitalia to Alba station (from Turin, 1 hour), then taxi or short drive to the meeting point.
• By bus: ATAP or ARFEA lines from Asti to Alba (30-40 minutes); arrange transport to the meeting point.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes for muddy, steep forest paths
• Comfortable, warm clothing (autumn tours)
• Socks for use with provided rubber boots
• Cash if interested in purchasing found truffles

Know Before You Go

• You need your own car to follow the guide to the hunting site (10-15 minutes).
• Truffles found belong to the trifolao but can be purchased (price varies, often €200-€600/100g for white truffles).
• Oversize luggage is not allowed; travel light for forest trails.
• The tour involves moderate physical activity on steep, muddy paths; suitable for fit participants.
• Meeting points may change based on trifolao availability; confirm with the operator.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Reviews

• Giovanni and his dog Turbo were incredible! The trifolao’s enthusiasm and the guide’s knowledge made this so fun and informative. Seeing the dog hunt truffles was magical, and we learned tons about Langhe’s truffle culture. Highly recommend!
• A unique adventure for truffle lovers! The paths were steep but manageable, and Giovanni’s bond with Turbo was heartwarming. We bought a small black truffle for a divine risotto later. A must-do in Piedmont!
• This tour was a highlight—Giovanni and Turbo showed us the art of truffle hunting, and the guide explained everything clearly. The winery tasting (Barolo!) was a perfect end. Fascinating and delicious experience.