Our family trip to the Piemonte region of northern Italy was all about food, fun, and a little bit of forest magic. Known for its world-famous truffles, Piemonte offers both white and black varieties, but during our July visit, only black truffles were in season-the prized white truffles are hunted in autumn and winter. Our canine-loving kids were super excited to explore the forest with the truffle dog.
Our Experience with Ël Valët Tartufaia
Through Airbnb Experiences, we booked a truffle hunting tour with Ël Valët Tartufaia, a family-run business with deep roots in truffle tradition. The father-and-son team, along with their expertly trained dog, led us through their private woodland. It was fascinating to see how the dog sniffed out hidden truffles, and our kids were thrilled to follow along, learning about the unique training involved. It was fascinating to watch the expert dog find several gigantic black truffles.
A Family-Friendly Feast
After our adventure, we returned to the family’s home for a relaxed lunch on a shaded patio overlooking the countryside. We enjoyed many local treats featuring the black truffles we had found. The hosts were especially thoughtful, serving pizza and sliced meats for the kids, making everyone feel welcome and at home. We were even able to purchase some of the truffles we had found during our experience.
Tips for Future Truffle Hunters
- Wear sturdy shoes and, if possible, long pants-you’ll be ducking under trees and exploring uneven ground.
- Don’t forget bug spray; the woods can be buggy in summer!
- Truffle hunting is a year-round activity in Piemonte, except in May and September when the forest rests. Black truffles are found in summer, while the rare white truffles are hunted from October to February.
For families seeking a hands-on, authentic Italian experience, truffle hunting in Piemonte is a perfect blend of nature, culture, and cuisine. The memories-and the flavors-will last long after you leave the woods.