Istria - Truffles: Hunting & Cooking & Tasting, Slovenia
Recommended by 100% of travelers
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Koper, Slovenia
- 3 hours (approx.)
- Group discounts
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Join a truffle hunter and a trained dog to search for black and white truffles in an Istria forest on a small-group tour that also includes truffle tastings, a cooking demonstration, and glasses of Istrian wine. It’s a glimpse of a world that’s often secretive—most truffle hunters search alone—and the chance to try what might be the freshest truffles of your life.
- Learn how to hunt for truffles in the Istrian countryside
- Included tasting features white and black truffle spread, cheese, and salami
- Prepare a truffle pasta dish using a traditional recipe
- Group size is limited for personalized experience
Sample Menu
Starter
Welcome snack with truffles
- White and black "Tartufata" (spread) - Cow cheese with truffles - Salami (pork) with truffles - Malvasia of Istria - non-alcoholic refreshing drink
Main
Pasta "fuži" with truffles
Typical Istrian pasta "fuži", richly coated with truffles. Besides, of course, Istrian Mazvazija and a refreshing drink.
What's Included
- Educational tour of truffle hunting with professional hunter and the dog
- Demonstration of cooking of truffle dish
- Tips and trics how to recognize a dish with fresh truffles (instead with its imitations)
- Welcome truffle snacks: white and black truffle pate, cheese and salami with truffles
- Typical Istrian pasta "fuži" with truffles
- Istrian Malvasia & non-alcoholic beverage
- Taxes, organizational, insurance, commission and implementation costs of the trip.
- ... relaxing under the pergola of the Istrian homestead - priceless
- Tip (optional but welcome at your choice)
- Transfer to/from location
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Gažon Bus StopGažon 18, 6274 Šmarje, Slovenia
The tour starts at the bus stop in the village of Gažon. Your host will be waiting there. There is a parking lot for your car. You can come by bus from Koper.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Itinerary
Gazon (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Most travelers can participate
- Small group - a maximum of 8 people per group.
- A small amount of walking is involved.
- Your dog is welcome, but please make sure it does not disturb the truffle-hunting dog at work. When booking, let us know if your dog will join us.
- The minimum alcohol-drinking age is 18 years.
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
- Part of the activity takes in the forest. In warm weather, we recommend protection against insects (they are not dangerous, only a bite is itchy).
- Children under 7 are free of charge, but "no food, no drink".
- The activity cooperates with (sometimes capricious) Nature, so there may be changes. But don't worry, we'll do our best and let you know in time.
- The whole event (hunting & cooking & tasting) is carried out in Slovenian Istria in the hinterland of cites Koper, Izola, Piran, Portorož and Ankaran.
- Please advise any specific food restrictions at time of booking (subsequent on-site adjustments are difficult to implement).
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 8 travelers
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Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Patrick_S
Our truffle hunting tour was an absolute highlight. It was not just a simple search, but a fascinating and very educational journey of discovery through the picturesque places and dense forests of Istria.
Our guide gave us a wonderful introduction to the world of truffles. He not only imparted in-depth knowledge about these precious mushrooms, but also skillfully combined this with the rich history of Istria. The tour was therefore very varied and captivated us from start to finish.
Special praise goes to the truffle hunter, who immediately won us over with his friendly and warm personality. You could feel his passion for his work and it was impressive to watch him and his dog hunting for truffles.
The undisputed highlight, however, was the tasting. The truffles were served in various dishes and every bite was a delight. The whole experience was only surpassed by the incredible hospitality. We felt welcome and completely at ease from the first to the last minute.
We can highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves nature, good food and authentic experiences. It was an experience that we will definitely not forget in a hurry.
Reviews
5.0
based on 45 reviews
Lucy_B, Oct 2025
My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon learning about truffles and then tasting the delicious food prepared for us. The truffle hunting experience itself was quite brief (as the truffles are planted as a training/demonstration exercise). The food was plentiful and delicious. Would highly recommend.
Graciane_B, Sep 2025
We had such an incredible experience on this truffle hunting and cooking tour! Jerneja went absolutely above and beyond from the very start, even waiting for us at the bus stop and giving us a tour of the area while sharing stories and background about Slovenian Istria.
She introduced us to Valdi, a passionate truffle hunter, and his sweet Labrador/Golden Retriever mix, Bistra. Jerneja explained the rigorous training Bistra went through, along with many fascinating facts about truffles. Despite the rainy weather, Bistra managed to find three truffles during our 45-minute hunt, which was so exciting to watch!
Afterwards, we went back to Jerneja’s home for the cooking portion of the tour. She guided us step by step in preparing a delicious fuži pasta dish with the fresh truffles we had just collected. She also shared excellent tips on how to recognize real and fresh truffles when dining at restaurants—very useful advice! The meal was served with wine, juice, and tasty little bites, making it feel so warm and authentic.
LISA_F, Sep 2025
What an unforgettable experience! Our guided truffle hunt was the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and cuisine. From the moment we set out into the forest with our guide and his incredible truffle-hunting dog, we were completely immersed in the magic of the hunt. Watching the dog skillfully uncover these culinary treasures felt like witnessing a centuries-old tradition come to life.
The highlight, of course, was enjoying the fruits of our labor. We were warmly welcomed into a beautiful home in Gazon village where we learned how to prepare fresh pasta, and then sat down to a meal featuring the very truffles we had found. Every bite—from the pasta to the cheeses, meats, and truffle-infused specialties—was an explosion of authentic local flavor.
This wasn’t just a tour; it was an experience that connected us to the land, the people, and the tradition of truffle hunting in the most personal way. If you’re looking for something truly unique and memorable, this is an absolute must-do. Thank you Jerneja
Patrick_S, Sep 2025
Our truffle hunting tour was an absolute highlight. It was not just a simple search, but a fascinating and very educational journey of discovery through the picturesque places and dense forests of Istria.
Our guide gave us a wonderful introduction to the world of truffles. He not only imparted in-depth knowledge about these precious mushrooms, but also skillfully combined this with the rich history of Istria. The tour was therefore very varied and captivated us from start to finish.
Special praise goes to the truffle hunter, who immediately won us over with his friendly and warm personality. You could feel his passion for his work and it was impressive to watch him and his dog hunting for truffles.
The undisputed highlight, however, was the tasting. The truffles were served in various dishes and every bite was a delight. The whole experience was only surpassed by the incredible hospitality. We felt welcome and completely at ease from the first to the last minute.
We can highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves nature, good food and authentic experiences. It was an experience that we will definitely not forget in a hurry.
Rick_S, Sep 2025
Our guide had a world of knowledge about truffles and other subjects
She taught us how to prepare meals with truffles and served a great lunch of pasta with truffles
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Dear Rick, thank you for having you and your brother-in-law as my guests. I really enjoyed it. I hope everything is OK with your friend's hand and that he doesn't forget to "keep your hands up". Jerneja
Mary_S, Aug 2025
We were very lucky to have a private experience. The truffle hunter and dog were amazing and the host translated everything he said. The hunting was wonderful to watch and the dog was able to find 3 truffles. After the hunt the host invited us to her beautiful home, where she prepared a lovely meal for us with small plates of cheese, meat and vegetables from her garden. We sat on her outside terrace which was pleasant and inviting. She then cooked a delicious pasta and truffle dish for us to enjoy. Her knowledge of truffles was impressive and we learned so much from her. We highly recommend this tour.
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Dear Mary, thank you for your visit. It was a pleasure to meet you and your beautiful family. Warm greetings to all of you, Jerneja
Zabin_R, Jul 2025
This was a very unique and incredible experience. The intimate group and the knowledgeable guide was fabulous. The first part of this tour does require a moderate fitness ability but the forest walk and truffle hunting was very cool. However the delicious meal that followed was an absolute not to miss experience. Absolutely delicious and very lovely day.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Thanks Zabin, it was great to have you here. I hope you and your friend enjoyed the rest of the cruise as well. Jerneja
AchimSimon_B, Jul 2025
It was a wonderful and impressive experience with our very charming host Jerneja, a highly experienced truffle hunter, and his hardworking dog. A must for anyone who loves Slovenian culture—we'll definitely be back.
Response from Host, Jul 2025
Dear Achim, it was nice to be in your company. And thank you for the surprise with the card. And don't forget that you promised to get in touch when you return to Slovenia. BR Jerneja
Gregory_M, May 2025
Pretty much have to back up what other reviewers have said previously. Very fun experience going out with the truffle hunter and dog to get a sense of what truffle hunting is like, and would have loved to spend even more time in nature! Jerneja was an awesome hostess who really dug deep into all aspects of truffle hunting in Istria, and gave us great tips for discerning properly prepared truffle dishes in the future. Getting to sit with her over wine and the truffle pasta dish was fantastic! Such a warm and welcoming experience, like chatting with an old friend.
Absolutely unique experience getting to learn more about the history of truffle hunting and great tips for discerning
Response from Host, May 2025
Dear Gregory, thank you for your kind review and thank you to your wife for the photos. It's nice to share knowledge with people who accept and appreciate it. Thank you for the beautiful moments I was able to share with you. Jerneja
Jeanette_L, May 2025
As a traveler who doesn't read or know the area, make sure to google pin the start location as the gazon bus stop. Otherwise. Google will send you to the next town over. The truffle hunt was great but I would to participate in a longer hunt. The hunter and dog was great! Our hostess was excellent on her knowledge of truffles. She cooked us a pasta meal with truffles the Istrian way and it was amazing! We did the tour in English. Bought some amazing local products as well. All around great time. If you love truffles, definitely try a truffle hunt.
Response from Host, May 2025
Dear Jeanett and Mr. L., thank you for being my guests and making my day. Thank you also for the warning about the location, but sometimes it's hard to explain some things to Mr. Google :). I know, the problem is that Google writes the meeting place "Gažon, Šmarje" and once a year it happens that guests go to the neighboring village of Šmarje on another hill and look for the "street" Gažon there (Šmarje is a neighboring village, but the name also indicates the area in which the village of Gažon is located, like a postal code. Unfortunately, we can't influence this. But I will enter an additional warning in the description of the experience). I hope (of course, I'm also sorry if this happened to you) that you were those guests "whose this happens once a year" and made a quota for this year :). I hope you arrived safely in Pula and enjoyed yourself there too. Jerneja
Howard_G, May 2025
This tour was one of the best experiences in Europe. From the truffle hunter and dog to our very knowledgeable and great cook tour guide, we couldn’t have asked for a better day. If you’re looking for a special day, don’t miss this tour!!
Response from Host, May 2025
Dear Howard, thank you for your kind review. You were great company, especially the youngest guest. Maybe next time your daughter-in-law will dare to try truffles and even love them. Greetings to Florida to all of you, and greetings to your friend who may be interested in bringing her guests. Jerneja
Roberto_V, Apr 2025
Wonderful and unique experience. Both the host and the hunter were amazing. Must do if you visit slovenia.
Response from Host, Apr 2025
Dear Roberto
thank you for your kind review. I am glad that you were my first guests this year and that you brought a pleasant mood. I hope you enjoyed your vacation in Slovenia, and a special "compliment" to you for choosing the destination. Jerneja
Andrea_C, Oct 2024
So much fun and the lunch was delicious!! Loved both our guide and hunter. Couldn't ask for a better experience!
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Dear Andrea, Thank you for your review. I remember all three of you "girls" very well. The experience with you was also something special for me. I hope you got the 10-10-100 recipe and made great truffles at home.
Warm greetings to all three of you, Jerneja
PS: the hunter got the lost €1 ;)
Becky_R, Oct 2024
This was the experience of a lifetime! The information about truffles, experiencing how they're found, using them to cook in our own pasta and the history regarding Istria was all perfect. We enjoyed this with friends and will remember it forever. Don't think twice about doing this. The hosts are so kind and informative. We were on a cruise that stopped in Koper. This experience fit perfectly within the time we had allotted. There is a small city bus that makes trips there and back. A taxi will take you to Gazon if you have trouble finding the bus stop.
Response from Host, Oct 2024
Dear Becky, Thank you for your kind review. I hope your cruise was successful. Even Kiki, who joined you on the experience, got in touch and sent a photo - she tried my recommendation for steak with truffles and said it's great. Try it, you won't regret it.
Greetings from Istria, Jerneja
Laura_G, Sep 2024
We had a great experience in a very special atmosphere. From the truffle hunt, to preparing the excellent pasta together, to all the things we learned about truffles. Thank you very much, Jerneja, for inviting is to your home and sharing these great moments with us.
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Dear Laura,
thank you for your kind review. I hope you will pass on the 10-10-100 recipe to your friend, the restaurant's owner, and share our "little secrets" about truffles with her. Jerneja
Trevor_S, Aug 2024
We had an awesome time truffle hunting in Istria! Highly recommend and thanks to Jerneja for everything!
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Hi Trevor, Thanks for your review and photo. I hope the whole group agrees with the review 😊 And thanks to your colleague for helping with the light. I hope that at some point you will prepare truffles yourself at home according to the recipe you saw. I hope you have a nice rest in Slovenia. Jerneja
Mary_G, Jul 2024
This was such a memorable and special evening. Jerneja has curated an incredible experience that left us with a deep understanding of truffles and wanting more! A must book if you are looking in the area
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Dear Mary. You were great company, thank you for being with me. I hope you cook good pasta with truffles, now you have the recipe :)
Jerneja
ahawkett, Jul 2024
Chatting and learning about truffles and life in general with the lovely host. Trying out the produce .
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Dear Alison,
thank you for your review. I hope you both relaxed before your early departure home and got over the situation at home. Be well, I hope you come back soon. Jerneja
Paul_M, Jan 2024
Our truffle-hunting experience in Istria was an absolute delight! ⚜️ From the moment I booked with Viator to the expertly guided tour (and I do really mean expert), everything was seamless. Our knowledgeable guide made the truffle hunt an exhilarating and educational experience. The cooking and tasting session that followed were culinary magic (you even get to help in preperation); I've never tasted truffles so fresh and flavorful! The local insights, warm hospitality, and picturesque surroundings made this journey an unforgettable 5-star adventure. A must-do for anyone seeking an immersive and delicious Istrian experience! 🍽️🍷
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Dear Paul,
Thank you so much for your compliment, I'm blushing a little when I read it. It's a good feeling, and above all, it's a payment for our effort. We try to offer everyone the best we have at home at that moment and get even more from you - guests, my friends. Jerneja from IstraTerra
Fayne_S, Nov 2023
The host was the best. We spent such a pleasant day with her. She cooked us a delightful meal and we learned so much about truffles from her, the hunter, and the well behaved dog. Truly magical!
Response from Host, Aug 2024
Dear Fayne, It was very nice to meet you. Thanks for the kind recommendation. Greetings to your friend as well, and don't forget: "Smart people are not just those who master numbers and technology." BR, Jerneja
Bryan_H, Oct 2023
Everything about this tour was exceptional. Do not hesitate to book! The host is super friendly and opens up her beautiful home in the village of Gažon, which is complete with a pergola and fresh herbs/fruits/vegetables from her garden. The truffle hunting experience was fun and educational. The fresh truffle pasta was delicious and the simple recipe will certainly be one to add to your repertoire (if you can find fresh truffles that is). If you are coming from a cruise ship or are planning to take a taxi from one of the coastal cities make arrangements with your taxi driver to pick you back up in the village. We recommend Ilija with City Taxi. 10/10 book with confidence!
Response from Host, Nov 2023
Dear Bryan,
Thank you for your kind review, and above all, that we had the opportunity to get to know each other. You two were very pleasant guests, I hope that the seeds of my tomatoes will take hold in your garden and preserve the memory of our meeting.
I will forward your compliment to Ilija, I believe he will be happy.
BR Jerneja
Laura_B, Aug 2023
We had a great time hunting for truffles in Istria. Highly recommend to all sorts of groups looking for a unique, authentic experience
Response from Host, Sep 2023
Dear Laura, thank you for your kind review. Jerneja
Lisa_R, Dec 2022
The most enchanting experience!!! Ms. Jerneja is very knowledgable in truffles and greeted us from the start of the adventure. She provided our family expert knowledge as we walked into the forest, from there we met the Truffle Hunter and his dog. We found black truffles on our tour of the forest, watching the dog smell and dig was very exciting. After the forest, we were welcomed in her home and she gave us a array of truffle tasting, white/black truffle pate and local wine. After we had a delicious black truffle creamy pasta dinner from the truffles we foraged in the forest. The experience is highly recommended, and we loved everything!!! Great Job!
Ms. Jerneja is the best!!!
Response from Host, Dec 2022
Dear Lisa, thank you for your kind review. Hunter and I also enjoyed your company. Maybe we'll see each other again if you ever come back to Istria or I come to Sp.......rgo. Greetings to you and the little princesses, Jerneja
Caleb_H, Jul 2022
So, so incredible. My partner and I had the most amazing time getting to go truffle hunting. Beautiful scenery, extremely kind and knowledgeable hosts, and a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic experience. Absolutely one of the highlights of our month-long trip.
Response from Host, Jul 2022
Dear Caleb, Thank you very much for your kind review. My family also had a good time in your company. When we share our home with a guest, we are also happy to listen to your experiences. BR Jerneja
Elizabeth_D, May 2022
We had such a wonderful time! Expert truffle hunter, who taught us all about hunting. We found 3 truffles and came back from the forest for a wonderful pasta dinner and learned how to create this wonderful dish at home. I can’t say enough great things about this experience. Don’t miss out!
Response from Host, Jul 2022
Dear Elizabeth! Thank you for your kind review. I will be happy to pass it on to hunter Matija. I'm glad we met. I hope you have happily arrived in Budapest.
Best regards to your friend ... and your sister 🤗
Ute_F, Oct 2020
Sara was a great host and gave us a deep insight to the world of truffles. How to hunt, how to educate the dogs, to define the category and quality, etc.
Afterwards she prepared a delicious dinner with truffles and let us learn that the easiest recipies are the best. We could highly recommend this tour!
Carley A, Jun 2019
We had SUCH a good time with Sara and Liza hunting for truffles and learning all about their life in Slovenia! When people ask us what the best part of our honeymoon was, we always say our day in Slovenia! If you are considering booking, just do it! You will not be disappointed. After we watched Liza sniff out the truffles and learned all about how they hunt etc., Sara prepared a pasta dish with the truffles as well as delicious Slovenian wine and appetizers. I just can't say enough nice things about this tour!!!
Response from Host, Jun 2019
Dear Carley! It was really nice to meet you both. Once again, congratulations on the wedding and I wish you all the best. I hope that you come back soon to show your children where you were on a wedding trip.
MHM_N, Sep 2024
We hadden vooraf een iets andere voorstelling naar uiteindelijk was het zeker de moeite waard!
Jerneja heeft met veel passie verteld over de truffel tijdens de wandeling naar het stukje bos waar we de 'hunter' en zijn hond zouden ontmoeten. We waren samen met nog een Deens stel. Daar aangekomen werd Jano aangemoedigd om truffels te gaan zoeken. We hebben er 4 gevonden waarvan 1 een echte spontane vondst. Alle anderen zijn een paar dagen eerder verstopt. Het is van belang dat Jano goed getraind blijft en daarom regelmatig op zoek moet. Jerneja heeft na deze hunting ons meegenomen naar haar huis. Daar heeft ze ons in de watten gelegd met heerlijke hapjes, verse eigengemaakte ranja en heerlijk wijn uit de streek. Tevens heeft ze ons geleerd hoe je een pasta met truffel moet bereiden. Er gingen er 4 in!! En ohhhh wat was dit lekker!!! Een smaak om nooit te vergeten. Maar ook de gastvrijheid en vriendelijkheid van Jerneja zullen we niet vergeten. We zijn haar en de 'truffelhunter' met Jano zeer dankbaar voor deze leuke, lekkere en leerzame ochtend!
Response from Host, Sep 2024
Dear M. and P.
thank you for your review. Guests like you are the reason why I love my job - it brings wonderful people into my life. Thank you for being my guest. With love, Jerneja
Ans_v, Oct 2023
Gastvrije ontvangst, goede uitleg, hartelijkheid en het gezamenlijke koken en eten, dat maakt het zo compleet! We kregen zelfs nog een lift naar Koper. Kortom, geweldig en zeker een aanrader!
Response from Host, Nov 2023
Dear Ans,
thank you for your kind review. I'm glad everything worked out happily, despite your arrival complications. I hope you and your friend enjoyed the rest of your vacation, including the trip to Pula.
BR Jerneja
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