ROME: Truffle Hunting and Lunch with Truffle Dishes

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Italy’s countryside beyond the usual tourist spots, a truffle hunting experience near Rome might just be your perfect match. This tour, offered by Discovering Truffles, combines the thrill of watching trained dogs hunt for truffles in the woods with the pleasure of savoring delicious dishes made with fresh truffles. It’s a full six-hour journey that blends nature, culinary delight, and a bit of canine charm.

What immediately appeals to us about this experience is how deeply it connects you with the land and tradition—plus, the chance to learn about truffle varieties and how to taste them. We also appreciate the inclusion of a vegetarian, celiac, and vegan-friendly menu, making it accessible for many dietary needs. On the flip side, one consideration might be the physical aspect, as it involves walking in natural terrain in the countryside, so comfort and suitable footwear are key.

This experience is ideal for food lovers, curious travelers, or anyone eager to understand the world of truffles firsthand. If you enjoy outdoor adventures combined with good food and a touch of authenticity, this tour is a smart choice. Now, let’s explore what makes this experience stand out and how it all unfolds.

• Authentic truffle hunting with trained dogs in the Italian countryside
• Learn about different types of truffles and how to taste them
• Enjoy a gourmet lunch with a variety of dishes, including vegetarian, celiac, and vegan options
• Experience the natural beauty of Lazio’s forests and woods
• Meet and play with the dogs that hunt for truffles
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting Point: Cesano di Roma

Your adventure begins at the Cesano di Roma train station, where the guide will meet you in front of the exit. This consistent meeting spot keeps things simple and stress-free—no need to worry about complicated pickups or navigating unfamiliar streets. The tour group is likely small enough to keep the experience intimate, but the exact size isn’t specified, which generally adds to a more personal feel.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Truffle Hunt: A Natural Walk

The core of this tour is the truffle hunting itself. Depending on the season, you’ll head into different types of woods—each offering a unique chance to find various truffle varieties. The highlight is watching the trained dogs work their magic, demonstrating their keen noses and enthusiasm. As one reviewer, Hen, notes, “We went with Federico and the dogs to look for truffles in the forest,” emphasizing the personalized and engaging nature of the hunt.

The two-hour walk involves gentle hiking through scenic natural surroundings. Expect to be on your feet, so comfortable shoes, long pants covering your ankles, and water are recommended. The dogs are playful and eager—during the hunt, you might find yourself bonding with them or even playing alongside. It’s a fun, tactile experience that leaves many visitors feeling a genuine connection to the countryside.

What You’ll Discover

During the walk, your guide will likely share insights into the world of truffles—the different types, how they grow, and what makes the hunt so special. As Jordy mentions in his review, the experience is “such an amazing and wonderful experience,” largely thanks to the passionate guide and the dog handlers’ expertise. You’ll also gain a better understanding of how to distinguish good truffles and perhaps even how to appreciate their subtle flavors.

The Lunch: A Celebration of Truffles

After the hunt, the tour shifts to a culinary feast. Participants sit down to enjoy a spread of truffle-infused dishes, paired with a good local wine. The menu is designed to cater to various dietary needs, with options for vegetarians, celiacs, and vegans—an important detail that ensures everyone can indulge.

The lunch is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of local ingredients. You’ll savor the flavors of freshly shaved truffles, and the experience of eating dishes cooked with treasures from the woods makes the flavors more intense and memorable. As another reviewer, Hen, recounts, “We ate many good dishes cooked with the truffles we found,” highlighting the generous and authentic nature of the meal.

Additional Experiences

One unexpected delight is the chance to meet and interact with the dogs during and after the hunt. They’re not just working animals but also companions, and many visitors find this to be a highlight. Federico, the guide, is praised for his professionalism and passion, making the experience both educational and warm.

More Great Tours Nearby

Practical Details

The tour lasts around six hours, offering a well-paced experience that balances outdoor activity with culinary indulgence. Transportation to the woods is included, but you need to arrange your own way to Cesano di Roma. Proper attire—comfortable shoes, long pants, water—is essential, and sneakers are acceptable. High heels, open-toed shoes, or shorts aren’t suitable, given the natural terrain.

The tour runs in English and Italian, with a flexible booking policy—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The cost reflects the inclusion of the training dogs, truffle-filled lunch, transportation, and expert guidance, making it good value for a full day of engaging activities.

This tour offers a rare glimpse into the world of truffles—something most travelers only experience through tasting. Watching the dogs work, learning about truffle varieties, and then enjoying a meal that highlights their flavors all create a rich, authentic experience.

The reviews speak volumes—both Jordy and Hen rave about the professionalism of Federico and the quality of the experience. With stunning natural surroundings and a friendly guide, this trip is perfect for those who love outdoor adventures, good food, or simply want something memorable and different during their time near Rome.

However, keep in mind that this is a walking and outdoor activity, so if you have mobility concerns or prefer indoor experiences, this might not be suitable. Also, the seasonality means the experience varies throughout the year—so check availability and what’s in season before booking.

This experience is ideal for foodies eager to learn about the culinary side of Italy’s wild ingredients. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and want to see a different side of Lazio’s countryside. Families with older children or teenagers who enjoy animals and nature might find it especially engaging. However, those with limited mobility or who prefer indoor activities should think twice, given the natural terrain involved.

This truffle hunting and lunch experience offers a taste of Italy’s rustic charm—combining nature, culinary artistry, and the joy of animals. It’s a chance to witness a traditional craft, learn something new, and then indulge in delicious local flavors. The knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and quality food make it a compelling choice for travelers looking to deepen their connection with Italian culture in a fun and authentic way.

In essence, this tour balances educational content with entertainment—a trip that’s not just about finding truffles but about appreciating the land, the craft, and the culinary traditions that make Italy so special. Perfect for those who want a meaningful, hands-on experience that leaves both your palate and your heart full.

Is transportation to the meeting point included?
Transportation to the truffle forest is included from Cesano di Roma, but you need to get yourself to the train station as the meeting point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Are vegetarian, celiac, and vegan options available?
Absolutely. The menu caters to various dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy the meal.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes, long pants, and water are recommended. Sneakers are acceptable, but avoid high heels, open-toed shoes, and shorts.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, including the hunt and the meal.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old and may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to the terrain.

What language is the tour conducted in?
Guides operate in both English and Italian.

What makes this tour stand out?
The mix of dog-led truffle hunting, scenic natural surroundings, and a gourmet meal makes it a memorable, authentic experience for curious travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: