Truffle Hunt and Truffle Pizza Experience in Red Hill

If you’re a foodie who loves discovering new flavors and enjoying authentic, hands-on experiences, the Truffle Hunt and Truffle Pizza Experience in Red Hill might just be a highlight of your trip to Australia’s Mornington Peninsula. This tour promises a delightful combination of nature, culinary adventure, and a good dose of local charm— all for around $135.56 per person. While it’s not a long day out, it packs in enough to leave you with plenty of tasty memories and some new appreciation for the mysterious world of truffles.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the expert-led truffle hunting with talented dogs—which makes it both fun and educational—and the chance to enjoy a handmade pizza topped with freshly shaved truffles. It’s a real treat for food lovers who want more than just a tasting session. On the other hand, one possible consideration is that the tour’s physical demands might not suit travelers with mobility issues, since you’ll be walking through the truffière. This experience is best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy outdoor activity and good food in equal measure.

Overall, if you’re curious about truffles, love fresh local ingredients, and want a memorable, interactive experience, this tour offers excellent value and a chance to dive into the culinary world in a relaxed, scenic setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Truffle Hunting: Led by expert guides with skilled dogs, providing an engaging, hands-on experience.
• Gourmet Pizza: Enjoy shaving your freshly harvested truffles onto a delicious wood-fired pizza.
• Family-Owned Farm: Visit the first and largest truffle farm on the Mornington Peninsula, operating for over 20 years.
• Educational Content: Learn about the fascinating story, myths, and varieties of truffles.
• Local Tasting: Sample various truffle products in a tasting session that adds depth to your culinary knowledge.
• Small Group: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personal and intimate atmosphere.

The tour begins at the charming 235 Arthurs Seat Rd, where you’ll meet your guides at 10:30 am. From there, the journey into the world of truffles unfolds over approximately three hours. While that might seem brief, the experience is dense with learning, foraging, and tasting—making it a worthwhile afternoon outing.

Visit to the Historic Truffle Farm

We loved the way the experience starts with a visit to the first and largest truffle farm on the Mornington Peninsula, a family-owned operation that’s been around for over 20 years. Walking through the property, you get a real sense of tradition and passion that’s been passed down through generations. The farm’s landscape offers a peaceful backdrop, perfect for photo opportunities and soaking in the rural atmosphere.

The guides share stories about the farm’s history, how truffles are cultivated, and the different types you might find. They also dispel some myths, giving you a clearer picture of what it takes to grow these elusive fungi. It’s a great primer for those new to truffles, transforming what might seem a mystical ingredient into something tangible and fascinating.

The Art of Truffle Hunting with Dogs

The highlight for many is the hands-on foraging with trained truffle dogs. These clever creatures are specially trained to sniff out truffles underground, making the hunt both effective and entertaining. You’ll get the chance to walk through the truffière, guided by experts who help you unearth the hidden treasures.

The guides are knowledgeable and patient, explaining the life cycle of truffles, their unique aroma, and the varieties you might encounter. One review noted they “loved the way the guides help you unearth the truffles with your own hands,” which adds a tangible sense of achievement.

Walking through the farm, you’ll appreciate how the dogs skillfully locate the truffles beneath the soil—an impressive display of training and natural ability. It’s a lively, interactive process that keeps everyone engaged, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler.

From Harvest to Table: Shaving and Tasting

After the excitement of the hunt, it’s time for the culinary part. You’ll return to a designated area where freshly harvested truffles are shaved onto a wood-fired pizza. This is the moment many look forward to—a simple, rustic pizza topped with the prized fungi you just helped find. The guides will show you how to shave the truffles, adding an authentic touch to the experience.

Alongside the pizza, you’ll sample other truffle products—likely including oils, salts, or tapenades—allowing you to appreciate the depth of flavors that truffles can bring to various dishes. The chance to taste freshly shaved truffles on your own pizza is a highlight, providing a sensory connection that elevates the entire experience.

What the Reviews Reveal

While the tour is relatively new with no reviews yet, the description suggests it will appeal most to foodies and those interested in local agriculture. The small group size (max 20) promises a personal touch and ample interaction with guides. The knowledgeable guides are expected to make the experience both educational and fun.

Travelers will also appreciate the scenic setting and the chance to enjoy a stunning rural landscape while learning about a unique culinary ingredient. The tour’s price reflects a value for the combination of hands-on activity, expert insight, and gourmet tasting—though it’s worth noting that the physical activity involved makes it less suited for anyone with mobility concerns.

Practical Details: Timing, Cost, and More

Starting at 10:30 am, the 3-hour tour offers a relaxed pace suited to most travelers. The fee of $135.56 per person covers the guided hunt, the pizza-making, and the tasting. Considering the personalized nature of the experience and the quality of interaction, many would find this to be good value—especially when considering the educational and culinary aspects bundled into one outing.

The tour is operated by Red Hill Truffles, a reputable local supplier, and confirmation is sent upon booking. Because the tour relies on good weather, it’s wise to check the forecast before booking; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.

This tour is perfect for food lovers, curious about truffles, and those who enjoy outdoor activities. Travelers interested in local farming and traditional methods will find this especially rewarding. It’s also well-suited for small groups or families looking for a memorable, interactive activity. Keep in mind the physical component—comfortable shoes and moderate fitness are recommended.

If you’re visiting the Mornington Peninsula and want to combine natural beauty with culinary discovery, this experience offers a charming, authentic glimpse into Australia’s truffle world.

The Sum Up

The Truffle Hunt and Truffle Pizza Experience in Red Hill offers a rare chance to get your hands dirty, learn about a mysterious delicacy, and enjoy a delicious, freshly made pizza topped with your own truffles. It’s a well-balanced combination of education, outdoor activity, and gastronomy—all set against the scenic backdrop of a family-owned farm.

For those who love interactive food adventures, this tour provides excellent value and a genuinely local experience. It’s best suited for curious travelers who appreciate authenticity and enjoy engaging directly with the ingredients they’re passionate about. The expert guides, stunning views, and tasty rewards make it a memorable outing worth considering when exploring the Mornington Peninsula.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is great for food-loving families, children should have moderate physical fitness since it involves walking and outdoor activity.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the guided truffle hunt, the opportunity to harvest your own truffles, the pizza-making with shaved truffles, and a tasting of various truffle products.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, starting at 10:30 am.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially since the tour is limited to 20 travelers.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, good weather is required. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes are advised, especially since you’ll be walking through the truffière.

Is the experience accessible for those with mobility issues?
The physical requirements suggest it’s best suited for travelers with moderate fitness; those with mobility concerns might find it challenging.

This tour combines the charm of a family-owned farm with the thrill of discovering and cooking with one of nature’s most coveted ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, it promises an engaging, flavorful day in the scenic surrounds of Red Hill.