One of the coolest experiences you can partake in while in Italy is going truffle hunting with dogs in Alba. Yes, you read that correctly; Italian dogs lead the way for you to find precious truffles. There are many factors that go into enhancing your experience, including but not limited to what time of year to truffle hunt, understanding what the dogs actually do, and dressing comfortably. If seeking fresh truffles in Italian soil (with the help of some dogs) has been on your bucket list, even if you only have one day in Alba, read on to know what to expect.
Pro-Tip: For any assistance with a truffle hunting venture in Alba, Langhe Experience can help you arrange everything from start to finish (like they did for me!).
How does it work?
Truffles are one of the most iconic foods of Italy’s Piedmont region. When it comes to truffle hunting in Alba, let the dogs lead the way. The dogs are trained to sniff out the aromas of truffles. I went with a dog named Book, and according to my guide, aka Book’s trusted owner, Book had been trained since he was a young pup to sniff out truffles. How is that? Well, he had freshly shaved truffles on his food as a young dog, getting him acquired to the scent. This is common for Piedmontese dogs.
Now, when Book, or any other Piedmontese pup, guides folks like you and me on our truffle quest, when they sniff a truffle in the forest, they immediately begin digging. It’s an incredible experience to both witness and be a part of (and reminds us all that dogs are indeed much greater than humans). After your pup finds your truffles, your human guide will explain to you how to determine if it’s a good one or not. For example, if there are holes in the truffle, it means bugs have been eating it, and therefore, it’s no longer good.
Is there a difference in the type of truffle I find?
Yes! There’s a huge difference. The two most common truffles to find in Alba are black truffles and white truffles. Black truffles, or tartufo nero (singular) or tartufi neri (plural) are the most common, as they can be found year-round. Black truffles are usually found just a little under the surface of the dirt.
White truffles, or tartufo bianco (singular) or tartufi bianci (plural) are much more rare, and therefore, much more expensive should you ever see them for sale. White truffles are really only found in October, November, and December. But far beyond that, they are often found further beneath the surface, meaning, much more digging for the dog. Don’t worry–you’ll know when you find a white truffle, because the aroma is pungent! If you see white truffles for sale in the summer or even the spring, know that you’re not getting the real deal as white truffles are not in season during these times.
When is the best time to go truffle hunting?
The best time to go truffle hunting, specifically for the coveted white truffle, is October, November, and December. So much so, that there’s even an annual White Truffle Fest from October to December. However, you can technically truffle hunt almost all year, though May into summertime is not recommended. For the best results, try fall and winter.
How long does a truffle hunting excursion last?
This entirely depends on the tour you take! Mine lasted a little under two hours, but if you opt for an experience that has dinner or a wine tasting included, it can last much longer. If you book a private tour, like this one, your guide can be flexible and tailor everything to your liking. Patience is key as you search for your beloved truffles!
What to wear
This also entirely depends on when you visit. I was fortunate to get a very sunny day in mid-September, however, it’s still technically a “hike,” so heels and a dress aren’t exactly recommended. Alba can get quite chilly in the fall and winter months, so layering up is not a bad idea. I’d also go for a comfortable set of shoes.
Fashion-tip: The main things to consider are a good pair of shoes, like these (you don’t necessarily need a set of hiking boots, but comfortable sneakers are recommended). Plus, a light, stylish raincoat is not a bad idea, regardless of what time of year you go.
How strenuous is a truffle hunting hike?
While you are outside and you will be required to walk, this isn’t a strenuous activity by any means. Just be prepared to walk for a few hours through the woods, and you’ll be fine.
Will I get to eat the truffles?
This also depends on the type of tour you book. For example, with my tour with Langhe Experience, I was able to take two truffles home with me. Many tours include a dinner or lunch where you get to enjoy the truffles you found, but regardless, I would not recommend booking a tour where you do NOT get to try your well-earned truffles.
How to Book a Truffle Hunting Tour
This is an experience you need to make arrangements for, so here are some options:
- Do as I did, and arrange your truffle excursion through Langhe Experience.
- Book a truffle hunting tour on GetYourGuide here.
- This truffle tour includes cheese and wine tastings.
- Book a sunset truffle hunting tour here.
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