Italy is a feast for the senses, but few experiences come close to the sheer joy of a truffle hunt in the rolling Tuscan countryside. Tucked between the Ligurian coast and the Apennine mountains is Lunigiana, a little-known gem in northern Tuscany where life moves at a gentler pace and age-old traditions remain alive and well.
In the medieval town of Pontremoli, visitors can join Emilia Delizia for an authentic truffle-hunting adventure with local experts and their loyal dogs.
Discovering Lunigiana: Tuscany Beyond the Guidebooks
While most visitors make a beeline for Florence, Siena or the Chianti hills, Lunigiana remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. With its dense woodlands, Romanesque churches, and dramatic hilltop castles, this region is a haven for those in search of a more authentic Italian experience. It is here that black and white truffles grow abundantly in the oak and hazelnut forests and the centuries-old tradition of truffle hunting is still practised with pride.
Suggested Itinerary: Modena, Parma, Via Francigena to La Spezia
For travellers looking to explore more of Italy beyond the over touristed hotspots, consider this slow-travel route rich in food, culture, and natural beauty:
- Modena – Begin your journey in Modena, home of traditional balsamic vinegar, fast cars, and world-renowned cuisine. Take part in a Foodie’s Delight tour with Emilia Delizia to visit Parmesan cheese dairies to taste aged Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese, balsamic vinegar producers, and prosciutto makers. Here you will also find one of the Italy and world’s best restaurants, Osteria Francescana by Massimo Bottura.
- Parma – Next, head to Parma, a city of music, architecture, and rich gastronomy. Visit the Parma Cathedral, sample local Parma ham, and enjoy elegant trattorias.
- Pontremoli (Via Francigena stop) – From Parma, follow part of the ancient Via Francigena pilgrimage route through the Apennines to Pontremoli. Here, enjoy a one-of-a-kind truffle hunting experience with Emilia Delizia. The town is rich in history, medieval bridges, and traditional cuisine.
- La Spezia & Cinque Terre – End your trip in La Spezia, gateway to the iconic Cinque Terre. Stroll through the port town, visit its museums and markets, or hop on a train to explore the colourful cliffside villages just minutes away.
This route weaves together culture, cuisine, and countryside, a perfect introduction to the lesser-known jewels of northern Italy.
What to Expect from a Truffle Hunt with Emilia Delizia
The experience begins with a scenic drive through Lunigiana’s countryside to reach a small, family-run truffle estate. Guests are greeted by a local trifolao (truffle hunter) and their dog, often a Lagotto Romagnolo, a breed renowned for its truffle-hunting skills.
The truffle hunt takes you into the woods, where you’ll witness the incredible bond between human and dog as they search for truffles buried beneath the forest floor. This is not a fake truffle hunt put on just for tourists, it’s the real deal. Every hunt is genuine, and while nature offers no guarantees, the thrill of the search is part of the charm.
After the hunt, guests return to the farmhouse for a well-earned reward: a generous tasting of truffle-infused delicacies. There will be fresh pasta with shaved truffle, truffle cheese, local salumi, and perhaps a glass of wine or two. It’s a slow, indulgent meal that encapsulates the essence of Italian hospitality.
Why Truffle Hunting Is More Than a Culinary Trend
Truffle hunting is more than just a gourmet outing. It’s a window into rural Italian life. It’s about preserving biodiversity, respecting the land, and passing down skills through generations. In Pontremoli, the tradition is deeply embedded in the culture. The town even hosts an annual truffle festival each autumn, celebrating the harvest and showcasing the best local products.
For visitors, it’s a rare opportunity to engage with this living heritage. The tour is suitable for couples, families, or small groups and no prior knowledge of truffles is required. Just bring curiosity, sturdy shoes, and a good appetite.
How to Get There and Plan Your Visit
Pontremoli is easily accessible from La Spezia, Parma, or even Florence. Many travellers visiting the Cinque Terre or northern Tuscany find it a worthwhile detour. The tour takes about three to four hours, including the hunt and the tasting, and can be arranged in the morning or afternoon.
A Note on Sustainable Tourism
In recent years, there has been growing interest in slow travel and sustainable tourism, and experiences like these are at the forefront of that movement. By joining in an authentic truffle hunt, guests directly support local economies and help preserve age-old traditions. It’s an immersive and delicious way to explore Italy, a must for gastronomy travellers.
Learn More About Lunigiana
To deepen your appreciation of this unique region, check out the Val di Magra and Lunigiana guide on Visit Tuscany. You’ll find recommendations on what else to see and do nearby, from castle tours to river walks and traditional food festivals.
A Must-Do for Food Lovers and Curious Gourmet Travellers
If you’re looking for an unforgettable food experience in Italy, look no further than a truffle hunt in Pontremoli. With Emilia Delizia as your guide, you’ll get more than a taste of truffles, you’ll get an insight into this beautiful, lesser-known region of Italy and its deep culinary roots.
Whether you’re an intrepid traveller, a gourmet on the hunt for the next food adventure or simply someone who appreciates good food and nature, this is an experience that delivers on all fronts.
Note: This post was written in collaboration with Emilia Delizia
