Truffles are Istrian treasure, hidden under the ground in the dense forests of the Mirna River Valley. Truffle hunters find it, helped by specially trained truffle dogs. It is an inspiration of many gourmet experiences and fits perfectly in with all dishes – salads, pasta, meat and even desserts. The fragrance of truffles proudly spreads also from Buzet, the town of truffles which, in autumn, organises numerous events in honour of truffles. This is a particular time when you can taste typical Istrian dishes with truffles, but also have a go at hunting for them.
Buzet was proclaimed the City of Truffles in 1999.
The white and the black truffles have their natural habitat in the Istrian truffle 'Bermuda' triangle between Pazin, Buje and Buzet, especially in the valley of the river Mirna and in the Motovun Forest. They grow underground, and they are searched after by specially trained dogs.
October is the top season of the white truffles, which are also the most expensive and the most valuable truffles. At that time, numerous events are held every weekend to celebrate this indisputable king of mushrooms in Livade, the well-known truffles centre near Motovun. But, even before and after this period, throughout most of the autumn, Istria lives in the rhythm of truffles with the abundance of festivities dedicated to this noble mushroom.
The guests that come from the whole region are presented with the typical truffle dishes: fuži, pljukanci, gnocchi, fritada and various meat combinations. There are also many exhibitions and fairs, with plenty of excellent opportunities to meet the world of this magic, aromatic tuber known for its aphrodisiac features.