You either love them or hate them: truffles. While some can hardly stand the taste, others are happy about every dish that is refined with the underground growing tuber. In the past, mushrooms were mainly used in rural cuisine, but today the expensive edible mushrooms are mainly used in haute cuisine. At least the real ones, because a kilogram of white truffle can cost up to 9,000 euros. From some auctions one knows that gourmets are ready to offer enormous sums for the mushroom. In 2006, for example, a buyer in Hong Kong bought three truffles weighing a total of 1.5 kilograms at a price of 125,000 euros. Those who would like to hunt for themselves can now do so at the Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel in Florence. The luxury hotel has recently started offering a private Truffle Hunting Experience with the hotel's own Truffle Concierge. And this is led by none other than Giulio the Truffle Hunter.

A day with Giulio, Maga and Scott

Giulio is one of the best truffle hunters in Italy. Celebrities from all over the world come to learn the secrets of truffle hunting from the master. Guests of the Rocco Forte Hotel Savoy can now book a private truffle hunt with Giulio throughout the year. The Tuscan tradition begins with a 25-minute drive from the hotel to the idyllic countryside of Bagno a Ripoli. From Giulio's private estate, you will head into the woods. Always in the company of the two dogs Maga and Scott. They are the ones who locate the buried treasures with their fine noses. Unlike in the past, pigs are no longer used to search for truffles. These cause too much destruction and are among the biggest fans of the mushrooms themselves. Unlike dogs, they are reluctant to let their finds be taken away. 

After a successful hunt, the truffle concierge invites the guests to his private home. There he prepares an exquisite truffle-based dinner. Giulio serves excellent Tuscan wine to go with it. A star on the truffle scene, Giulio not only knows many wonderful stories and lots of trivia to share. He is also a charming and entertaining host. A talented storyteller, he makes for an unforgettable day. This unique experience can be booked throughout the year subject to availability and is also suitable for children. Reservations are required at least 48 hours in advance.

Hotel Savoy, a Rocco Forte Hotel
Piazza della Repubblica, 7, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy
Tel.: +39 055 27351
roccofortehotels.com