Truffle Hunting Experience With Lunch In San Miniato

My adult son and I did the truffle hunt with Francesca and took a cooking class with the wonderful kitchen crew. The entire day was everything we’d hoped it would be. Everyone was so knowledgeable and friendly. The villa is breathtaking. We successfully found black and white truffles and learned so much about the process. I would highly recommend it.

Excellent lunch, but unanswered questions about the truffle hunt — 2 stars We booked the “Truffle Hunting & Luxury 3-Course Lunch” experience on October 3, 2026, paying €500. The lunch was excellent, and that is why I am giving two stars rather than one. However, the truffle-hunting portion left us with significant unanswered questions. The search lasted approximately 15–20 minutes in an area that seemed very small—our estimate was around 280 square metres—with visible signs of previous digging. Raffaella told us that approximately 30 guests had participated the previous day, and we understood that more groups would follow ours. Given the small area and frequency of visits, we wondered how truffles could consistently be found there. We also found the explanation about taking truffles home confusing. We initially understood that we could not take them because the smell of the soil would attract customs attention. Later, in the kitchen, she offered to sell us what appeared to be the same truffles. Afterward, I emailed Raffaella privately, asking whether the truffles had grown naturally where the dog found them or had been placed there beforehand. I explicitly stated that I was not claiming they had been planted and gave her an opportunity to explain. As of this review, I have received no response. I cannot establish whether the hunt was staged. But for €500, we expected an authentic truffle-hunting experience and clear answers to reasonable questions. Although we thoroughly enjoyed the lunch, the brief search and unanswered email left us disappointed with the overall experience.

Was a wonderful experience out with the guide and the dog but feel that the lunch could have included more protein and not just one fried egg with shaved truffle or even some mushrooms. Lunch was a let down to be honest.

My friend and I had a private tour with Francesca and her dog Aris. It was a truly spectacular experience. The property and home are beautiful, rustic and historical. As we hunted for truffles, Francesca explained the process and we learned a lot about truffles, history and dog training. Aris did an awesome job and found four truffles! When we returned for lunch we were impressed and delighted with the multi course meal highlighting truffles used lavishly and perfectly complemented with wine. This day goes in the category of a once in a lifetime experience!

The booking was very quick, great communication via email, Francesca gave us the truffle hunting tour and it was amazing. The family then welcomed us to a really tasty lunch, great wines and really a perfect atmosphere followed by an intimate table in a beautiful hall, that gave us the opportunity to gather as a family and chat with no time pressure. We were a family if 7 adults, 1 kid and 1 baby and everything was perfect. A 10/10 experience.

We had a fabulous experience from the moment we arrived we were warmly greeted and offered a lovely coffee, we were then introduced to the very excited Ares the 1 year old pup that would lead us on out way to find truffles. Francesca the host was so informative and made the hunt so interesting. Her private land is beautiful and made even better by the fact that Ares located 3 black truffles. Once the tour was finished we returned to the house for the most simple yet delicious lunch of home-cooked food served in the family home whilst drinking delicious homemade wine. All in all a great experience and one we would definitely recommend to others.

Our truffle hunt with Francesca and her wonderful dog, Ares, was an absolutely unforgettable experience! Francesca was so knowledgeable, welcoming, and passionate about truffle hunting, and Ares was adorable and incredibly talented at finding the truffles even though he is still a puppy. We were thrilled to find real truffles during our hunt—and the best part was getting to enjoy the truffles we found with a delicious lunch afterward! Everything was fresh, authentic, and absolutely delicious. It was such a fun and educational experience, and the meal was the perfect way to finish the day. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience and would highly recommend this truffle hunt to anyone visiting Italy. Francesca and Ares made it truly special! The wine served was excellent. We also were able to try her truffle balsamic vinegar and olive oil. We were amazed how delicious it was. We were able to purchase everything we tasted and needless to say it’s a pleasure to know we are getting real authentic truffle products.

The host was friendly, very informative about the history of truffle hunting and the lunch was fantastic

This was truly one of the most special experiences we had during our stay in Italy. Francesca and Enrica have an absolutely incredible home that transports you back to the 19th century. Upon arrival, they immediately made us feel like we were a part of the family. Her hunting companion, Ares, stole our hearts and we could not have asked for a better adventure. The Collebrunacchi farm is rich with history, stories, and amore. This experience was so much more than just truffles. Afterwards, they both made us one of the most memorable and expertly crafted meals we have ever had. Truly an unforgettable experience!

We adored our time in the serene variegated Tuscan countryside. Niccolo showed a large passion and knowledge for wine, we learned much! Life would be made better by a return visit.

Niccolò gave us an absolutely brilliant tour. He is incredibly knowledgeable and made the whole experience both interesting and enjoyable. We had the best day truffle hunting and tasting wine in such a beautiful setting. Everything was very well organised, and Niccolò shared so much insight about truffles, wine, the local area, and the history of Tuscany. Thank you for such an amazing experience, it truly made our day and we would highly recommend it to anyone visiting.

Wow, what an experience! We arrived at a stunning estate in the Tuscan countryside on a wet and cold day. We were greeted by Francesca and her mother and enjoyed a hot coffee. We then proceeded to explore the grounds and hunt for truffles and we were lucky to find a few! One of her dogs, Ares, is 11 months old, and is still training, but he still managed to uncover a few truffles! It was truly fascinating to watch him. After a rainy walk, we returned to there home to prepare lunch with a cooking lesson, with both Francesca and her mother. Lunch was then served with various wines, all from the estate. The lunch was delicious. Sad to leave, as you could tell there must be many interesting stories from the estate that has been in the same family for 6 generations! Don’t think twice about booking this experience — if you will not be disappointed. Even if it is during a rainier time of the year! Thank you so much for your hospitality and letting us enjoy your home with you! We will be back!

If you are looking for something different to experience this is it. Interesting to learn how the dogs work to find the truffles and a followed up with a delicious lunch and wine pairings in an amazing farmhouse.

We had a fun experience truffle hurting with Niccolo and Francesca. We found several truffles that were later served to us with lunch and a wine tasting. Afterwards we headed to a winery in Chianti for more tasting. A fun day spent with my parents.

Francesca and her family were absolutely wonderful! I truly can’t imagine a better truffle-hunting experience. Out of all our travels in Italy, this was the unforgettable highlight. You’re welcomed into Francesca’s family home, lived in for over six generations, where you immediately feel like part of the family. Then you head out onto their beautiful land to hunt for truffles with their sweet, energetic dog (Francesca even provides boots!). After the hunt, you return to their home, where Francesca and her mother prepare a delicious homemade meal featuring the truffles you found together. 10/10 recommend!

We had a great time. The size and diversity of our group was perfect. The food and wine was excellent. Learned about the difficulty of Truffle hunting -

We had a wonderful day in the beautiful countryside. Thoroughly enjoyed our easy walk with Levanti the truffle hunter who sniffed out a beautiful truffle for our lunch. Fabulous food, wine and dogs in a stunning villa. The family are very friendly and happy for you to wander through their gardens and rooms. Fabulous way to spend a gorgeous autumn day outside Florence. Terrific guide in Niccolai who had perfect English and was highly informed about the food, wine and truffles. Everyone was welcoming and happy to have us for the day. Highly recommended adventure.

Wow! This was our favorite experience in Italy. We started with another couple (total of 6) and headed for the woods. Facinating!!! Dress to explore, this isn't Disney land! We found 3 truffles, learned a lot and proceeded to the amazing house. We did a brief winery tour and the settled in for a long, relaxing, enjoyable lunch! We all ordered wine, olive oil and basalmic to send home. This wasn't "wine tasting," this was a delicious home cooked meal made bt the matriarch of the farm! This family runs the farm gave us a true Tuscan event. Well worth every penny. Oh, for lunch, the four of us were in one dining room. The other couple had thier own dining room. Everything was perfect! We left at 5:30, and were made to feel welcome to stay longer.

Matteo was an excellent guide, Francesca and Ares taught us a lot about the truffle and the history of their farm. Definitely a great adventure!

It’s a great experience. Warm and welcoming hosts and environment. Fun to walk the grounds and look for truffles with their dog who didn’t disappoint. Lunch was delicious and a nice way to meet other people.

After the frenetic activities in Firenze, San Miniato and the truffle experience were a wonderful relief. The quiet villa and grounds were spectacular, and our guide/interpreter was quite knowledgeable. But the highlight for us was Aries (the truffle dog) and Francesca, the proprietor and truffle hunter. After finding two white truffles, we were treated to a delicious truffle meal, paired with local wines. After lunch, we were given the opportunity to purchase small truffle items like their own truffle crème and truffle infused olive oil. The entire experience was delightful and delicious. Also, of note, I was able to do the gentle walk with a three month old knee replacement. And, the town San Miniato is but a short train trip from Florence, where you are met by a taxi driver. It is worth it!!

We had such a wonderful experience with Francesca and her truffle hunting dog Ares. It was fun, educational, and then, what an amazing meal of food and wine provided by Francesca and her family. We would highly recommend this tour!

What an authentic and wonderful day with this family! We met the mother, father, and son-in-law in this warm and inviting environment for a full day of truffle hunting, lunch in thier beautiful home with the truffles we found, lots of wine tasting, great food and relaxation! Wear clothes to actually tromp through the woods and prepare to explore, relax and enjoy!!

Had the absolute best time during our truffle hunting tour! We booked the private tour, which included pick up and drop off from Florence. The added price was definitely worth it for the peace of mind. Plus we got more time to chat with our incredible guide, Niccolo! He was incredibly knowledgeable about the local area, local history, and wine. Our entire group of friends were so impressed by Francesca! She is a true professional truffle hunter and watching her work with Levante (our spirited and high achieving canine companion) was fascinating. We were so lucky to have found truffles despite bad weather conditions. Even if we didn’t find anything, our group enjoyed the short hike and following Levante’s nose. The lunch and wine tasting were delicious! We learned so much and the bruschetta and pasta were to die for. You can purchase their local olive oil, truffle products, and in-house wine directly after the tour. All in all, an incredible experience!

As an adult couple we were disappointed in this truffle hunting experience for the price of the activity. I think this would be a great activity for families with young children. The guide and the hosts were wonderful, the tour informative, the food average. The dog did find three truffles during the outing. Unfortunately, this did not meet our expectations, and we would choose an alternate activity versus this experience.

Don’t think twice. Tour was great, informative, animals were lovely…land/property incredible…couldn’t be more pleased with our decision to book.

Matteo was awesome. My wife and I had a blast learning so much about the area, the food, and the wine. We had more than enough to eat and the wine was delicious. We had fun on the short hike looking for truffles and enjoyed watching the dogs working. Pick up and drop off were a breeze.

Francesca and Family were Awesome!!! She and her Truffle hunting wizard were unbelievable!!! Thank you to the entire familia!!. The experience was amazing but the intermediate tour reseller between Viator and the Truffle Hunting family has not responded to numerous emails, texts and phone calls since the tour. PROBLEM; We paid for 3 persons over $700.000 ($204.00 per person). We paid to VIATOR and I have receipt. My wife was ill, and the intermediate tour reseller from Florence, Raffaella Benuzzi, told me that it was non refundable so we chose to bring ablocal friend in place of my wice who met us at the farm, Simone’ a bartender from our hotel…. He arrived late but he enjoyed the entire tour especially the family. The family/owner of the Truffle farm and tour told me that Raffaella Benuzzi was only going to pay her for 2 persons tickets because Raffaella Benuzzi thought my wife didn’t come and we only had 2 people. We did not we had 3. But even if we had 2, I had paid for 3 persons over 200 each… and it would be dishonest for Raffaella Benuzzi to receive the money for 3 from VIATOR and then refuse to pay Francesca the same fir 3?people….. and her, the reseller, cheat francesca and I and the reseller keep the $$$. Now since my friend Simone’ came at the last minute we were 3. However Franscesca only got paid for 2….. even though we were three…. SO, now I have to pay Franscesca tge money she did not get from Raffaella Benuzzi because Benuzzi kept it for herself. So unfair. I spoke to Raffaella Benuzzi before leaving the Truffle Farm and also afterwards. She indicated she would do the right thing. But as of today she has not confirmed , nor has the Truffle farm owner- Francesca confirmed that she paid. I have also written VIATOR about the problem. If she would just pay the kady, I will remove this post. Robin and Nancy Rush

We had an awesome time truffle hunting. It was a very special experience to watch their dog sniff out so many truffles. We had a lovely lunch and met a nice couple to hunt/dine with as well. I highly recommend this experience! It was memorable.

Best Hunt and lunch. Francesca, the truffle hunter told a good story and answerd all our crazy questions regarding hunting and truffles. Will try to come back in the fall for the White truffle hunt. Maybe an Eisenhower will be found… 😬

This was so awesome the highlight of our trip. Francesca explained how the dogs are trained and the life of a truffle hunter since she was 6 years old. The lunch was special with four wine parings and truffles as part of each course

We had an amazing experience! Niccolo picked us up in Florence and we had a pleasant drive on our way to the farm. He’s knowledgeable about many topics and very engaging. Upon arrival at the farm, we enjoyed a cup of coffee and got ready for our adventure. The manor house is stunningly beautiful. Levante the truffle hunting dog was enchanting. He found many truffles, even eating a couple! Niccolo guided us on our hunt and explained how Levante was trained. He also explained how truffles grow and are found! Very informative! After about an hour of hunting with wonderful results we returned to the manor house and feasted on pasta laden with the truffles we found. Our meal was paired with delicious wines. When the experience concluded, Niccolo delivered us back to Florence. Again with lively chatting. I highly recommend this experience!

After we foraged for truffles - with Levante our puppy truffle hunter - we had lunch using the truffles we found. Lunch was incredibly delicious! I think the most important thing to know is that it’s a bit of a trip to get to San Minato. We took a taxi from Lucca and it was €100 each way. I think it’s more if you’re coming from Florence. We only truffle hunted for a half hour but we enjoyed the beautiful villa for about 2 hours.

Lovely experience, wonderful food! My family enjoyed our time very much. Francesca was an excellent host, sharing her knowledge with us and creating a very welcoming atmosphere.

Last weekend I checked Truffle Hunting off my bucket list! Our guide Niccolò picked us up in Florence to head to the truffle hunt! He was great and we would reccomend him to anyone! We started the hunt with our truffle expert Francesca and the cutest doggy Levante! We found a lot of black truffles that we were able to enjoy in our truffle pasta made with truffle butter and fresh truffles and a fried egg over braised fennel and fresh truffles. Both dishes were amazing, as well as, the wine pairings, toasted bread with olive oil and garlic and also a big bowl of fresh truffle butter! We ended our day at a local winery for some great wine and snacks! The views were stunning at sunset as well! A perfect Saturday and fun memories we will always cherish!

We did the truffle hunting experience as a group of 40 the day after our wedding. Vittorio was very helpful in making sure that we had a bus big enough for the group and gave clear instructions on where to meet him in Florence for our pickup. Our group loved learning about truffles, meeting the dogs, and exploring the woods. We even found 4 truffles that day, though Luna ate one. The lunch is absolutely delightful. Each course is paired with wine and you get to try fresh bread with all of the different truffle oils and butters. I could eat that truffle pasta every single day. You are served in the family home and are treated just like family. It's really very special. At the end of the tour, you can buy wines, salts, or truffle oils. They also sell beautiful candles and plates. This was the perfect post-wedding activity and was so much fun. We left at around 11am and got back by 5pm.

Incredible experience with Choc the truffle dog! From the minutes Chiara picked us up it was a great experience. She told us about the sites , history and truffle hunting, the wine and grapes in this-region. The owner Francesca took us out on her property and despite the rain found several different truffles. We were treated with their family wine and a great meal. The truffles were amazing . Their home with 6th century truffle hunting is beautiful. One of the highlights of our trip.

We really enjoyed truffle hunting with Francesca and her sweet dogs, Choco and Bella. Our guide, Niccolo, was young but full of information and happy to answer all of our questions. The lunch at that the family farmhouse was outstanding!

Such a wonderful experience! When we booked our 3-week trip to Italy, we realized October was mushroom season. We found Francesca's tour online, and booked the truffle hunt experience with lunch/tasting menu. This family-run business provides boots and rain jackets for the woodland walk portion of the experience - much appreciated as it was lightly raining the day of our tour, and rather muddy. Almost immediately, Francesca's dog, Levante, located several truffles, and Francesca showed how she gently retrieves them. The smell of a white truffle fresh from the ground is AMAZING! Afterwards, we were welcomed into the family's home for a multi-course meal - each one featuring truffle, and paired with wine. We shared this experience with couples from all over the world, exchanging travel adventures and culture. Travel at its best!

For the money I thought the tour was over priced. The actual truffle hunt itself was barely 30-40 minutes. There was a lot of down time just hanging out waiting on lunch which was ok. I’d expect more of an explanation on the truffles itself and some discussion on the history and land etc. The location was super beautiful and the guide was very nice. Honestly, I’d give 2 more starts if the price was half.

This was a great time! The truffle hunt itself was very easy walking, good for all abilities and the lunch after was full of amazing food and great conversation! Highly recommend!

The truffle hunting and wine tasting were a great experience for the whole family. Francesca, Matteo and the dog, Levante, were amazing to meet and spend time with. Francesca was very knowledgeable about the truffles and Matteo was a great sommelier, pairing the meals with great wine. After the truffle hunting and meal, Matteo took us to a vineyard and showed us how the wine was made. Truly a memorable and delicious experience for all 6 of us. Would do again!

We had the best experience truffle hunting with Francesca and her dog Levante! We spent 10 days in Italy and this was our favorite experience. The lunch that followed was exceptional as well! An authentic and memorable time! We will talk about this day for years to come. Thank you Francesca and all for the best time!

Niccolo was our guide for our morning of truffle hunting and then the afternoon wine tour. We are so glad that we booked this version as it came with van Transporation. This was much easier. During the ride Niccolo taught us much about the region and Italian life. We spoke about education, music, and wine. On our truffle tour we found a black truffle and two white truffles. The lunch prepared with the truffles was wonderful. We highly recommend this tour and Niccolo as he is kind, passionate, and a wonderful conversationalist.

Such a fun and unique experience! Francesca and Ivante were such a great truffling hunting duo! It was very interesting to learn how truffles are found and watch the dog at work. After our stroll Franchesca's mom prepared lunch for us in their home, which was beautifully decorated. We really got to know the other guests on the tour with us which was a lot of fun. Glad we had such a great group to chat with.

This was by far the highlight of our trip. The host, Francesca (and her marvelous family!), were the most hospitable people you could ever ask for. It was a full experience of truffle hunting with the dog (a 7 month old beauty!) followed by amazing meals and wines. ALL homemade on-premise, including the condiments. I was worried that it would be "tourist-y", but it was the complete opposite. Very organic and real. Great conversation with the family and our 'hunting' couple friends that we met. I was so pleased. I was able to purchase the Truffle Butter and can't wait to try it at home. Can't wait to tell all I know about this phenomenal experience!

An absolutely extraordinary experience and probably the highlight of our week in Tuscany. Francesca was a wonderful guide and a gracious host. The two black truffles found by her and Aries (her dog) were used as ingredients in an incredible lunch that was prepared (with her mother's assistance) after the excursion. The villa is spectacular and the furnishings make you feel like you've found the heart of Tuscany. Grazie Mille.

This tour was amazing! Matteo, our tour guide, drove us from Florence to the truffle hunter’s home . He was so knowledgeable and fun to talk with on our one hour drive. He loves what he does and so he really enjoys sharing his knowledge with the guests on his tours. The truffle hunt was very authentic. We were able to go into the woods with Francesca, the hunter, and two of her amazing dogs. She provided boots for us to borrow and mosquito wipes to use before we left the house. After finding truffles, she took some fun pictures of us with the edible treasures and the dogs. The lunch she prepared us was delicious and full of truffles! The property is beautiful and Francesca made us feel welcome. After our time with the truffles, Matteo took us to an organic winery, San Michele a Torri, to try some terrific olive oil, three wines and some delicious meats. We enjoyed our time with Matteo driving back to Florence discussing many things we learned on our tour. We would recommend this tour and Matteo as a guide if you was to have wonderful, authentic experience.

Wonderful history of truffle hunting! Lunch in their home was like eating in a museum… Francesca was great