In a social context, truffles are a severe bone of contention because you either like them or cannot stand them. However, in a gastronomical sense, truffles have their own festival that praises them to the skies. Therefore, you are welcome to be a part of the glorification of truffles on the 19th edition of the Istria Truffle Festival happening on Oct 5-6 2022, in Buzet, Croatia.‍

The autumn festival dedicates yet another annual weekend to this precious delicacy and produces by around 40 local producers and truffle hunters from neighboring countries – Slovenia and Italy. The visitors are invited for truffle tasting accompanied by wine, rakija, cheese, prosciutto, honey, jam, olive oil, fresh juice, homemade pasta, and much more.

Are you already interested in visiting? There’s more, so keep reading…‍

What to Expect from Istria Truffle Festival?‍

Istria is a Croatian region most recognizable for truffles, so Istria Truffle Festival poses as the most important truffle fair in Croatia and the region. It is organized in Buzet, a Croatian “truffle town.”

This is an ideal opportunity to taste and buy the truffles and truffle products on the spot. Additionally, those interested in how truffles are harvested may join a demonstrative search for truffles with expert and experienced truffle hunters. The festival also gives an award for the best truffle!

During the 2022 edition of the Istria Truffle Festival, visitors can join a 6-kilometer bike race or 11-kilometer trek on the truffle road. In addition, the festival has a dedicated time slot to present caterers and restaurant owners of Buzet. You can also join a homemade pasta workshop to learn how to make your own.

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What Are Truffles?‍

Truffles are considered the ultimate in luxury foods due to their cost and scarcity. So, if you see truffles on a restaurant’s menu, you know you are in for an extraordinary culinary experience. But what exactly are truffles?

The truffle is an edible spore of an underground fungus that grows near tree roots. Contrary to popular belief, they are not mushrooms; mushrooms grow above the surface. This is why truffles are often found by dogs trained to sniff them out during the truffle season between October and January, peaking in November when Istria Truffle Festival takes place.

There are two main types of truffles – black and white, the latter being more precious.‍

How Much Do Truffles Cost?‍

The truffle price varies based on several factors. For example, a white truffle has a sweet flavor and a delicate aroma and is typically more expensive than a black truffle because it’s harder to find and takes longer to harvest. Some take 20 years to sprout before they are ready for harvesting.

So, one kilogram of the rare white truffle may reach the price of hundreds, even thousands of euros. But, of course, truffles sell in smaller quantities that you may want to get for yourself during this year’s Istria Truffle Festival. So, do not miss this amazing opportunity to relish in a gourmand delicacy Istria is known. We hope to see you there!

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‍For more information, check the full program here.

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