White Truffle Hunting in the Crete Senesi: Autumn’s Most Magical Tuscan Experience

When autumn rolls into Tuscany, the rolling clay hills of the Crete Senesi turn golden and fragrant — it’s white truffle season. Between October and November, this quiet corner south of Siena becomes the center of Italy’s most exclusive culinary ritual: hunting for the precious tartufo bianco.

Why Go?

The Crete Senesi, with its lunar landscapes and cypress-lined lanes, is one of Tuscany’s most atmospheric regions. Visiting during truffle season offers not just beautiful scenery but the rare chance to join local hunters and their dogs in search of one of the world’s most coveted ingredients.

History

Truffle hunting has ancient roots in Tuscany, mentioned in Renaissance records and prized at noble banquets. The white truffle (Tuber magnatum Pico) grows wild underground, found only in select microclimates around Alba, San Miniato, and the Crete Senesi. Locals still pass down the art of cavatore (truffle hunting) through generations.

What to Expect

• Crisp autumn mornings among golden fields and oak groves.

• A mix of walking, storytelling, and watching truffle dogs at work.

• Local feasts celebrating freshly shaved truffles over handmade pasta.

5 Things to Do and See

1. Join a Truffle Hunt near San Giovanni d’Asso – This small town is Tuscany’s truffle capital. Many local farms organize guided hunts in October and November.

2. Visit the Truffle Museum (Museo del Tartufo) – Located in the Castle of San Giovanni d’Asso, it explains the biology and folklore behind truffle culture.

3. Experience the White Truffle Market – Held the last two weekends of November, the Mostra Mercato del Tartufo Bianco delle Crete Senesi is a must for tastings and demonstrations.

4. Explore the Landscapes of the Crete Senesi – Walk or drive the scenic SP60 between Asciano and San Giovanni d’Asso for classic Tuscan views.

5. Visit the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore – A serene Benedictine monastery with Renaissance frescoes surrounded by truffle-rich woods.

Food Culture

White truffles are best enjoyed fresh and simple: shaved over tagliolini pasta, scrambled eggs, or creamy risotto. In nearby trattorias, you’ll also find pecorino cheese, pici pasta, and local wines like Brunello di Montalcino or Orcia DOC to complete the experience.

Where to Eat

• Osteria delle Crete (San Giovanni d’Asso) – Rustic restaurant serving truffle-based dishes during the season.

• Ristorante La Buca di Enea (Pienza) – Classic Tuscan flavors with seasonal truffle menus.

• Trattoria Il Conte Matto (Trequanda) – Elegant yet cozy, known for truffle pasta and local olive oil.

Where to Stay

• Castello di San Fabiano (Monteroni d’Arbia) – Historic farmhouse offering truffle-hunting experiences and cooking classes.

• Agriturismo Baccoleno (Asciano) – Iconic Crete Senesi setting with panoramic views and easy access to San Giovanni d’Asso.

Off the Beaten Track

Visit Trequanda or Chiusure, smaller Crete Senesi hamlets surrounded by truffle woods, for quieter countryside walks and local wine tastings.

How to Get There by TrainTake a regional train from Florence or Siena to Asciano (via Siena, about 1.5–2 hours). From Asciano, local taxis or agriturismo transfers can bring you to San Giovanni d’Asso or truffle farms. Some tours offer pickups from Siena.