Spend a full day on Crete’s Lassithi Plateau searching for Cretan black truffles with Lagotto dogs, then learn to cook and pair them with local wines. This private, guided experience combines light fieldwork with a hands-on culinary demonstration and regional sightseeing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low, stubbled horizon opens as the road climbs away from Heraklion — olive groves fall behind and the Lassithi Plateau spreads out, ringed by low karst ridges and the slow rotation of white wooden windmills. The morning air smells of earth and herbs; a Lagotto Romagnolo tugs at its handler and the hunt begins, the soil itself guarding a seasonal secret.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most travelers who can walk 1.5–2 hours over uneven ground and stand for a cooking demonstration.
Wildlife
History
Lassithi Plateau has long been an agricultural basin with Minoan-era connections; the nearby Diktaion Andron (Cave of Zeus) ties local landscape to ancient Greek myth.
Conservation
Truffle habitats are sensitive; stick to designated paths, avoid disturbing spore-rich soil patches and follow handlers’ guidance to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Truffle Hunting, Culinary & Wine Celebration from Heraklion today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Sturdy footwear
Wear shoes with good traction — truffle hunting involves 1.5–2 hours on uneven, sometimes loose soil.
Hydration & sun protection
Bring a refillable water bottle and sun hat; the plateau sits near 800–900 m with strong sun exposure in summer.
Respect the dogs
Follow the handler’s guidance around the Lagotto Romagnolo — they’re trained to find truffles and work best without interference.
Plan for a full day
This is a 6–8 hour private excursion including pickup, hunting, a cooking demo and local stops — schedule accordingly.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction and ankle support for walking on uneven plateau soils.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the hunt and throughout the full-day tour.
summer
Sun hat & sunscreen
Protects against strong sun exposure on the open plateau.
summer
Light windproof jacket
Useful for cool mornings and breezy conditions at higher elevation.
spring