Tuscan Truffle Hunting & Cooking with Under The Tuscan Sun

Set against the rolling hills and mosaic farmlands of Tuscany, Under The Tuscan Sun Tours invites visitors to step beyond Florence’s famed Renaissance streets and immerse themselves in a hands-on journey through the Tuscan countryside. Starting just outside the city, this private shore excursion from Livorno is an authentic dive into the region’s culinary roots and rural traditions, centered on truffle hunting with expert dogs. Tuscany’s unique soil and climate create an ideal habitat for prized black and white truffles, elusive subterranean fungi that foragers hunt with specially trained dogs, weaving through oak groves and olive orchards. The thrill of discovery pairs perfectly with the sensory richness of the next phase: a cooking class held at a centuries-old villa. Here, visitors roll up their sleeves to master hand-made pasta enriched with fresh truffles, guided by local chefs whose recipes have been passed down generations. The meal that follows highlights this culinary treasure, matched thoughtfully with Chianti wines from nearby vineyards. Two distinct medieval towns anchor the afternoon portion of the day — either San Gimignano’s soaring towers or Certaldo’s cobblestone lanes offer a window into Tuscany’s storied past, providing a contrasting pace to the morning’s rustic outdoor adventure. Under The Tuscan Sun Tours stands out in Tuscany’s outdoor recreation scene because it combines nature, gastronomy, and cultural heritage into one personalized experience. This isn’t just a sightseeing tour; it’s a deep dive into Tuscan life as lived by locals, framed by some of Italy’s most iconic landscapes. For those wanting something beyond the city’s museums and piazzas, this journey delivers both memorable moments and an understanding of the region’s timeless connection to its land and food traditions.