The white truffle, in its own landscape
Istrian white truffles (Tuber magnatum Pico) are associated especially with the grey, clay-rich soils of the Mirna Valley and Motovun Forest. They grow underground and are located with trained dogs. Autumn is the emblematic season, when Livade becomes one of the focal points of Istria’s truffle calendar.
Treat the truffle as a fresh seasonal ingredient, not a souvenir flavour. A good visit means tasting it simply, asking about origin and season, and—if you join a hunt—choosing an experienced local guide who respects the forest and the rules governing harvesting.
Taste the valley, not just the truffle
The strongest Livade table is rooted in central Istria: fresh pasta, eggs, local cheeses, olive oil, seasonal mushrooms, game and wines such as Malvasia and Teran. Truffle works best as an accent—shaved at the table, warmed by the dish rather than buried under heavy flavouring.
The forest that makes the story possible
Motovun Forest extends along the Mirna River Valley toward Livade. Protected as a special forest vegetation reserve since 1963, it preserves a rare lowland Mediterranean forest community of common oak, narrow-leafed ash and elm. The official protected area covers 275 hectares.