TAKE TIME FOR TRUFFLES

Much loved by connoisseurs, the truffle is a pungent fungi (outrageously expensive and a powerful aphrodisiac), which grows in the oak woods of the Mirna Valley in Istria. Although black truffles can be found all year, white truffles have a restricted season, from September to December.

Countless eateries in Istria feature this gourmet delight. At Zigante (restaurantzigante.com/en) in Livade, every dish on the menu includes truffles, with favourites such as ravioli with shrimps and truffles, steak with cream of roasted potatoes and truffles, and even truffle ice cream.

If you want to get a little more handson, join guided truffle hunting demonstrations with Karlic Tartufi (karlictartufi.hr/en), and embark on an adventure with licensed hunters and their dogs in the Mirna Valley.