Summer truffle found: E-bike for connoisseurs and nature lovers

You cycle on your e-bike through the picturesque French countryside, the sun warms your face and a gentle wind blows around your nose. The hilly fields and dense forests exude a tantalizing scent of earth and fresh leaves. Your goal: the coveted summer truffles that are native to this region and are considered a true delicacy.

Von Fabian Huber | 4 minutes read time

Sommertrüffel gefunden: E-Bike für Genießer und Naturfreunde

About the author Fabian Huber

Fabian founded MYVELO together with Vincent. The two share a long-standing passion for cycling. Together they have cycled thousands of kilometers and fought for victories in the German racing bike league. The idea of founding MYVELO arose from their many years of experience and knowledge of what makes a good bike. Find out more about MYVELO now

Published: August 1, 2024 | Updated: August 1, 2024

Preparation: The perfect route and equipment

Before you set off, it's important to plan the right route and get the necessary equipment. France has numerous regions known for their truffles, including Provence, Périgord and the Bordeaux region. These areas are not only famous for their culinary treasures, but also for their stunning landscapes, which are ideal for exploring by e-bike.

selection of the region

Provence: This region in the south of France is known for its fragrant lavender fields and picturesque villages. Here you will find a variety of summer truffles, especially in the forests around the towns of Carpentras and Richerenches.
Périgord: Located in the heart of France, Périgord is a paradise for truffle lovers. The region offers a rich history, charming medieval towns and dense oak forests that provide ideal conditions for truffle hunting.
Bordeaux: The famous wine region is not only known for its excellent wines, but also for its truffles. The rolling hills and extensive forests offer perfect conditions for a successful search.

Equipment and Preparation

A well-equipped e-bike, e.g. a trekking e-bike, is essential for your tour. Make sure that it is suitable for long distances and different types of terrain. You will also need:

Truffle hunting dog: A well-trained dog is the best companion when searching for truffles. Alternatively, you can also take part in guided truffle hunts where professional truffle hunters and their dogs accompany you.
Truffle knife: A special knife with a curved blade helps you to carefully remove the truffles from the ground without damaging them.
Basket and cooling: A basket to store the truffles you find and a cooling box to keep them fresh.

On the way: The beauty of the French countryside

As you cycle through the selected region on your e-bike, you will be impressed by the diversity and beauty of the French landscapes. Every kilometer offers new, fascinating impressions - from wide fields to dense forests to charming villages.

nature experiences and sights

Lavender fields in Provence: The endless lavender fields are a true feast for the senses. The beguiling scent and the rich violet of the flowers offer an incomparable experience.
Castles and palaces in the Périgord: The region is rich in historical buildings that provide an insight into France's past. Visit the Château de Beynac or the Château de Castelnaud and be enchanted by their impressive architecture.
Vineyards in Bordeaux: Take the opportunity to visit one of the many wineries and take part in a wine tasting. The combination of first-class wines and culinary delights is a highlight of every trip.

The Search for Summer Truffles

The highlight of your trip is, of course, the search for the coveted summer truffles. These noble mushrooms grow underground and are known for their unique aroma. With the help of your truffle-hunting dog or an experienced truffle hunter, you embark on the exciting search.

Rules and regulations for truffle hunting in France

Before you go looking for truffles, it is important to know the legal and ethical rules:

Private land: Truffles often grow on private land. You need permission from the landowner before you can hunt for truffles there. Without this permission, entering and hunting for truffles is illegal and can have legal consequences.
Public land: In some regions there are publicly accessible forests and land areas where truffle picking is permitted. Check with your local municipality or forestry office in advance about specific regulations and whether a permit is required.
Nature conservation laws: Truffle hunting may be restricted or prohibited in protected areas or national parks. These laws serve to protect the natural environment and its biodiversity.
Seasonal restrictions: Truffle hunting is regulated during certain seasons to protect stocks. The main season for summer truffles (Tuber aestivum) runs from May to September, while the season for the more popular winter truffles (Tuber melanosporum) runs from November to March.
Minimum age: Some regions have a minimum age for truffle hunting. Check local regulations.

Sustainability and Ethics

Sustainable practice: Use appropriate tools such as special truffle knives to avoid unnecessary damage to the soil. Be sure to only harvest ripe truffles and leave small truffles in the soil so they can continue to grow.
Respect nature: Be careful not to disturb any plants or animals and leave the search site as you found it.

Tips for Truffle Hunting

Timing: The best time to look for summer truffles is from June to August. During this time, the truffles are ripe and develop their full aroma.
Location: Summer truffles prefer to grow in calcareous soils under oaks, hazelnut bushes and lime trees. Look for signs such as disturbed soil, which could indicate the presence of truffles.
Patience and attention: Searching for truffles requires patience and a keen eye. Trust your dog and pay attention to his behavior to find the valuable mushrooms.

Pure enjoyment: preparing the truffles you found

Once you have successfully found truffles, it is time to properly enjoy these culinary treasures. Preparing truffles is an art in itself and requires little effort to bring out their full aroma.

Simple and delicious truffle recipes

Truffle pasta: Cook fresh pasta al dente and toss it in a mixture of butter and cream. Grate the summer truffle over the top and refine the dish with parmesan and a pinch of salt.
Truffle omelette: Crack eggs and whisk them with a little cream. Pour the mixture into a hot pan and fry over medium heat. Before the omelette is completely set, add grated truffles and fold the omelette.
Truffle butter: Mix soft butter with finely chopped truffles and a pinch of salt. Let the butter solidify in the fridge and enjoy it on fresh baguette or with a juicy steak.

An unforgettable adventure

The e-bike journey on a summer truffle hunt in France is more than just a culinary experience. It is an opportunity to discover the country's stunning nature and culture, learn new skills and enjoy the pleasures of the simple life. Whether you are a passionate foodie, a nature lover or an adventurer, this trip will enchant you and give you unforgettable memories.

Pack your e-bike , grab your truffle-hunting dog and set off on an adventure that will touch all your senses. France is waiting to be discovered by you - and the summer truffles are waiting to be found by you.