Mushroom picking in Tuscany

When the colors of fall revamp the woods and the air is filled with the scent of earth and chestnuts, an ancient ritual comes alive in Tuscany: mushroom picking. 
From the chestnut groves of Garfagnana to the beech forests of Casentino and the slopes of Mount Amiata, the Tuscan undergrowth provides an ideal habitat for porcini, ovoli and many other species of mushrooms, as the stars of seasonal cuisine.

Before setting off, it is important to know the rules that apply to both residents and tourists. Those who are not residents of Tuscany must pay a small fee to the region of:

• 15 euro for one day
• 40 euro for one week
• 100 euro for one year

Payment can be made out to the Regione Toscana (Tuscany Region), indicating in the reason for payment “Raccolta funghi” (meaning, “Mushroom picking”) and the period of validity.

A permit and ID must be brought along during collection. Up to 3 kilograms of mushrooms can be picked per person per day, only during daylight hours, without using any tools that damage the soil and using rigid, aerated baskets that allow the spores to spread.

Caution is key. If you are unsure about edibility, you can contact the mycological services of the local health authorities, offering free mushroom recognition advice.

In many areas of Tuscany, harvesting is more than just an activity but a time of community and culture, celebrated with festivals, walks and dishes that tell of the deep connection between man and nature.
Respecting the forest and its rhythms means preserving an environmental and gastronomic heritage that makes the Tuscan autumn an authentic and unrepeatable experience.
Click here for the complete regulations.