• Active & Green

The Salt Route

From Varzi to the sea

The stretch that winds from Varzi to Genoa, once traveled by merchants and pilgrims, is known as the Via del Sale (Salt Route), named after the trade of this precious commodity.

Today, the Via del Sale is an ideal itinerary for travelers seeking something off the beaten path—a journey through authentic landscapes and diverse local traditions. Along the way, visitors can admire ancient churches, castles, and picturesque villages set within a landscape that has remained largely unchanged over time. The route follows scenic trails climbing through woodlands, where it is not uncommon to encounter wildlife such as deer, roe deer, and squirrels.

The Via del Sale can be explored on foot, on horseback, or by mountain bike, offering a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. Trekking in the Oltrepò Pavese is particularly captivating: it allows visitors to immerse themselves in unspoiled nature, discover lesser-known yet historically rich places, and enjoy the region’s renowned food and wine specialties.

The route is generally accessible and does not present significant technical difficulties, although some sections involve notable elevation changes. It can be comfortably divided into stages, with opportunities to stop in small villages along the ancient mule tracks, where traditional inns offer a warm welcome and a chance to relax.

Embark on the Via del Sale and experience a timeless journey through history, nature, and tradition.

Information:

Comune di Varzi: +39038352118

Sezione Cai Voghera:  +39334/2756199

Infopoint  Godiasco Salice Terme: +39038391207

Comunità Montana dell’Oltrepò Pavese:  +390383545832


Attachments


Other links

Take me here: La Via del Sale da Varzi al mare

On the same topic

Journey to the centre of the earth in Lombardy

Discover the secrets of Lombardy's mines: history, culture, mystery, and trade in the heart of the mountains
Viaggio al centro della terra, in Lombardia
  • Active & Green

Gardens Sondrio

In the green heart of Lombardy, in parks and gardens a path among thousands of species of plants
Gardens Sondrio, the alluring face of Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Thousand-Year Larch Trail

The oldest tree in Lombardy can be discovered with an unusual hike among the breathtaking views of Valmalenco
Thousand-Year Larch Trail
  • Active & Green

Sports for all tastes in Valle Camonica

There is a summer Camonica Valley and a winter Camonica Valley. A white valley dedicated to winter sports, but also green with meadows and forests
Camonica Valley - Tonale
  • Active & Green

Gardens Monza

Relax and nature among the rose gardens in Villa Reale of Monza and in the parks of the province.
Mete verdi lombardia
  • Active & Green

Discovering the Big Benches in the province of Pavia

How to reconnect with childhood by rediscovering the landscape with the Big Benches!
Big Bench in provincia di Pavia
  • Active & Green

Brughiera Briantea Park

Park that extends in the territory between Milan and Como and represents one of the largest forest areas of the Lombard plain.
Brughiera Briantea Park
  • Active & Green

Hiking with kids in Lombardy - Trails for tourists and athletes

Hiking is an excellent way to enjoy exercise, and Lombardy has some amazing trails for kids and adults to explore in winter. Find out more.
  • Active & Green

Ca' branchi walk - Somasassa - Caven - Tresenda

Somasassa
  • Active & Green

Sports in Monza

Outdoor activities in the heart of Brianza
Sport a Monza
  • Active & Green

Lago d'Iseo - Best trails

Discover Lake Iseo's best trails with the new trekking guide!
  • Active & Green

Val Trompia, where nature and ancient mines await visitors

Be ready for a great vacation in Val Trompia to discover natural treasures amidst huts and trails winding down the forest in Zone and reaching up to mounts Guglielmo and Maniva.
Brescia tra natura e antiche miniere: la Val Trompia
  • Active & Green

Places suspended between land and water

Between the trails and panoramic views of the Lombardy countryside, nature meets expanses of water, for a truly unique experience.
Luoghi sospesi tra terra e acqua
  • Active & Green

Spring in Lombardy

Spring has arrived ... all to discover the beauties of Lombardy!
Spring in Lombardy: where to go and what to do
  • Active & Green

Shades of fall - excursions to discover the foliage

  • Active & Green

Cycling through the land of good living

From Pavia to Lomellina and the hills of Oltrepò: some of the most scenic cycling routes.
In bici sulla Greenway Voghera Varzi
  • Active & Green

Adrenaline and Rafting on the Ticino

Active holiday in the province of Pavia
Active vacations in Pavia
  • Active & Green

10 Good Reasons to Visit Sondrio

10 idee per visitare la Valtellina
  • Active & Green

On the wings of winter

In winter at the Parco del Mincio to spot flocks of migratory birds.
The Vallazza Natural Reserve
  • Active & Green

Nature in Lombardy: five landscapes to die for

Bellagio (CO) - Villa Melzi d’Eril
  • Active & Green