• 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

Parks and gardens to explore online

Green virtual tours in Lombardy
Parchi e giardini da scoprire online
  • Active & Green

Noci park

The Parco delle Noci, located in Melegnano, is one of the first Urban Oasis built in Italy.
Noci Park
  • Active & Green

Foppe di trezzo

Trip outside the town of Trezzo d'Adda to discover a small but very suggestive WWF oasis.
Foppe di Trezzo
  • Active & Green

Teglio - San Martino - Murenken - St. Anthony walk.

Walk
  • Active & Green

In between the lake and the sky

Episode 2
  • Active & Green

9 places surrounded by nature

If you want to spend a day in contact with nature, we recommend these really special destinations.
Discovering Lombardy and its nature
  • Active & Green

Lago d'Iseo - Best trails

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

Val Masino, the untamed heart of the Rhaetic mountains

Outdoor activities and chilling in Europe's little Yosemite. Mountains and valleys where nature rules supreme and the man who enjoys it respects its beauty
Val Masino, cuore selvaggio delle Retiche
  • Active & Green

Cool summer escapes

Between all its lakes and rivers, summer in Lombardy flows slowly, with enchanting landscapes to relax and cool off.
Val di Mello @inLombardia
  • Active & Green

Valchiavenna and Valle Spluga

High mountain pastures, lakes, rivers and a varied network of hiking trails through nature and mountain villages where time seems to have stood still
La Valchiavenna e la Valle Spluga
  • Active & Green

The Salt Route

From Varzi to the sea
  • 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

Doing sports in Varese

From rowing on the lake to gliding. From cycling to trekking. From golf to horse riding. Tips for playing sports in Varese
Volo a vela sul Lago di Varese
  • Active & Green

Cremona: an amazing town!

Cruises on the river, an extraordinary way to discover Cremona
La Motonave Mattei
  • Active & Green

Motorcycle touring in Lombardy

Motorcycle routes, getting to know Lombardy with the thrill of two wheels
Motorcycle touring in Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Ice Skating

Ice skating enthusiasts will find three tracks in the area around Sondrio and in Valmalenco
  • Active & Green

Unforgettable Experiences on Lake Maggiore

  • Active & Green

Pump Track

The Pump Track is a track consisting of small jumps, bumps and parabolic curves, designed to be ridden without ever pedaling!
  • 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

The Soapstone trail

A short loop trail that allows hikers to visit the ancient places where the renown soapstone of Pirlo used to be quarried and worked.
  • Active & Green