• 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

Tibetan bridges, the attraction of height without the risk

Four suspension bridges in Lombardy
Ponti tibetani, il fascino dell’altezza senza rischi
  • Active & Green

Motorcycle touring in Lombardy

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

Ciclovia del Po

It stretches from the confluence of the Ticino and Po rivers to Parpanese harbour in Arena Po. The track is suitable for both walkers and cyclists with sections through Oltrepò river bank towns and others along the Po itself.
Fiume Po
  • Active & Green

Il Fiore di Borgoratto Mormorolo

A new network of hiking trails in Oltrepò Pavese.
  • Active & Green

Lake Iseo

Visit Lake Iseo between art and nature.
Trekking sul Lago d'Iseo
  • Active & Green

Bouldering in Spriana

Spriana is one of the towns of Valmalenco. This is the ideal place for bouldering in spring or fall and is also great for kids, thanks to the park close to the bouldering area.
Boulder a Spriana
  • Active & Green

Lombardy on the road..

Lombardy: wonderful views to see on the road.
Lombardy on the road
  • Active & Green

Gardens Brescia

Let yourself be enchanted by the splendor of the green and the thousand colors of the nature of the gardens of Brescia
Gardens Brescia, the greener side of Lombardy
  • Active & Green

The 10 Most Beautiful Trees in Varese, The Garden Province

Between scenic historic gardens, large forests and lakeside villages, the province of Varese is a treasure trove of arboreal jewels.
  • Active & Green

Foliage in Lombardy

From Via Francigena to the Cadorna Line. Discover where to see the autumn colours in Lombardy
Via Francigena Corte Sant'Andrea Lodi
  • Active & Green

Where to harvest chestnuts in Lombardy

Forests, hills, panoramic viewpoints and plays of light: discover where and when to collect chestnuts in Lombardy, as well as other useful tips
La raccolta delle castagne - Parco Regionale del Campo dei Fiori (VA)
  • Active & Green

4 locations to visit in winter

Winter is not just about sports you can do in the snow, it is also the time when nature reveals its fairytale heart.
  • Active & Green

Where to Go Paragliding in Lombardy

A race and a jump in the void. Adrenaline and wonder. Discover where to paraglide in Lombardy
Parapendio in Lombardia
  • Active & Green

Kitesurf in Lombardy

Where to do kitesurfing in Lombardy
Windsurf, Como lake
  • Active & Green

Ice Skating

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

Ca' branchi walk - Somasassa - Caven - Tresenda

Somasassa
  • Active & Green

The High Route of Valmalenco – 6th stage

Rif. Marinelli Bombardieri (2813 m) - Bocchetta di Caspoggio (2983 m) - A. Fellaria e Rif. Bignami (2382 m)
Passaggio dalla bocchetta di Caspoggio
  • Active & Green

6 slopes for the last skiing of the season

Bormio, Colere, Adamello Ski, Livigno, Madesimo and Santa Caterina Valfurva, ideal destinations for a ski-in, ski-out Easter
6 slopes for the last skiing of the season
  • Active & Green

Unforgettable Experiences on Lake Maggiore

  • Active & Green

Levadina

Walking in the Levadina Oasis of San Donato Milanese, an opportunity to spend an afternoon immersed in nature.
Levadina
  • Active & Green