• 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

Excursions to Zelo Buon Persico

An itinerary to discover the canals and natural beauty of Lodigiano
Excursions to Zelo Buon Persico
  • Active & Green

Villoresi forest

Come and spend a nice day in the Bosco Villoresi oasis of Carugate!
Villoresi Forest
  • Active & Green

Four curious places that enchant in Lombardy

Surprise yourself with authentic and singular places surrounded by fabulous views
Adobe stock Gaudi Grosio
  • Active & Green

A summer at the summit

Backpack and discover the best treks and outdoor activities #inLombardia
Trekking in Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Suzzara forest

An urban forest in the Municipality of Suzzara, created to recreate an environment typical of the Po Valley of the past.
Suzzara Forest
  • Active & Green

Famous uphill cycling routes: Valfurva

The spectacle of the glaciers on the Confinale circular trail and great uphill cycle trails make this mountain popular with hikers and keen cyclists
Le salite dei campioni: la Valfurva
  • Active & Green

10 Good Reasons to Visit Sondrio

10 idee per visitare la Valtellina
  • Active & Green

Learn from nature in the lowlands of the Po Valley

Take a lesson, and much more, from the educational farms on the Lombardy Plains, learning about the environmental and cultural wealth of our countryside.
Natura maestra nella Bassa del Po
  • Active & Green

Greenway Voghera - Varzi

A green way towards the Appennines
  • Active & Green

Parco dello Stelvio, Bormio and Valdidentro

Walks and strenuous hikes in the heart of the Stelvio National Park surrounded by unspoilt nature and in close contact with mountain fauna
Il parco dello Stelvio, Bormio e la Valdidentro
  • Active & Green

The 10 best panoramic viewpoints in Oltrepò Pavese for incredible photos

  • Active & Green

Spring in Pavia

5 suggestions to spend a spring day in the name of outdoor in the territory of Pavia.
Boat trip along the Po river
  • Active & Green

In search of the king of mushrooms

Mushroom hunting in Lombardy. Three foolproof destinations for gathering the most delicious porcini mushrooms: Valtellina, Val Brembana, and Val d'Intelvi
Andar per funghi in Lombardia
  • Active & Green

The High Route of Valmalenco – 7th stage

Rif Bignami (2382 m) - A Gembrè (2190 m) - A Val Poschiavina (2230 m) - Passa Canciano (2464 m) - Passo Campagneda (2601 m) - Rif. Cristina (2227 m)
Diga di Alpe Gera
  • Active & Green

Montorfano oasis

Here is a forest reborn thanks to WWF: the Oasis of Montorfano, in the Municipality of Melegnano.
Montorfano Oasis
  • Active & Green

Lake Iseo

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

Tibetan bridges, the attraction of height without the risk

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

Journey inside the Bagnada Mine

Municipality of Lanzada (SO)
  • Active & Green

Swim away from the crowds in Lombardy

8 little-known destinations to swim in Lombardy
Swim away from the crowds in Lombardy
  • Active & Green

In Morbegno on the Bridge in the Sky

In Val Tartano, the highest Tibetan Bridge in Europe.
ph. Facebok page Bridge in the Sky
  • Active & Green