• 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

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 green escape in Milan

Parco Sempione, Milano
  • Active & Green

Monumental trees in Lombardy

The art of knowing trees in Lombardy
Alberi monumentali in Lombardia
  • Active & Green

Running al Parco di Monza

Running is good for you. And running in the middle of nature? Even better! Come and join us at Monza Park.
Running Parco di Monza
  • Active & Green

Valmalenco sports centers

Valmalenco offers all nature lovers and sports enthusiasts various facilities-sports centers, each with its own special features.
  • Active & Green

Castelveccana

Breathtaking views and green woods characterize Castelveccana, a charming village situated on the shores of Lake Maggiore.
Castelveccana and its districts, among cycle tourism, history and culture
  • Active & Green

Gardens in Lombardy

The botanical gardens of Lombardy are real jewels to visit, so come on, what are you waiting for?
Gardens in Lombardy, discover what to see
  • Active & Green

Valsassina and the Grigne

From one-day trips that anyone can enjoy, to climbing on the vertical walls of the Grigne, through to splendid hikes leading up to the mountain refuges
Valsassina and the Grigne
  • 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

Spine-tingling Lombardy: discovering 5 mysterious places in our region

Lombardia da brivido - Faccia del Diavolo
  • 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

Snowshoe walking in Prato Valentino: Anello Dosso Laù

  • Active & Green

Valtellina Nascosta: second installment

Valtellina continues to surprise with its hidden corners and wonders.
  • Active & Green

Gardens Pavia

Not just the city: a walk through botanic gardens and oasis for a green break
Gardens Pavia, discovering Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Discover Sporty!

The Lombardy Region App dedicated to mountain sports and tourism enthusiasts
Snow hiking in Bormio
  • Active & Green

E-bikes in Lombardy

The bicycle is definitely the ideal way to discover an area, thanks to the e-bike, cycling tourism is just within everyone's reach!
Po park bicycle path
  • Active & Green

Varese Motorland

A land to explore on 2 wheels...
  • Active & Green

From the metropolis to the province: Milan's top 10 monumental trees

In an area as rich in history as the Metropolitan City of Milan, there is no shortage of valuable green monuments.
  • 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

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