• 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

Family Tourism Lombardy

Lombardy ... also for "child"
Family Tourism Lombardy, useful tips
  • Active & Green

Cycling from Aprica to Val Belviso

  • Active & Green

The trail of memories and labours

This trail was dedicated to the memory of the inhabitants of Castione who, in the past generations, walked along this path carrying heavy pack baskets. The path linked the highest part of the town to the valley floor and allowed people to carry out farm works.
  • 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

Bruschera Oasis

On the shore of Lake Maggiore, it is a small paradise, a place of passage and nesting of various species of birds.
Visit the Bruschera Oasis and the cane thickets on Lake Maggiore
  • 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

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

Tibetan bridges, the attraction of height without the risk

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

Valtellina Nascosta: second installment

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

Snowshoe walking in Prato Valentino: Anello Dosso Laù

  • Active & Green

Lombardy, land of spring waters

Fountains and springs, the natural oases of Lower Lombardy
Lombardy, land of spring waters
  • Active & Green

Po, a river to experience.

The italian longest river offers you unforgettable moments.
Gita fuori porta a Cremona lungo il Po
  • Active & Green

Routes for Walkers of All Levels

Besides many shelters of Valmalenco, easily attainable from families and who approaches to the world of hiking for the first time, we signal some simple itineraries suitable for all. 
  • Active & Green

A green week in Valtellina

Escape to the mountains just a two-hour drive from Milan for a rural retreat with trekking, typical pizzoccheri pasta and towns that are absolute hidden gems
A green week in Valtellina
  • Active & Green

Ice Skating

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

Il Fiore di Borgoratto Mormorolo

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

Parks and gardens to explore online

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

Valle Intelvi: 4 excursions in the land between two lakes

The Val d’Intelvi offers visitors some unmissable walking routes that are suitable for everyone to explore on foot or by bike
Valle Intelvi
  • Active & Green

Lake Iseo

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

The green heart of Milan

Culture and nature: in the heart of Milan, our itinerary explores the city's most beautiful gardens and green areas
The green heart of Milan
  • Active & Green