• 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

Where to Go Fishing in Lombardy

Carps, chars, trout. River and lake fish. Some advice on where to go fishing in Lombardy. From Pavia to Como
Where to go fishing in Lombardy, hints and ideas
  • 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

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

Resegone and Piani d’Erna

A real mountain holiday. Chilling and fun for the whole family. Piani d'Erna and the most extreme climbs on the vertical rock walls of Manzoni's mountain
Il Resegone e i Piani d’Erna
  • Active & Green

Bergamo Valle Imagna, a jewel just waiting to be discovered

A tiny natural jewel that still today preserves all the spirit of life in the mountains and the good flavours of food
Bergamo Valle Imagna, un tesoro tutto da scoprire
  • Active & Green

Family Tourism Lombardy

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

Lombardy on the road..

Lombardy: wonderful views to see on the road.
Lombardy on the road
  • 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

Sesto Calende

Sesto Calende: between history and nature.
Sesto Calende: gateway at Lake Maggiore, along Ticino river
  • Active & Green

Mountain flowers in May

Six itineraries to discover this month's flowers in the mountains of Lombardy
Fiori di maggio ad alta quota - in Lombardia
  • Active & Green

Valtellina Nascosta: second installment

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

In between the lake and the sky

Episode 2
  • 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

Excursions to Zelo Buon Persico

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

Gardens Como

Lake Como is famous for its villas with fantastic gardens: let's discover them together!
Gardens Como, discovering Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Markets in bloom, in May in Lombardy

A guide to the most beautiful and interesting events with flowers and plants in Lombardy, including markets, exhibitions, workshops, courses and competitions.
Mercati in fiore, a maggio in Lombardia - franciacortainfiore.it
  • Active & Green

Nordic Walking nel Parco

A green adventure
Nordic Walking
  • Active & Green

The High Route of Valmalenco – 5th stage

Rif. Lago Palu - Bochel del Torno (2208 m) - A. campascio (1844 m) - A. Musella (2021 m) - Rif. Carate (2636 m) - Rif. Marinelli (2813 m)
Vallone dello Scerscen
  • Active & Green

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

Walk
  • Active & Green