• 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

Trezzo d'Adda what to see

A pleasant day to discover Trezzo sull'Adda: the historic center, the villas, the river and the central Taccani.
Trezzo d'Adda, what to see in a day
  • Active & Green

The “Triangolo Lariano”: the Corni di Canzo mountain group

These mountains are amazing for outdoor-life lovers with a choice of steep cliffs for climbers, erratic rocks for boulderers and high-altitude hiking trails with a lake view
  • Active & Green

Artist’s giant benches

The hunt is on. Discover six of the brightly coloured, supersized Big Benches by Chris Bangle that are adding to the scenery in Lombardy.
Ph: I Mille
  • 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

Ski Touring in Valmalenco

Valmalenco is a synonym to ski touring. Every spot of the valley is suitable for nice ascents.
Cresta delle Belleviste - Valmalenco
  • Active & Green

Lake Iseo

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

Spring in Valcamonica

4 ideas to enjoy the most sparkling season of the year in Val Camonica.
Signs of Spring at a Unesco Site
  • Active & Green

Sporting Landmarks in Lombardy

A selection of iconic sporting venues to take us through the history of sport in the Region as we move towards the Milano Cortina games.
  • Active & Green

Iron bridges, man-made constructions

Iron bridges, bold testimonies to the early 20th century
Ponti di ferro, opere dell’uomo - in Lombardia
  • 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

Unforgettable Experiences on Lake Maggiore

  • Active & Green

Monumental trees in Lombardy: 12 incredible specimens

Among the scenic and cultural riches of Lombardy, one can discover outstanding green monuments.
  • Active & Green

Cross Country in Valmalenco

In Valmalenco there are 3 cross-country tracks, suitable for everyone's need.
Sci nordico in Valmalenco
  • Active & Green

Ice skating in Lombardy

Here's where you can twirl amusement and some fall.
Ice Skating
  • 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

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

Ferrata del Torrione Porro

It is a moderate difficulty ferrata that develops in Valmalenco.
  • Active & Green

Brescia Nature, taste and traditions: Val Sabbia

From multiple-day treks with night-breaks at mountain huts, to shorter walks open to all: a charming valley for all tastes set against the background of the little lake Idro
  • Active & Green

In between the lake and the sky

Episode 2
  • Active & Green

12 blooms to see in Lombardy

With the arrival of spring, Lombardy is tinged with beautiful blooms. All to discover the most beautiful ones!
Blooms in Lombardy
  • Active & Green