• 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

Train & Bike Valtellina

Discover Valtellina with the Train& Bike offer!
  • 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

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

Birdwatching in Lombardy

Parks, nature reserves and oases where you can take a glimpse into the secret lives of birds
Birdwatching in Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Four Panoramic Walks by Lake Como

Triangolo lariano
  • Active & Green

Five panoramic viewing points in Brianza

  • 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

Monumental trees in Lombardy

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

When picnics become chic

Five elegant picnic ideas in Lombardy, with delightful scenery and elegant food and wine experiences.
  • Active & Green

The High Route of Valmalenco – 1st stage

Torre Santa Maria (frazione Ciappanico) - Alpe Piasci - Rif. Cometti (1720 m) - Arcoglio sup (2123 m) - Cima Bianca (2490 m) - Rif. Bosio (2086 m)
  • Active & Green

It's harvest time in Lombardy 

In the vineyards and cellars of Lombardy, you can take part in the ancient rituals of grape harvesting and pressing and get to know the land where some of the region's best wines are produced
È tempo di vendemmia in Lombardia 
  • Active & Green

Parks and gardens to explore online

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

A green escape in Milan

Parco Sempione, Milano
  • Active & Green

Sustainable tourism in lombardy

There is a way of sustainable travel capable of establishing a deep connection with the places that are visited.
Sustainable tourism in Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Where to do Horseback Riding in Lombardy

Where to do horseback riding in Lombardy, route suggestions
  • 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

The joy of running

Enjoy your training in Cremona
  • Active & Green

The Bassone Peat Bog in Albate

The Oasi Torbiere of Bassone di Albate encloses in a few hectares an extreme wealth of very different habitats.
The Bassone Peat Bog in Albate
  • Active & Green

Ca' branchi walk - Somasassa - Caven - Tresenda

Somasassa
  • Active & Green

Walks for everyone

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