• 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

The 10 best panoramic viewpoints in Oltrepò Pavese for incredible photos

  • Active & Green

Teglio - Santa Maria - La Piana Promenade

Medium-easy route that winds from fields and chestnut forests to coniferous forests and pastures.
Teglio-Santa Maria-La Piana
  • Active & Green

Ice Skating

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

Places suspended between land and water

Between the trails and panoramic views of the Lombardy countryside, nature meets expanses of water, for a truly unique experience.
Luoghi sospesi tra terra e acqua
  • Active & Green

9 places surrounded by nature

If you want to spend a day in contact with nature, we recommend these really special destinations.
Discovering Lombardy and its nature
  • Active & Green

Action sports in Lombardy

From Lake Garda to Val Brembana, 5 action sports destinations offering a hefty dose of adrenaline
Action sports in Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Bergamo Valle di Scalve, nature, peace and quiet

Bergamo Valle di Scalve, tra natura e tranquillità
  • Active & Green

Journey to the centre of the earth in Lombardy

Discover the secrets of Lombardy's mines: history, culture, mystery, and trade in the heart of the mountains
Viaggio al centro della terra, in Lombardia
  • Active & Green

Sports in Monza

Outdoor activities in the heart of Brianza
Sport a Monza
  • Active & Green

Bergamo three small natural jewels: Val Vertova, Val Sedornia and Val Sanguigno

Off the beaten tourist track, but close to the Valle Seriana, there are three small valleys, just waiting to be discovered, either on foot or mountain bike
Bergamo tre piccoli gioielli naturali: Val Vertova, Val Sedornia e Val Sanguigno
  • Active & Green

Cycling from Col d'Anzana to Val Fontana

  • 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 – 8th stage

Rif. Cristina (2227 m) - A. Acquanera (2116 m) - Piazzo Cavalli (1710 m) - Caspoggio (1098 m) - Torre di Santa Maria (772 m)
Alpe cavaglia
  • Active & Green

Valtellina Nascosta: second installment

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

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

The ReGiS: Network of Historic Gardens.

A Network for the enhancement and proper management of historic gardens and parks open to the public in Lombardy
  • Active & Green

Horse riding

  • 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

Gardens Sondrio

In the green heart of Lombardy, in parks and gardens a path among thousands of species of plants
Gardens Sondrio, the alluring face of Lombardy
  • Active & Green