• 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

Foliage in Lombardy

From Via Francigena to the Cadorna Line. Discover where to see the autumn colours in Lombardy
Via Francigena Corte Sant'Andrea Lodi
  • Active & Green

Shades of fall - excursions to discover the foliage

  • Active & Green

Train & Bike Valtellina

Discover Valtellina with the Train& Bike offer!
  • Active & Green

Teglio walk - Verida - Palama - Ravarola - Teglio

Simple walk through the characteristic rural mid-mountain environment, where cultivated fields, meadows, vineyards and orchards alternate. Depending on the season, typical tellin crops of potatoes, barley, rye and buckwheat can be seen.
  • Active & Green

The Park Colonie Padane is open!

Come and discover the park!
  • 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

Adrenaline and Rafting on the Ticino

Active holiday in the province of Pavia
Active vacations in Pavia
  • Active & Green

Snowshoe walking in Prato Valentino: Anello Dosso Laù

  • 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

Brughiera Briantea Park

Park that extends in the territory between Milan and Como and represents one of the largest forest areas of the Lombard plain.
Brughiera Briantea Park
  • 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

The High Route of Valmalenco – 2nd stage

Rif Bosio (2086 m) - A Mastabbia (2077 m) - A Giumellino (1756 m) - Laghetti Sassersa (2369 m) - Passo Ventina (2675 m) Alpe Ventina (1960 m)
Laghi Sassersa
  • Active & Green

Four curious places that enchant in Lombardy

Surprise yourself with authentic and singular places surrounded by fabulous views
Adobe stock Gaudi Grosio
  • Active & Green

Doing sports in Varese

From rowing on the lake to gliding. From cycling to trekking. From golf to horse riding. Tips for playing sports in Varese
Volo a vela sul Lago di Varese
  • Active & Green

Gera d'Adda: legends flowing between Adda and Milan

Between the Adda and Martesana rivers, places tell the story of Lombardy's history and industriousness
Gera d'Adda: legends flowing between Adda and Milan
  • Active & Green

The High Route of Valmalenco – 6th stage

Rif. Marinelli Bombardieri (2813 m) - Bocchetta di Caspoggio (2983 m) - A. Fellaria e Rif. Bignami (2382 m)
Passaggio dalla bocchetta di Caspoggio
  • Active & Green

Journey inside the Bagnada Mine

Municipality of Lanzada (SO)
  • Active & Green

Cycling through the land of good living

From Pavia to Lomellina and the hills of Oltrepò: some of the most scenic cycling routes.
In bici sulla Greenway Voghera Varzi
  • 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

The high route of Valmalenco - presentation

The high route of Valmalenco is a trekking of 8 stage, around 110 km.
  • Active & Green