• 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

Gema promenade - source of the Frascesca

Easy route and especially suitable for families with children
Source Frascesca
  • 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

SHADES OF FALL - WINE BIKE TOUR

  • 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

Excursions to Zelo Buon Persico

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

Cycling from Aprica to Val Belviso

  • Active & Green

Five waterfalls to visit in Lombardy

Five ideas for a trip out of town to enjoy the spectacular waterfalls and picturesque scenery of Lombardy.
Five waterfalls to visit in Lombardy- ph@istock - inlombardia
  • Active & Green

Famous uphill cycling routes: Valfurva

The spectacle of the glaciers on the Confinale circular trail and great uphill cycle trails make this mountain popular with hikers and keen cyclists
Le salite dei campioni: la Valfurva
  • Active & Green

Snowshoe walking in Prato Valentino: Anello Verdomana

  • Active & Green

Learn from nature in the lowlands of the Po Valley

Take a lesson, and much more, from the educational farms on the Lombardy Plains, learning about the environmental and cultural wealth of our countryside.
Natura maestra nella Bassa del Po
  • Active & Green

The trail of memories and labours

This trail was dedicated to the memory of the inhabitants of Castione who, in the past generations, walked along this path carrying heavy pack baskets. The path linked the highest part of the town to the valley floor and allowed people to carry out farm works.
  • Active & Green

Cremona: an amazing town!

Cruises on the river, an extraordinary way to discover Cremona
La Motonave Mattei
  • Active & Green

Hiking with kids in Lombardy - Trails for tourists and athletes

Hiking is an excellent way to enjoy exercise, and Lombardy has some amazing trails for kids and adults to explore in winter. Find out more.
  • Active & Green

Valsassina and the Grigne

From one-day trips that anyone can enjoy, to climbing on the vertical walls of the Grigne, through to splendid hikes leading up to the mountain refuges
Valsassina and the Grigne
  • 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

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

Discovering the Big Benches in the province of Pavia

How to reconnect with childhood by rediscovering the landscape with the Big Benches!
Big Bench in provincia di Pavia
  • Active & Green

Coolcation and Adventures in Valtellina

Six outdoor experiences in the Valtellina Alps to get out in nature while you beat the summer heat.
Ph: I Mille
  • 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

Visconti park

The medieval splendor come alive in today's Pavia.
Visconti Park
  • Active & Green