Via del Sale – along the ancient trade route to the Ligurian Sea
Tour description
This impressive long-distance hike follows one of Italy's oldest trade routes – the historic Salt Road. What was once used by merchants and mule drivers to transport ‘white gold’ from the sea to the interior is now a diverse cultural and natural journey across the Apennines.
A change of worlds every day
The journey begins in medieval Varzi, a charming little town surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills. From there, old mule tracks climb up into the mountains of the Apennines. The landscape changes constantly: from dense chestnut forests to wide grassy slopes to barren peaks offering spectacular views at over 1,400 metres above sea level. On these high-altitude trails, you will experience a feeling of freedom – the air is clear, the paths are quiet, and the views are breathtaking. With every step, the history of the travellers is present who have gone this path for centuries.
Mountain villages and hospitality
We will stay in family-run guesthouses and two mountain huts, where time passes more slowly. The hosts will welcome us with warm simplicity and regional specialities such as cheese from the Val d'Aveto, mushroom dishes or handmade pasta. The towns and villages still retain the original soul of Italy – far away from the tourist centres.
The Apennines at their most beautiful
Crossing Monte Tre Croci is the highlight of the tour: here, the vastness of the mountains opens up – and on a clear day, you can see the first glimmer of the sea. On the last day of hiking, the trail leads through the Monte di Portofino Nature Park, where Mediterranean scents and views of the turquoise coast accompany the descent. In Camogli – where salt was once loaded onto ships – the journey ends in one of Liguria's most charming fishing villages. The moment you dip your feet into the sea is symbolic: you have walked the entire length of the Salt Road yourself.
16.05.2026 – 22.05.2026
This hiking week is fully booked.
I'm planning this long-distance hike in 5 instead 7 days for autumn or spring 2027: dates on request.
Length & duration
Stages of 2.5 – 5.5 hours, 7–19 km long, total 85 km | Ascents/descents 310–1'000 m | Daypack only
Difficulty
Moderate fitness on good paths, T2
Services
6 nights' accommodation, 4 with half board and packed lunch | Train ticket from/to Chiasso | Luggage transport to stage destinations | Professional organisation & information on site
Cost
7 days for CHF 1'590.00 in a double room, reduction if more than 6 people
Not included
Travel to Chiasso | Drinks in hotels & alberghi | Dinner in Uscio and Camogli.
Travel
Public transport, as the start and finish locations are far apart
Registration & payment
Dealine & payment by 8 March 2026 | Later bookings on request & surcharge for the reservations | Read AGB Hiking Weeks
Equipment
Equipment list & detailed programme to follow after payment.
Meeting point
Chiasso, or by arrangement with participants.
End & return journey
Friday evening, 22 May in Chiasso | Extension of stay in Camogli possible on request.
Hiking guide
Markus Unterfinger
Phone: 076 419 21 10
markus@wanderidee.ch
This tour is already fully booked, so we can't take any more registrations.
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