In the heart of Oltrepò Pavese
Around the Castle, the medieval village of Varzi preserves its ancient identity intact.
Walking through the center means crossing centuries of traditions and rediscovering a slow, authentic rhythm, made of encounters and simple gestures.
Strolling through Varzi means entering the heart of Oltrepò Pavese: small squares, hidden courtyards, Romanesque churches, taverns that seem frozen in time. Every step through its cobbled streets is a journey through time.
SALT ROAD AND ITINERARIES
From Varzi to the sea
The historic Salt Road connected the Po Valley to the Ligurian Sea, allowing for centuries the passage of merchants, pilgrims and travelers. Salt, precious as gold, traveled through valleys and hills, crossing fortified villages like Varzi, where local lords offered refreshment and protection.
Today the path lives again as a trail through woods, silent panoramas and ancient villages, a journey that weaves history, nature and timeless landscapes.
From the Castle depart itineraries that allow you to:
- walk among silent panoramas and hidden glimpses
- follow trails suitable for trekking or slow walks
- discover ancient villages along the valley
ATTRACTIONS IN THE SURROUNDINGS
Beauty and tradition
Oltrepò Pavese is a generous and silent land, made of hills, woods, vineyards and villages that seem suspended in time. In the surroundings of Varzi there are numerous beauties to discover:
- Historic villages: in addition to Varzi, there are medieval villages like Fortunago and Zavattarello, included among the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy”.
- Churches and sanctuaries: not far from Varzi we find the Abbey of Sant’Alberto di Butrio (Ponte Nizza), a medieval jewel immersed in the woods.
- Vineyards and wineries: the area is part of the “Oltrepò Pavese Metodo Classico” DOC, ideal for those who love wine and the nature of the vine-covered hills.
- Nature itineraries: panoramic trails, sections of the historic Salt Road and hilly landscapes perfect to explore on foot or by bike.
- Traditional events: festivals, local festivals (like the Varzi Salami Festival), craft markets and historical events enrich the tourist calendar.
In this territory you don’t just observe: you live, among postcard panoramas, genuine flavors and traditions that remain authentic.
SLOW‑TRAVEL
What to do and what to see
In Oltrepò the journey caresses all the senses: observing, listening and letting yourself be surprised. Varzi and its surroundings offer experiences far from the beaten paths, giving harmony and an authentic sense of discovery.
Historical stage on the Salt Road: Varzi → San Ponzo Semola
- It starts from Varzi, along a stretch that follows the ancient Salt Road.
- The route crosses beech and chestnut woods and sections of ancient merchant trail.
- You arrive at the Hermitage of Sant’Alberto di Butrio, a spiritual place immersed in nature.
- It is a trek of about 11 km with about 430 m of elevation gain.
Uphill itinerary: Varzi → Monte Chiappo
- Historical route also to be traveled by bike along the Salt Road, from Varzi towards the High Oltrepò.
- Length: ~24 km.
- Significant elevation gain (about +1,485 m) for those who are trained, but the panoramas pay off: valleys, ridges and woods.
- Excellent for cyclists or hikers who want a physical and scenic experience.
Greenway Voghera ↔ Varzi
- Cycle-pedestrian path along what was a disused railway.
- It starts gently from Voghera, crosses countryside, vineyards and hills, up to Varzi.
- Possibility of detours towards villages, historical sites or secondary hiking trails.
- If you are looking for a “slow but long” itinerary, it is perfect: suitable for walkers, cyclists or families.
Castellar‑Pian della Mora Loop (winter excursion)
- This itinerary is also used for walks organized by local associations.
- It starts from Castellaro (near Varzi), climbs the hills and reaches Pian della Mora.
- In winter it is particularly suggestive: the snowy woods, the silence and the hill panoramas offer a fairy-tale atmosphere.
