Nature
Paternkofel
Paternkofel (Monte Paterno)
Paternkofel is a peak in the Sesto Dolomites, on the border between South Tyrol and the province of Belluno. It sits within the same limestone group as Tre Cime di Lavaredo, and most visitors reach it not to summit but to walk the trails that circle its base, with views back toward the Tre Cime towers and across the surrounding rock faces.
Getting there
There's no single "city centre" for this area — the usual approach is by car from a base town in the Sesto/Dobbiaco area up to the Auronzo toll road, which ends near a car park (Rifugio Auronzo) that serves as the trailhead for this whole group. Driving up from the valley typically takes around 30–45 minutes depending on your starting point, plus time waiting at the toll gate in busy periods.
Time to allow
Walking around the base on the main trail network, with stops for views, generally takes a half day. Add more time if you plan to continue on to nearby refuges or extend the loop toward other peaks in the group.
When to go
This is high-altitude terrain, so it's only accessible in the warmer months; snow can linger into early summer and return by autumn. Start early — the access road and car park get congested by mid-morning in July and August, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, which makes early starts safer as well as quieter.
Combine it with
- Tre Cime di Lavaredo (1.5km) — the iconic three peaks, reachable on the same trail network from the same car park.
- Zwölferkofel (3.6km) — another peak in the group, visible along longer loop routes.
- Dreischusterspitze (4.6km) — for those extending the walk further into the range.
- Rienz (1.3km) — the river running through the valley below, more relevant if you're based in the lower valley towns.
Updated September 20, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
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