Cimon della Pala Mountains
Prominent Dolomites peak popular among climbers
The Cimon della Pala rises in the Pale di San Martino massif of the Dolomites, favoured by climbers and hikers for its sheer limestone face and panoramic alpine routes.
Cimon della Pala at a Glance#
Address: Cimon della Pala, Pale di San Martino group, Dolomites, Veneto, Italy
Admission: Free (access dependent on hiking routes; climbing permits vary by local authority)
About Cimon della Pala#
Cimon della Pala is a prominent Dolomite peak in the Pale di San Martino group, noted for its steep, sharply defined summit profile and striking limestone faces. Its distinctive shape makes it one of the best-known peaks in the group.
Climbers and hillwalkers visit for alpine routes and panoramic views; the peak dominates views from the valley around San Martino di Castrozza and forms a focal point for photography and mountaineering in the area. The summit reaches 3,184 metres and is visible across much of the Pale di San Martino.
The mountain is part of the Dolomites, a Mesozoic carbonate massif formed by ancient reef and marine deposits and shaped by glacial and erosional processes. It has been a classic objective for climbers since the 19th century and features in local mountaineering literature.
Located in the Pale di San Martino sector of the Dolomites in northeastern Italy, the peak lies near the resort village of San Martino di Castrozza and is accessible from trails and mountain huts in the range.
- Elevation: Summit elevation is 3,184 metres, making it one of the most prominent peaks in the Pale di San Martino group of the Dolomites.
How to Get to Cimon della Pala#
Access is usually from the Val Venegia or the Rolle Pass; the nearest larger towns with services are Primiero San Martino di Castrozza (approx. 20-30 km). Local mountain huts (rifugi) serve as base points for ascents.
Tips for Visiting Cimon della Pala#
- Attempt the ascent only with proper alpine gear and a certified mountain guide; the route to Cimon della Pala involves exposed ridges.
- Start early: weather in the Dolomites can change rapidly and afternoon storms are common in summer.
Best Time to Visit Cimon della Pala#
Summer months are the normal climbing season, but always check local mountain forecasts.
Weather & Climate near Cimon della Pala#
Cimon della Pala's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -11°C to 9°C. Abundant rainfall (1016 mm/year), wettest in July.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Poor | -11° - -6° | -16° | 59 mm | partly cloudy | 89% | 5.5 m/s | 0.1 low | 8.9h |
| February | Poor | -11° - -7° | -16° | 56 mm | partly cloudy | 90% | 5.0 m/s | 0.3 low | 10.2h |
| March | Poor | -10° - -5° | -14° | 68 mm | partly cloudy | 84% | 5.0 m/s | 0.7 moderate | 11.8h |
| April | Poor | -8° - -3° | -11° | 79 mm | overcast | 80% | 4.8 m/s | 1.0 high | 13.4h |
| May | Poor | -3° - 2° | -5° | 94 mm | overcast | 79% | 4.2 m/s | 1.4 high | 14.8h |
| June | Poor | 1° - 6° | 0° | 110 mm | overcast | 78% | 3.9 m/s | 1.6 very high | 15.6h |
| July | Acceptable | 3° - 9° | 3° | 118 mm | partly cloudy | 77% | 3.7 m/s | 1.7 very high | 15.2h |
| August | Acceptable | 3° - 9° | 3° | 112 mm | partly cloudy | 79% | 3.4 m/s | 1.4 high | 14.0h |
| September | Poor | 1° - 5° | -1° | 91 mm | partly cloudy | 82% | 3.9 m/s | 1.0 moderate | 12.4h |
| October | Poor | -2° - 2° | -5° | 84 mm | partly cloudy | 85% | 4.5 m/s | 0.5 moderate | 10.7h |
| November | Poor | -7° - -3° | -11° | 84 mm | partly cloudy | 88% | 5.0 m/s | 0.2 low | 9.3h |
| December | Poor | -9° - -5° | -14° | 61 mm | partly cloudy | 88% | 5.5 m/s | 0.1 low | 8.5h |
