Paternoster is a village on the Cape West Coast that just oozes charm and a quaint appeal. Maybe it’s the white-washed houses; maybe it’s the long stretches of sandy beaches. Maybe it’s just the pace, which never seems to pick up beyond a gentle amble to match the rhythm of a seaside stroll.
Whatever it is, there’s no doubt that Paternoster is a gorgeous destination for a weekend getaway. It’s one of the oldest towns on this stretch of the South African shores and, although it has a laid-back vibe and quiet setting, offers a fair amount of things to do and see.
Here are some of our favourite places to stay, adventures to have, and restaurants to enjoy some of the freshest seafood around:
SLEEP
Paternoster might be small, but it has loads of accommodation – both on the beachfront and slightly further into the village itself.
For Stunning Views
Paternoster Lodge
This four-star guest house has seven elegant suites, each with its own gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean. Their under-floor heating, en-suite bathrooms, and satellite TVs make the suites irresistible after a day spent on the beach or kayaking with penguins in the waves. The on-site restaurant also has 180-degree views of the ocean and the unspoilt beach. Its menu is comprehensive and there is a variety of local South African wines on offer.
Paternoster Dunes Guest House
Because it’s quite literally perched on the beach of Paternoster, this guest house is even more spectacular. Each room has a private patio and direct access to the white sands and blue waters on its doorstep. What’s more, the communal lounge, library, patio and bar all boast exquisite views of the salty blue. Watch the sun dip below the horizon while sipping on a freshly brewed cuppa or a glass of a local wine.
D.V. Engelhijs
Long walks along the beach, sipping cocktails while watching spectacular sunsets, and the sounds of the crashing waves – this is the D.V. Engelhijs experience. Each of its two units has an inviting queen-size bed, en-suite bathroom, and patio with pretty views. The braai area is the ideal place to relax and catch up after a day exploring the village and its waters. The suites are particularly special for the unique art pieces found in each.
Something A Little Quirky
The Wigwam at Farr Out
While Farr Out has a number of accommodation options, the Wigwam Rising Moon stands out for being different. This luxury tent is perfect for two guests and is set apart from the main house for an added sense of solitude. Thanks to the skylight, guests can enjoy some incredible star gazing from inside the wigwam. There is a spacious shower, electric blanket, fan and Wi-Fi here to ensure that guests get to enjoy a few added luxuries from the quirky lodgings.
Sea Shack
The 10 ‘shacks’ are comfortable and conveniently situated in the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve (just five kilometres from Paternoster) and right on the sandy shores of the ocean. They each have their own look and feel, and are completely off the grid. Thanks to solar power and gas, guests can still enjoy a hot shower. There is a communal kitchen (fully equipped) and a fire pit, where visitors love to get to know one another.
Other Fab Spots
ah! Guest House
Whether it’s the inviting fireplace on a chilly evening or the sea views on a summer’s day that entices you, there’s no doubt that ah! guest house will make for lasting memories. It’s close to the beach and the restaurants, and the luxury accommodation is ideal for couples and individuals that just want to indulge in some quality time in gorgeous surrounds.
Strandlopertjie
The cosy self-catering units of Strandlopertjie are close to the beaches of Paternoster and have all of the comforts of home. Each of the three suites sleeps two guests and one is wheelchair-friendly for added convenience. Two have braai facilities and one also has an indoor fireplace.
EAT
Paternoster’s cuisine is on another level. In fact, some of these restaurants are acclaimed the world over for their incredible dishes and unique approaches to flavours, textures and all-round deliciousness.
Gaaitjie
Here, fresh ingredients and even fresher seafood come together in some moreish magic. Angelfish bobotie and traditional vetkoek filled with peri-peri chicken livers are just some of the mouth-watering dishes on offer. Of course, they’re best enjoyed with the incredible ocean views.
Voorstrandt Restaurant
Situated right on the sand of the shore, this restaurant is ideal for hungry travellers that want to smell the salt of the sea as they dine on calamari, fish ‘n chips, and many other traditional favourites. The building itself is well over 100 years old, lending it a charm of its own.
The Noisy Oyster
The menu changes every day, but diners can be sure that they’ll get fresh, delicious seafood. Of course, the decadent desserts, local wines and craft gins don’t hurt either.
Oep ve Koep
This inviting coffee shop is ideal for a quick cuppa and a catch up with locals.
DO
Paternoster has the perfect combo – it’s quiet and serene, but there is also plenty to do for adventurers, water-babies, foodies, or those that love the outdoors. Here are some of our recommendations:
Go Kayaking with Penguins
Head onto the water and paddle past the waves to watch the resident penguins play, swim and approach you curiously. You can spot whales, seals and dolphins in the water too.
Explore the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve
Home to a spectacular rugged coastline and the Cape Columbine lighthouse, this reserve is special. Its fauna and flora are incredible and the lighthouse is the last manual one around.
Other nearby Attractions
Paternoster is a stunning beach destination that demands time spent soaking up rays on the white sands or heading into the waves for lots of fun.
If you’re happy to visit the surrounding towns and villages, you could add the West Coast Fossil Park, Cape West Coast Biosphere Reserve, Bird Island Nature Reserve, Rocherpan Nature Reserve and watersports on the Langebaan Lagoon to your itinerary.
INCLUDING SA-VENUES.COM IN YOUR PATERNOSTER HOLIDAY
SA-Venues.com has loads of options when it comes to finding accommodation in Paternoster. What’s more, we’ve listed local and nearby accommodation, activities and attractions. This means that you can plan your entire West Coast holiday from one, easy-to-use website.
