Paternoster – the jewel of the West Coast Cape
In one small corner of South Africa’s West Coast, early Khoi people called ‘strandlopers’ (beach walkers) lived simply and harmoniously – at one with the elements.
Today, the elements are central to the pleasures of those who visit Paternoster.
Coming to Paternoster reminds you of the truly important things in life, where you find that special space to exhale, heal and rejuvenate.
Moulded by generations of fishing families, the village’s quaint character seems unconcerned with the passing of time. Instead, the tides and changing seasons guide those who live by the rhythmic ebb and flow of nature.
One thing’s certain, though. It won’t be long before you, too, succumb to its charms – basking in the many sensual pleasures of the bay… perhaps a contemplative moment sipping on a glass of wine at a beach restaurant, a browse for the unusual at one of the characteristic, whitewashed stores or a lively barter at the weekly fisherman’s market.
What to do in Paternoster
Activities:
Explore walks or enjoy horse riding on the long, lazy stretches of endless sandy beaches.
Visit the local fishermen on the beach as they return with their early-morning catch of the day. Be awe-inspired by whale- and dolphin-watching during season (July to December).
Colourful vistas make memorable moments for those visiting during the area’s world-renowned flower season (August to October). Blooming wild flowers transform the landscape into a breathtaking carpet of floral colour, boasting 1200 species of indigenous plants.
Saltwater-soaked adventures await, from kayaking to windsurfing, kite surfing, swimming and surfing. Or take a boat trip to visit the nearby penguin colony.
Chilly winter nights are designed for sipping on a good glass of red wine next to a crackling fire, with the roar and crash of a stormy ocean as comforting background sound.
Savour a range of West Coast seafood delicacies. Prepare your own meal or visit one of the rustic, local restaurants.
Please also consult our guest directory at reception for more detailed information.
ACTIVITIES IN THE NEARBY SURROUNDS
Paternoster’s central location enables you to make day-trips to surrounding towns such as Vredenburg, Saldanha, Langebaan, St Helena Bay, Stompneus Bay, Velddrif and Darling.
Cape Columbine Nature Reserve and Lighthouse
Visit the nearby Cape Columbine Nature Reserve, situated 5km from Paternoster. The lighthouse at Tietiesbaai in the Cape Columbine Reserve is one of the country’s last manned lighthouses and worth a visit.
The West Coast Fossil Park
The West Coast Fossil Park is a short drive away and will provide you with a unique on-site fossil experience. About 200 species of invertebrate and vertebrate animals have been recorded at the site. These include over 80 mammals and at least 60 birds. At the Varswater Formation, the variety is matched by the astonishing quantity of fossils.