PATERNOSTER
AN HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE WITH OLD WORLD CHARM
The oldest fishing village on the West Coast, past and present meet in Paternoster. Life here is closely connected to the sea, with fishermen heading out in colourful traditional wooden boats to catch snoek in winter and crayfish in summer. Visitors can buy their fish fresh of the boats as they come into shore.
Meaning ‘our father’ in Latin, Paternoster is watched over the stoic Cape Columbine lighthouse. It stands tall and white in the nature reserve with the same name, and which extends all the way along the rocky coastline to include quirkily named Tietiesbaai. The reserve is a favourite camping ground for summer holidaymakers who want to be close to nature and the water’s edge.
About 90 minutes’ drive from Cape Town, Paternoster epitomises an authentic and traditional West Coast lifestyle, and local people are well loved for their humor, generosity, and hospitality. Surrounded by fynbos, wheat fields in winter, and wildflowers in Spring, Paternoster is also a favourite amongst snorkelers, experienced divers, kite surfers and flyers, hikers, bikers and kayakers. Virtually all year there are whales and dolphins to watch, and bidring is excellent for endangered black oystercatchers and over 200 other species.
talented local artists live and work here too, their painting, sculpture, pottery, and photography on exhibition at various galleries and shops in the village.
Foodies will also be spoilt for choice with renowned chefs presiding over excellent restaurants, some right on the beach. Sunsets over the sea long walks on the 8 km long, white, sandy beach of Langstrand, seal and penguin watching, evening fires and seafood braais are just a few of Paternoster’s enticing attractions. Or climb the lighthouse for a panoramic view over the village and beyond.