Discover Paternoster: A Charming Day Trip from Cape Town
Capetonians are fortunate for many reasons, including their stunning surroundings, rich history, and vibrant culture. Another perk is the variety of day-trip escapes available. With a full day and some fuel, the West Coast's wonders are waiting to be explored.
Paternoster tops the list. As one of South Africa's last traditional fishing villages, Paternoster is charming and romantic without trying too hard. Despite modern changes, the village maintains its close ties to fishing and the sea. Brightly painted fishing boats dot the beach, and roadside crayfish sales are a common sight.
While development has increased in recent years, the whitewashed houses and stark, island-like beauty of the landscape contribute to Paternoster's unique character. The town preserves some of the bygone era's fishing community atmosphere.
The Paternoster Hotel, originally built in 1863 and converted into a hotel in 1940, remains unchanged. Today, it offers ten sea-view rooms and a fantastic restaurant. The hotel is also known for the Panty Bar, which once served as the local jail.
Paternoster, named after The Lord's Prayer, has a rich history. On October 23, 1910, the Lisboa ran aground at Sailor's Reef, just off Paternoster's coast. This incident is the first recorded use of radiotelegraphy to summon help by a distressed ship on the South African coast.
Paternoster offers various attractions. Whales and dolphins frequent these waters for ten months of the year, providing spectacular views. In spring, flower enthusiasts flock to Paternoster to visit the nearby Columbine Nature Reserve. After the season's first rains, the landscape transforms into a colorful display of indigenous flowers, typically between July and September.
Tietiesbaai, part of the Columbine Nature Reserve, is a popular camping spot for December visitors. Don't miss the Cape Columbine Lighthouse, the last manned lighthouse built on the South African coast.
Whether it's sea kayaking, whale-watching, penguin-spotting, or long walks on sandy white beaches, Paternoster offers a year-round escape from city life, just 90 minutes from Cape Town!
Enjoy a typical West Coast Snoek Braai during your visit. Drizzle a fresh snoek with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and baste with a mixture of apricot jam, lemon juice, and chopped garlic. Cook on a foil base over the fire until the flesh turns white and starts to bubble. Serve with a baked sweet potato or bread with butter and jam for a delicious meal!
