Paternoster

Paternoster quirky travel destinationThe Alternative West Coast

Paternoster is far removed from the sophisticated Camps Bay scene or even the more down-to-earth Kalk Bay. It is much smaller and wilder with a long, long stretch of sandy beach, but it’s still the Atlantic Ocean so swimming is not for sissies, even on a hot summer’s day!

7Sn2gEFzvEu4nr0e45qI_Uu_roLxqU6ooPiSVZ3Cs-IOnce a small fishing village it started being developed when quotas were cut and the fishermen were paid out for their properties. There has been some sort of architectural “look” adhered to, which keeps the town charming and although it has grown substantially over the years it is still very picturesque.

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To eat:

Noisy Oyster – found in the centre of the village as you drive in. It boasts a lovely courtyard at the back (complete with fireplaces for winter) and decorated with chinese lanterns which add a festive feel. The food is delicious and well presented and there is a substantial wine list with some off-beat choices. Best to book over weekends.

Noisy Oyster
Noisy Oyster

Voorstrandt – the red roof building that has been here for ever! Their situation is enviable as the deck leads directly onto the beach – undoubtedly the most popular place with tourists and serves great fresh fish. Sitting on the deck feels like being in a taverna on a Greek island and a great place to while away an afternoon!

Food at Wolfgat

Wolfgat – The chef, Kobus van der Merwe, is an acclaimed South African chef. His food is classified as Strandveld cuisine, specialising in sea food and complementing this with locally harvested seaweed and seasonal vegetables. Lunch (Weds – Sun) and dinner (Fri & Sat) are BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.

To visit:

There are many quirky, interesting shops and galleries to stroll around – our favourite is:

Stone Fish Studio – on the main road, this lovely gallery also offers wi-fi and coffee. The owner is a ceramic artist, who was busy modelling clay when we were there, and showcases her work alongside a few other artists and sculptors. Beautiful things and great space!

To stay:

There are many different types of accommodation in this village depending on what you’re looking for. The first port of call we would recommend is the tourist office which is situated at Hotel Square, St Augustine Road – closed on Saturday afternoons and Sunday.

0p349nHIjKpc1f-nUk-4JvOXxk2EobhfgFU_3Fq005cOffbeat Seaside

Paternoster still retains a large fishing community and of course it’s possible to buy fresh fish off the boats and crayfish in season.

The village is a great destination for romantic, moonlit walks on the beach or just to chill and eat the freshest of fish at one of the fab restaurants. Worth a night or two to take in this quaint town and to inhale the sea breezes and salt air.

For further info look at their website

 

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