Set on a pink shoreline littered with granite boulders and multicoloured dinghies stands Paternoster, one of the oldest settlements on the Western Coast. Meaning “Our Father”, the story goes that Paternoster derived its name from the prayers of a crew of Catholic Portuguese sailors who found themselves shipwrecked nearby. Today, it still retains its sleepy feel and slow-paced style of living, but its coastal charm and arcane white-washed fisherman's cottages, have drawn in a cluster of city-slickers looking to 'get away from it all'. Deserted beaches, shell-strewn sands, blue skies, and calm, if not a little chilly, waters - it's clear to see where to attraction lies. Drawn by its charms, this influx of Capetonians have brought with them the best in urban influences: namely artisanal coffee, and a collection of great places to eat and sleep. Our collection of the best places to stay in Paternoster offer a little bit of luxury to ensure a truly relaxing break in this sleepy fisherman's town.

An area of extraordinary and unrefined natural beauty, the town is a haven for nature lovers. The Cape Colombian Nature Reserve is just a five-minute drive away, with the gorgeous Bay of Tietiesbaai a perfect place to go kayaking or surfing (it also boasts the last manned lighthouse in South Africa). The area is home to 250 species of bird, with seabirds like seagulls, oystercatchers and sacred ibis using the wide white sand beaches as their breeding ground.

If you are in Paternoster between July and September, you will be lucky enough to witness its annual transformation. After the first spring rain, the land undergoes a metamorphosis as bright and colourful flowers bloom and burst through the soil and sand. It is easy to see why artists find so much inspiration in this far-flung fishing village and these artworks can be viewed at the several galleries scattered around the town.

What not to miss

• The Cape Colombian Nature Reserve is only five minutes away by car. At the Beach Camp, you can go kayaking or surfing in the Bay of Tietiesbaai. There are also some great hiking spots in this reserve too.
• Or why not take a stroll up to Cape Columbine lighthouse.
• Holidaymakers flock to Paternoster in droves to see the dolphins and whales swimming from the shoreline. It is a truly magnificent sight to see, and you can also hire out a boat and tour the waves in search of a closer inspection.
• With over 250 species of birds in the area, the town is beloved by birdwatchers, particularly during the breeding season, when fleets of oystercatchers and seagulls descend upon the white sand beaches.
• With a choice of superb restaurants, whether you're looking for a hearty fish and chips or local favourite, angelfish bobotie. Or for something a little more refined, try The Noisy Oyster.
• The West Coast Fossil Park is a must-see. Great for kids and adults, they offer guided tours of the dig sites. A fun and informative day out.
• Windsurfing, walking, or just sitting and watch the world go by: all are possible on Paternoster's pristine beach.
• Pick up some snacks at Oep vir Koep, a well-known landmark in the area. Here you can buy local delicacies such as fig preserve, snoek, bokkoms, and koeksusters (a sweet pastry).
• Explore Paternoster's long expanse of beach with Drikus Horse Riding.

Owing to its proximity to Cape Town the best places to stay in Paternoster do tend to get booked up fast so we advise you do your planning well in advance.

The best places to stay in Paternoster

For a great value stay

• Excellent value, Smugglers' Cottage provides a cosy and quirky nautical themed stay.
• Housed in a former fisherman's cottage, Hoekie B&B is excellent value. Outdoor massages, serenaded by the sound of the ocean are a particular highlight!

For a coastal stay

• So close you can feel the salt spray on your skin at OysterCatcher's Haven.
• Steps from the town's main beach, Paternoster Dunes Boutique Guest House couldn't be better located for a beach stay.

For a boutique stay

• Strandloper Ocean Boutique Hotel is nestled by the sea with 14 secluded whitewashed designer suites. This is a beautiful little hotel with a fabulous restaurant. Adult-only, it is ideal for couples looking for a romantic escape.
• Intimate, beautifully decorated, Linhof Boutique Guest House is a design lover's dream.

For a spa break

• Abalone House & Spa is a fabulous 5* property with a sumptuous restaurant, spoiling spa, rooftop jacuzzi and 10 boutique suites. An incredibly relaxing, tranquil atmosphere.

Travel information

• The best time to go is between November and January, when the temperature averages at about 19 degrees. If you want to go when the flowers are blooming then plan your trip in July.
• Ninety miles from Cape Town, travellers can fly to Cape Town International Airport, from where taxis are easily booked.
• Alternatively, if you want to rent a car we recommend you contact our partner Rentalcars.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to include the best places to stay in the Western Cape.
• Or contact one of our Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Paternoster