Uncovering the Wonders of Paternoster on the West Coast

Consider fishermen and fishing boats, hardy fynbos growing on white dunes, and wind-dried bokkoms (dried fish). Paternoster, one of the oldest villages in the West Coast Region, perfectly encapsulates this sun-kissed fantasy.

Each building has the same whitewashed exterior. Among the sea of white, there are splashes of color, such as the bright yellow shutters of the Town Library and the engine-red front door of Die Winkel op Paternoster. Or even the lacquered sheen of the toffee apples that many children are observed eating in the sun. There is not much going on here, but isn't that the point? In addition to the long, unspoiled beaches, the restaurants attract the most visitors. This seaside community is a gourmet hotspot with at least five exceptional restaurants.

Having resisted the temptation to purchase a seaside memento, we return to the salty sunshine and head towards Paternoster Square. It cannot be missed. You can find pickled chilli mussels, bokkoms, jams, and even T-shirts in its briny depths, which are adorned with green fishing nets, large orange life buoys, and rusted maritime antiques. Across the street is the Stone Fish Studio, a beautiful dry-stone building that houses the original works of artists such as Hennie Meyer, Theo Paul Vorster, and Judy Woodbourne.

The Cape Columbine Nature Reserve is just five minutes away. The Beach Camp offers kayaking and surfing facilities and is located near the renowned Tietiesbaai Bay. The Reserve contains South Africa's last manned lighthouse. In 1936, it was built on Castle Rock. We pass by its red beacon and enter the thorny veld. Dune Spinach, a local delicacy, grows wild here, and the numerous coves, inlets, and bays teem with life. Along the coast leading to the main beach, you will find fishermen at the gutting stations selling fresh fish and crayfish at very reasonable prices. On the way out, the streets are lined with wire hearts strung with shells, and Cape Town is only a 90-minute drive away.

Article Courtesy of www.sahistory.org.za/place/paternoster-west-coast