Chas Everitt International - Property in Paternoster

The source of the name Paternoster (Latin for "Our Father") remains unknown. One explanation is that the name is associated with the heartfelt prayers prayed by shipwrecked Portuguese sailors. Another explanation is that it takes its name from the fishing tackle known as paternoster. (TV Bulpin, Discovering South Africa (second revised edition 1980))
The first maritime survey of this part of the coast was done in the 1790's by Francis Renier Duminy, Captain of the Dutch East India Company ship, De Meermin.

Although life in Paternoster is still very much associated with the sea and fishing industry (Paternoster Fisheries), it is to this historic fishing village that the traveler comes to relax. Quaint, whitewashed cottages nestle gently on the sloping hill called Kliprug.

CAPE COLUMBINE NATURE RESERVE (TIETIESBAAI)

The reserve covers an area of 263 ha along the rocky stretch of coastline with numerous inlets and coves. This area was declared a nature reserve in December 1973. The vegetation of typical West Coast veld ranges from the well-known West Coast fynbos to Karoo succulent. In spring (August to October) the area is covered in a bright tapestry of wild flowers. This reserve boasts the last manually controlled lighthouse to be built in South Africa. It is usually the first South African lighthouse to be seen by ships coming from Europe. The lighthouse was built in 1936 on Castle Rock. The light stands at a height of 80m above sea level and casts a beam, which is visible for about 50km.

The significant white boulders, where great humped rocks crouch around little rocky bays, make this unspoiled gem one of the most beautiful beaches on the West Coast. The vast beach, washed by a fresh Atlantic Ocean can satisfy the enthusiastic kayaker in a safe paddling environment.

Apart from dolphins and whales, the coastline, together with an abundance of mussels, is very famous for the West Coast Rock Lobster (Jasus Lalandii), Abalone and other seafood. The peaceful surroundings that typify this place of "Red Gold" also offer pristine hiking trails and unforgettable sunsets that slowly vanish in brilliant colours

General
The picturesque fishing town of Paternoster promise a relaxing stay accompanied by stunning sunsets and seafood cuisine to choose from.

Paternoster, meaning "Our Father" ostensibly took its name from the heartfelt prayers of shipwrecked Portuguese sailors.

The Columbine Lighthouse, which is the first lighthouse to be sighted by ships coming from Europe, is situated at Tieties Bay in the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve. Declared a nature reserve in 1973, the reserve boasts with colourful displays of wildflowers in spring and miles of natural beaches and spectacular views from the lighthouse.

You can also experience the delicacies of the West Coast and have a taste of well-known seafood like crayfish, snoek and many other delicacies to choose from.

For the nature lovers the area offers spectacular hiking trails along the scenic coastline with varying lengths. The area also caters for the adventure seekers and offers sea kayaking, fishing excursions and diving.

The town has very strong fisherman architecture with a preserved atmosphere of a fishing community of a bygone era.

When visiting Paternoster you will be welcomed by the friendly locals and you will have an immediate feel of relaxation. Stroll along the 8km of unspoiled white beaches feeling, seeing and smelling the gem of the ocean.

In the spring the area is covered in bright tapestries of flowers among others "Bokbaai Vygie ", "Pienk Lewertjie", "Krulblaar Gousblom" and the extremely rare and endemic "Paternoster Froetang" (Romulea barkerae)

Shopping experience of a lifetime
What better way to go sightseeing while visiting the numerous curio shops and purchasing memorabilia to take home.

Romantic sunsets
In a market saturated with travelers in search of new experiences and uncluttered destinations, where the yearning to get closer to nature is becoming stronger, Paternoster has a lot to offer tourists.

Stretches of sandy beaches
Long breath taking stretches of sandy beaches will make pictures memories. Start or end the day with a walks on our magnificent beaches.

Accommodation
If you need to relax you can break away to Paternoster at any time throughout the year and enjoy the facilities that cater for everyone.

Paternoster offers award winning as well as star graded accommodation and facilities for the adventurous at heart.

You can choose from a wide variety of facilities amongst other a hotel that is more than 100 years old, guesthouses, self-catering, bed and breakfasts and basic tent facilities.

Some of the facilities boast with splendid views of the coastline and are situated close to the many activities Paternoster has to offer.

Conference venues
Mixing business with pleasure.

The hotel offers conferencing facilities.

Attractions
Explore the Columbine Lighthouse and its intriguing foghorn will surely amaze you.

The Columbine Lighthouse is the first one to be seen by ships coming from Europe and is only 5km from Paternoster. It was commissioned in 1936 and derives its name from the barque Columbine, which was wrecked there in 1829.

The Lighthouse is built in the nature reserve, which consists mainly of sandveld, a combination of coastal fynbos and succulents.

Adventure and Sport
Paternoster also caters for the adventurous at heart and promises an experience of a lifetime

If you seek the ultimate adventure, you can do scuba and wreck diving or go on traditional fishing trips. You can also do site seeing by boat, watching whales, dolphins, seals and penguins or on land abalone and oyster farming as well as seasonal flowers. You can also do sea kayaking or mountain biking in the area.

Dinning and Entertainment
Dine in style or sweet simplicity - whichever suits you best.

Paternoster boasts three choice restaurants which serve up local seafood, salads and steaks. Do as the locals do and indulge in a late afternoon seafood braai. Buy your fish fresh from market - better still, experience the thrill of landing your supper through your newly-acquired fishing talents!

Visitor Services
When visiting Paternoster pop in at the curio shops that capture the West Coast flair by offering South African handcrafts

The town offers many interesting shops that sell anything from hammocks and kites to jewellery and honey. Emergency services are available including police, ambulance and the NSRI for sea rescues. Banking facilities and main shops are in the nearest town, which is Vredenburg and only 15 minutes away.