We spent a glorious weekend at the beautiful 4-star rated Soli Deo Gloria Studio Apartment in Paternoster, in the Western Cape. The apartment is part of Paternoster Getaways upmarket collection of accommodation units. It is on the beach (Mosselbank) – right on the beach. The unit is huge, with a beautifully appointed bedroom area (king size bed, extra length by the way) with full kitchen – large fridge and full-on self-catering facilities. See video on TikTok https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMBnwfMfb/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIysdsqqZUU/
The ample size bathroom with walk-in shower is wheelchair friendly, with hand rails and other safety measures. The unit was the national winner of the Best Universal Accessible Accommodation- Mobility in South Africa – for three years – and deservedly so. It is not easy to find accommodation for those with physical challenges and this unit ticks all the boxes. It is also ideal for parents, schlepping prams and kiddie paraphernalia. There is a lock up garage, with direct access to the unit which is great to have.
I was impressed with the touches – such as the supply of olive oil and vinegar in the kitchen. When self-catering on a weekend getaway, one doesn’t want to go out and purchase condiments so great to have these provided. There is tea and coffee, dish cloths, detergent and a dishwashing machine. Paper towelling, foil and cling wrap was also supplied – adding a sense of home away from home. Another add-on which caught my eye was the air freshener in the bathroom – often not supplied – and I don’t why as it is an essential. Staying with bathrooms, when we were considering staying in Paternoster some time ago, we came across a slate of accommodation with open-plan bathrooms, with toilets without walls. Perhaps, it is a Paternoster thing. I am please report that Soli Deo Gloria Studio Apartment has a PROPER bathroom, with a door and a toilet IN the bathroom.
The self-catering facilities (including a braai/barbecue) are amazing -one can simply nest and not move for a weekend. There is solar and battery power so if there is a power outage (we call it load shedding in South Africa), you will not be plunged into darkness. Excellent fast Wi-Fi.
The apartment has direct access to the beach, along a wooden pathway and delightful coastal garden, planted with succulents. With the beach access, one needs to be mindful of security issues but this goes for most of the units in the area. There is a friendly and convivial vibe. We chatted with holidaymakers in the adjoining unit, as we reclined in our deck chairs on the patio. If you want isolation and privacy, head for the Cederberg or an isolated retreat.
Paternoster is a buzz, with terrific energy, with lots to do and see, terrific restaurants and shopping. It is regarded as one the oldest fishing villages in South Africa. On the West Coast, it is about 45km to 160km from Cape Town – about 1h 43m by car. We were in the town to attend shows at Die Koelkamers – the gorgeous theatre on The Paternoster Waterfront. The Waterfront has a terrific selection of restaurants and attractions.
The intimate Die Koelkamers presents cabaret, music, theatre and events (art and photography exhibitions, books, webinars etc) and has become a cultural hub in the village. The theatre was established in March of 2021, during the pandemic and I had not been there and so when Jan Malan, co-owner invited me, I was thrilled to check out this theatre which has been charming visitors from South Africa and abroad. Many shows book out so it is advisable to book via its website.
Circling back to restaurants, we ate our breakfasts at Cathy’s Kitchen (1 Seeduiker Street, Paternoster) which is a wow in every way. Light meals are served (eggs, salads, cakes) and everything was excellent. I inevitably request everything on the side and it was no problem. It was perfection. This non-profit eatery is operated by volunteers from the community and also employs a small staff. In addition to an eatery, it run as a donation station and information centre. Mention must be made of the miniature ginger biscuits which are served with coffee and tea and the amazing salad dressing. It is inspirational to see this innovative operation and emblematic of the neighbourly and community minded spirit of the village. They are seamlessly bringing the community into the fold of tourism and culture, with everyone pulling together. As Die Koelkamers notes on its website: “We believe that art is a powerful tool for bringing people and ideas together, and strive to create an inclusive and encouraging environment for everyone.” Bravo to that.
Paternoster is also home to the award winning Wolfgat restaurant – internationally award winning. It is so private that we battled to find it – Google Maps sent us on a run around. Reservations are months in advance and it was not within our budget for this trip, sadly. We will hopefully be back in Paternoster over the winter in South Africa.
Info on Soli Deo Gloria Studio Apartment in Paternoster, see www.paternostergetaways.co.za or www.visitpaternoster.com and follow on https://www.instagram.com/paternostergetaways
Info and bookings for Die Koelkamers, https://www.diekoelkamers.com/ and follow on https://www.instagram.com/diekoelkamers
Info on Cathy’s Kitchen https://www.facebook.com/CathysKitchenPaternoster/
or https://www.instagram.com/cathyskitchenpaternoster
✳ TheCapeRobyn was hosted for at Soli Deo Gloria Studio Apartment by Paternoster Getaways. Pics by Robyn Cohen/TheCapeRobyn. Featured image: The façade of the Soli Deo Gloria Studio Apartment in Paternoster, in the Western Cape (the unit is on the right).
