Gonana Guesthouse in Paternoster

By The Married Wanderers On April 18, 2022

We slipped away on a Friday afternoon to what we like to call the “Little Greece” of the Western Cape. White-washed cottages, blue seas and beautiful food – this was our weekend escape to Gonana Guest House and Self-catering Cottages in Paternoster.

A West Coast getaway on Bekbaai beach.

Self-Catering Cottages in Paternoster

Gonana Guest House recently launched two brand new self-catering cottages just one road up from the beach. We stayed in their smaller, one bedroom Aloe Cottage.

The loft style bedroom is upstairs with the lounge, kitchen and bathroom all downstairs. With exposed timber ceilings, modern rattan decor and a cosy West Coast design, this cottage really felt like a home away from home. We immediately fell in love with the light, natural tones of this modern “beach house”.

The Wifi was great (good enough to watch Netflix in bed). There is an alarm system and a friendly security guard monitoring the street outside.

We really love this area of Paternoster.

They will be adding a pool to the cottages in May 2022 so keep an eye on their website or social media pages for updated pictures! With their own pool for Summer and an indoor fireplace for Winter, this self-catering cottage is a winner for us!

Bekbaai / Bek Bay Beach

A mere 2 minute stroll from the cottage, found us sinking our toes into the sand on Bekbaai Beach. We had previously only spent time on the main beach in Paternoster. We fell in love with this smaller, more quiet piece of paradise.

A weekend away in Paternoster really is all about long beach walks, sea facing sunsets and good food.

We spent every early morning and late afternoon just enjoying the cool ocean breeze from the beachfront. I think what really draws us to Paternoster is the sense of space. The beaches are so wide and endless that you’re able to really breathe and feel that sense of escapism.

Gonana Guest House

Although the Gonana Guest House is a separate property to the cottages, we loved popping in for a swim, buffet breakfast and a few sea-gazing sundowners on the deck. Located right on the beach, the views couldn’t be dreamier.

Interesting note: The guesthouse is almost fully self-sufficient.

We couldn’t tell you what we recommend more – the separate cottages or the guest house rooms. They each have their own set of benefits which really depends on what you’re looking for.

The guest house rooms are right on the beach and offer the stunning swimming pool and upstairs communal lounge area (with sea views). However the cottages are actual homes that offer everything you may need for a longer stay. They also provide more space and privacy which we found useful with our 10 month old, Willow.