The Cradle of Tranquility: Paternoster and the Gonana Collection - Cape Town Today
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The Cradle of Tranquility: Paternoster and the Gonana Collection

3 mins read
sustainability travel

Experience the serene and sustainable Gonana Collection in the peaceful fishing village of Paternoster, where each of the seven properties is powered by solar energy and offers a warm embrace of the idyllic environment. Discover a tapestry of sustainability woven from unrefined local materials and collaboration with local craftsmen. Embrace the Gonana lifestyle and contribute to the evolution of travel in this sanctuary for contemplation and mindfulness where nature and elegance intertwine.

Paternoster: A Haven Of Serenity

Discover the Gonana Collection, the pioneering sustainable guesthouse and vacation rental properties in the idyllic fishing village of Paternoster. Each of the seven properties is distinctively powered by solar energy, offering a warm and soothing embrace of the serene environment. From the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve to the last manned lighthouse in South Africa, historical and natural landmarks are within the grasp of the Gonana Collection.

Paternoster: A Haven Of Serenity

Consider the idyllic fishing village of Paternoster, blissfully nestled on the tranquil side known as Bekbaai. The Gonana Collection holds the honor of being the pioneering sustainable guesthouse and vacation rental properties in this peaceful West Coast region, offering a warm and soothing embrace of the serene environment.

“Gonana,” a Zulu expression meaning ‘to embrace,’ signifies more than just the captivating properties’ moniker. It represents a way of living, a philosophical approach passionately advocated by its Swedish proprietor and interior architect, Jonas Sandström. Sandström has artfully combined his Scandinavian lineage with African influences to create abodes that elegantly honor their humble fishing village origins, yet with a contemporary twist. Through the incorporation of unrefined local materials and collaboration with local craftsmen, he has woven a detailed narrative of sustainability.

The Gonana Collection: A Tapestry of Sustainability

As one navigates through the Gonana Collection, one is instantly captivated by the minimalist, contemporary framework, and the rich textures that characterize each of the seven properties. Each residence is distinctively powered by solar energy, ensuring a seamless holiday experience. From the Cape Columbine Nature Reserve to the last manned lighthouse in South Africa, historical and natural landmarks are within the grasp of the Gonana Collection.

Begin your Gonana discovery with a visit to the Gonana Guesthouse. Positioned on a tiny dune, neighboring a restored green zone, and located directly on the beach, the guesthouse cleverly integrates eco-friendly design without sacrificing the experience. From the driftwood communal dining table, a focal point with its own narrative, to the solar-heated saltwater pool built for social media, this property caters exclusively to couples or families with mature children.

Embracing the Gonana Lifestyle

A short distance from the guesthouse, you’ll discover Acacia House and Aloe House, the perfect canvas for a memorable sunset. Both properties personify comfort, featuring fully equipped kitchens and daily housekeeping, allowing you to indulge in the home-like ambiance.

For those in search of an authentic West Coast fisherman’s cottage encounter, Coral Villa, Bekbaai’s oldest fisherman’s cottage, offers the ideal ambiance. This lodge is perfect for family and friends, boasting a spacious indoor fireplace and a long table ideal for fireside conversations. The property provides the perfect background noise of crashing waves as you enjoy the indigenous fynbos garden view from the outdoor grill and front porch.

Tucked behind Coral Villa are three studios, perfect for solo explorers or couples. The studios are conveniently situated near the local theatre and come outfitted with a kitchenette, an orthopedic mattress, and a shared garden view from the sheltered grill area.

The Gonana Experience

Paternoster, a tribute to the Catholic Portuguese sailors shipwrecked along South Africa’s West Coast, is more than a travel destination. It’s a sanctuary for contemplation and mindfulness. The Gonana Collection inspires you to tread lightly, leaving only footprints behind as you roam the open beaches on e-bikes or horseback, or leisurely make your way to nearby eateries.

With Gonana, you’re not merely reserving a stay; you’re contributing to the evolution of travel. So don’t hesitate. Embrace a new travel paradigm and discover the true soul of Paternoster, a place where nature and elegance intertwine, a place that genuinely exemplifies ‘Gonana.’

1. What is the Gonana Collection?

The Gonana Collection is a pioneering sustainable guesthouse and vacation rental properties in the idyllic fishing village of Paternoster, powered by solar energy and offering a warm and soothing embrace of the serene environment.

2. How many properties are in the Gonana Collection?

There are seven properties in the Gonana Collection, each distinctively powered by solar energy, ensuring a seamless holiday experience.

3. What is the philosophy behind Gonana?

“Gonana,” a Zulu expression meaning ‘to embrace,’ signifies more than just the captivating properties’ moniker. It represents a way of living, a philosophical approach passionately advocated by its Swedish proprietor and interior architect, Jonas Sandström. Sandström has artfully combined his Scandinavian lineage with African influences to create abodes that elegantly honor their humble fishing village origins, yet with a contemporary twist.

4. What is the ambiance like in the Gonana Collection?

As one navigates through the Gonana Collection, one is instantly captivated by the minimalist, contemporary framework, and the rich textures that characterize each of the seven properties. Each residence is distinctively powered by solar energy, ensuring a seamless holiday experience.

5. What is the Gonana experience in Paternoster?

Paternoster, a tribute to the Catholic Portuguese sailors shipwrecked along South Africa’s West Coast, is more than a travel destination. It’s a sanctuary for contemplation and mindfulness. The Gonana Collection inspires you to tread lightly, leaving only footprints behind as you roam the open beaches on e-bikes or horseback, or leisurely make your way to nearby eateries.

6. How does Gonana contribute to the evolution of travel?

With Gonana, you’re not merely reserving a stay; you’re contributing to the evolution of travel. Gonana represents a way of living, a philosophical approach passionately advocated by its Swedish proprietor and interior architect, Jonas Sandström. Gonana Collection embraces sustainability and encourages travelers to tread lightly, leaving only footprints behind as they explore the serene environment.

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