Review: Escape and recharge at Gonana Collection in Paternoster

In an attempt to take a little break from domestic life and daily responsibilities, three friends and I decided to plan a weekend away, sans husbands and children. But where?

Somewhere not too far from our homes in Cape Town, somewhere relaxing, somewhere self-catering, somewhere with fresh ocean air and gentle strolling terrain.

A two-night stay at the award-winning Gonana Collection in the charming seaside village of Paternoster proved to be the perfect place to settle our overstimulated nervous systems.

We were fortunate enough to stay at the Acacia and Aloe Houses, two of the self-catering options situated a street away from the main guesthouse.

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The two adjoining cottages suited us perfectly: Acacia House offers two en-suite bedrooms, while Aloe House features a single bedroom and a sleeper couch.

Above the bedrooms in Acacia House, a compact yet well-equipped kitchen, cosy lounge with a fireplace, and balcony with braai facilities and sea views became the main hub for lengthy chats and meals uninterrupted by young kiddos.

Gonana Collection is tastefully decorated with local furniture and art, showcasing an African-meets-Scandi aesthetic, most certainly influenced by the owner, Swedish entrepreneur and interior designer Jonas Sandström.

Other noteworthy drawcards include the property’s sustainability and environmentally conscious approach. The guesthouse is effectively off the grid: all its water is recycled twice and all its power is solar-generated.

Plastic usage is kept to a minimum, while the gardens are indigenous and water-wise. The décor is natural and locally sourced, further reinforcing its eco-conscious ethos.

A continental buffet and hot-to-order breakfast are offered at an additional fee at the main guesthouse in a cosy upstairs dining room. A long-shared table allows guests to mingle over eggs and bacon while gazing out at the picturesque Bekbaai Beach.

‘Gonana’ is derived from the isiZulu word meaning ‘embrace’, so it seems fitting to learn that, besides the main guesthouse, all the other accommodation options, including the houses, studio, and villa, are pet-friendly, while the entire property proudly welcomes the LGBTQ+ community.

This, coupled with the friendly and accommodating staff and homely décor, truly reinforces the feeling of being embraced while staying at Gonana.

For more information or to book, visit www.gonanaguesthouse.com.

Gonana Guest House is a member of Cape Country Routes.