South Africa

Abalone House & Spa, Paternoster

This whitewashed boutique hotel may look low key from the outside and blend into Paternoster’s surrounding cottages, but from the inside, it’s a five-star treat. With only ten rooms, you’ll be treated like royalty as the service is just the right level of attentive and relaxed. Luxurious and characterful, the atmosphere here is created with a mixture of eclectic antiques and art: think wooden photo frames, brightly coloured lampshades and armchairs in textured fabrics. If the sea is too cold, Abalone’s heated swimming pool won’t be. Finish the day with a glass of South African’s finest on the terrace of the African bar and you’re really in the swing of Paternoster life.

Location

In the centre of Paternoster on South Africa’s Western Cape, the Abalone is just 1.5 hours drive from Cape Town, overlooking the South Atlantic Ocean.

Your room

With under floor heating for cool mornings, extra-huge beds with percale lined for cosy nights, and sea views for any time of day, the suites at Abalone House are colourful and modern while continuing the antique theme. Traditional polished wooden wardrobes stand by flat, perfectly white walls and the new bathrooms are decorated with colourful African artworks. If the beach, pool, Jacuzzi and potted garden aren’t enough to keep you busy, you have your very own flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, CD and DVD player to keep you entertained.

Why we like it

The level of service is spot on. We love the refreshing scented towels you are given to cool off with in summer, and whenever you need room service or advice, the staff are ready, but they don’t overwhelm you. You can fully relax here, safe in the knowledge that your hotel is eco-friendly and solar-powered too. Don’t miss the organic breakfast and afternoon teas, on the deck or in the bar. Yum.

Other Hotels in South Africa

The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town

Lose yourself to the enchantment of Cape Town at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa. Overlooking the vast Atlantic and backed by the rugged peaks…
View hotel

Saseka Tented Camp, Thornybush Game Reserve

Step into the South African wilderness and watch your very own Attenborough documentary unfold at the otherworldly Saseka Tented Camp. Perched high above the banks…
View hotel

Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek

A trip to South Africa wouldn’t be complete without sampling its world-renowned wine. A picturesque, intimate hotel on a sprawling 100-acre estate, Mont Rochelle is…
View hotel

Dulini Moya, Sabi Sands

Nestled amongst the ancient trees and abundant wildlife of Sabi Sands is the phenomenal Dulini Moya. Intimate and remote, rustic yet luxurious, Dulini is comprised…
View hotel

Leeu House, Franschhoek

Find an oasis of comfort and luxury as you step into Leeu House, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Franschhoek. Surrounded by glorious…
View hotel

“Many companies brag about offering once-in-a-lifetime experiences. But with Black Tomato it’s not hyperbole”

“Black Tomato are one of the coolest things in the world. Don’t even try and live without them”

“Black Tomato is a super innovative company where the sky is the limit for their clients”

“Black Tomato prides itself on meeting customers every minor need or desires”

“Black Tomato is the choice provider of mind-expanding holidays”