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 colored 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 center 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 cozy nights, and sea views for any time of day, the suites at Abalone House are colorful and modern while continuing the antique theme. Traditional polished wooden closets stand by flat, perfectly white walls and the new bathrooms are decorated with colorful 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.