Stepping out into the last of the afternoon sun we make our way down to the beach. There are two paths directly in front of the hotel; one hidden along a white wall and one clearly cut out from a charming dry boat with “Paternoster” on the side.
The Abalone Hotel faces the ocean and provides easy access to the beach, morning or night. From the breakfast table, we watched the waves break as fishermen boats cut the surface of the ocean. In the afternoon, the sea glistens in the west coast light.
We initially wondered if being away from the “main beach” would be a negative, but it is absolutely a positive as we hog the bare Bek Bay cove (nearly) to ourselves.
Our First Visit to Paternoster
We arrive in the late afternoon, parking in the ample bays outside the hotel. There’s a cul de sac out front, but this best explored on foot. Passing through the square pond, no frogs in sight. Maybe frogs don’t live at the sea?
The reception desk is open, clear and warm. The interior is cosy with a well appointed sea theme. Particular mention must go to the muscle artworks, which are the most creative uses of the shells I’ve seen to date. Warm furnishings, a double fireplace and clear view down the restaurant into the light of the bay is a welcome entrance.
Passing through the foyer, we step into the courtyard and are immediately impressed by the thickly cushioned loungers. Not a couple to usually sunbathe, these looked very comfortable! Sadly, we didn’t realise the pool was heated until the day we left, but would highly recommend you make use of the lounger alcoves & warm water if you can.
Our First Visit to the Abalone Hotel
Our room is located on the ground floor. Simple, yet large room with king-sized bed, double seats, desk, coffee station and double doors onto a patio, this is a good room for a longer term stay – particularly if you have equipment with you. A large cupboard behind the entrance door and en suite bathroom, make it a couples’ delight. The room also includes Netflix and decent wifi.
It is on the colder side of rooms, however, there were ample blankets available to ensure a good night’s rest and on Sunday afternoon, we opened the doors to the courtyard to let in the winter sun and enjoyed a nap to the sounds of the local bird life.
Breakfast is Served
Unusual for a luxury hotel, breakfast isn’t automatically included. There is the option to include it in your booking and we encourage you to do so. The breakfast was excellent – best cheese griller I’ve had in years – and certainly worth including, particularly for the morning views across the bay.
Seeing the ocean first thing in the morning and last thing at night, definitely enticed us to visit the bay. We essentially popped down twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening. We had a relaxing time being alone, enjoying the colours, exploring the rocks and watching dogs live their best lives on the coast.
On our last night, we turned around to see the most exquisite full moon rising above the hotel! It was truly spectacular.
Our Top Tips For Staying at the Abalone Hotel & Spa
- Breakfast not automatically included, speak to booking agent ahead of time to include.
- Bring slippers for bedrooms, floors are cold.
- Don’t forget to use the swimming pool – it’s heated!
- Enjoy a sundowner from the restaurant lounge, super comfy & relaxing.
- Bonus: the restaurant requests all phones on silent and calls to be taken in the courtyard.
- *Some of the villas are in a different location to the hotel.
Closing Thoughts
We absolutely loved being located so closely to the intimate bay. As a married couple who don’t live at the sea, the location of the Abalone Hotel afforded us a good “breakaway” from city life.
For those who are keen for a festive weekend though, the town has many a bars available and is sure to offer a good time. While there is also a bar at the Abalone Hotel, but I suspect it only gets rowdy if the whole venue is booked out for a single party.
The service in the hotel and restaurant was warm and welcoming. Polite staff who take a pride in their roles makes a big difference in small towns. It’s pleasing to see local people enjoying a prosperous career in a small town (I come from a small town and believe these roles are vital.) It was a pleasure to deal with the staff at the Abalone Hotel.
Abalone Hotel & Villas Winter Special – Save 45%!
Abalone Hotel & Villas is offering an unforgettable stay at the hotel, which includes:
3 Night Stay
- 3 Night Stay
- Relaxing 90 min couples spa package
- Use of the heated pool, sauna and jacuzzi
- 2 glasses of bubbly
Value: R7 999, winter offer: R4 399!
2 Night Stay
- 2 Night Stay
- Relaxing 90 min couples spa package
- Use of the heated pool, sauna and jacuzzi
- 2 glasses of bubbly
Value: R5 999, winter offer: R3 499!
T’s & C’s
- Special offers valid until the 31st of August 2022 for South African residents only.
- Based on 2 guests per room, subject to availability and new bookings only.
- Can not be used in conjunction with any other offer.
- Upgrades from R300 per room, per night.
For reservations contact stay@abalonehotel.co.za or 022 752 2044
