Abalone House \ Accommodation in Paternoster

Imagine the most decadent escape possible, cocooned in opulence and surrounded by intricate indigenous gardens - the cool Atlantic Ocean as backdrop. Picture utter elegance in the midst of wind chime music and flowing water, tangles of orchids, vibrant art and cosy intimate spaces. You’ll find it all at Abalone House.

Accommodation

Abalone House boasts 10 magnificent suites, designed around a tranquil, central courtyard. There’s even a rooftop Jacuzzi, with a panoramic sea view, for the enjoyment of guests. Or you can cool off in the elegant swimming pool, surrounded by a colourful potted garden.

In the suites, every earthly desire has been thought of and catered for. Beds are oversized and extra-length, festooned in monogrammed percale linen. There’s under-floor heating beneath the thick, luxurious carpets as well as in the bathrooms - which also have heated towel rails and wall heaters for winter. All suites are air-conditioned and appointed with flat screen televisions and cappuccino/espresso machines, stocked mini-bars, iPod docking stations, CD and DVD players and a digital weather forecast station. The extensive book and DVD libraries are also available for the enjoyment of guests, and all suites also have built-in laptop safes.

Facilities

Owners Johan Jansen van Vuuren and Stef Venter’s love of decadence and grandeur is seen throughout Abalone House, in the rich colour palette and opulent furnishings. They are inspired by the vibrancy of Tretchikoff and the surreal quality of orchids - and both are in every room in Abalone House. Renowned interior designer, Dawid Strauss, is responsible for the richly layered décor that includes eclectic treasures from Johan and Stef’s personal collection of global memorabilia.

In furnishings, modern pieces mix easily with oversized antiques and rugs, and old silver lives alongside crystal and feather fringed lamps. Abalone House is a study in texture and the unique colours of Africa. Deep reds, purples, oranges and intense earth tones play against stone floors and rough wooden ceilings. Huge fireplaces dominate central areas and dance with warmth in winter.

Dining

Fine food and dining Irish Chef Nickie Lawson has crafted a menu to showcase the very best of West Coast cuisine and fresh local foods. She describes cuisine as “Exquisite world cuisine, with an African twist.” Locally sourced seafood features prominently, alongside traditional South Africa cuisine - but there are meat and chicken dishes too.

A special Chef’s Table also sits comfortably in the kitchen, where up to 10 guests can enjoy dining in situ as Nicky creates tantalizing dishes. Main meals, accompanied by select local wines, are served in the exotically appointed Saffron Restaurant - under crystal chandeliers and surrounded by candlelight and evocative artwork. Antiques are everywhere, and of course, orchids too.

The sea view Orchid Room is the setting for breakfasts and afternoon teas. Overlooking indigenous gardens in the foreground, the Orchid Room is washed in sunshine where a myriad of different orchids flourish. It’s a calm space to relax during the day too - reading, playing board games or gazing out to sea through the antique telescope. Watch out for the two resident ducks patrolling the garden.

The Africa Bar is an eclectic mix of old Africa and new. Warmed in winter by an oversized fireplace, it’s a vibrant central meeting space to relax and socialize. Every tipple imaginable is on offer, as well as French champagnes, the world’s top six single malt whiskeys and the finest in brandies. A special selection of cocktails are also available.

The Boardroom

The plush, intimate boardroom overlooks the languid pool and tranquil courtyard, and can seat up to 16 people in plush high back chairs. The walls are lined with books and the venue is installed with all the media and audiovisual equipment necessary for a successful board meeting or executive workshop. At Abalone House there is also wireless internet connectivity throughout, as well as a small charming business centre which also offers internet access. Airport transfers to and from Cape Town international can be easily arranged on request.

Wherever possible, Abalone House is eco friendly too. Water is solar heated and all kitchen refuse is separated for easy recycling. There’s even a worm farm to generate fertilizer for the surrounding gardens. Of course, waste is kept to a minimum.

Activities and Attractions

When the beach calls, ready packed beach bags await guests at the front door, and a picnic lunch can also be arranged. Lovers of Tretchikoff can buy memorabilia to take home as a keepsakes. A special addition to Abalone House is the compact suite offered free to the driver or guide accompanying a tour group, so making them accessible to guests in residence.

Related / Useful Links

• Accommodation in South Africa
• Paternoster Accommodation
• Paternoster Bed & Breakfast
• Paternoster Guest Houses
• Western Cape Accommodation