Introduction
Founded back in 2001 with its first luxury property in Thailand, Anantara Hotel & Resorts' collection now spans over 20 countries in three continents. Derived from the ancient Sanskrit word meaning 'without end' or 'limitless', the brand name reflects Anantara's commitment to going the extra mile and embracing innovation. Across its resorts, Anantara connects its guests with the authentic culture, heritage and traditions of the region, offering unique insights into the character of a destination along with genuine experiences. Below we highlight the best of Anantara in Europe, exploring everything from the exceptional standard of hospitality to the award-winning spas of its esteemed European resorts, from the elegant Spanish sanctuary of Anantara Villa Padierna in the Costa Del Sol, to the secluded Anantara Vilamoura in Portugal's Algarve.
Seamless service and hospitality
Central to the Anantara concept is its reputation for warm hospitality and world-class service. As such it neatly blends the very best of the legendary hospitality of its Thai roots with a modern and more nuanced understanding of the luxury hotel industry and contemporary guest expectations and needs. In fact, across the industry the service within the Anantara collection is considered the gold standard of luxury hospitality. Across all its resorts, guests can expect warm welcoming staff, thoughtful touches which enhance the guest experience, and a personalised service which is always one step ahead.
Immersive culinary experiences
Throughout their European resorts, Anantara are known for their diverse range of culinary delights which are designed to celebrate the best of the regions local flavours. You'll find the likes of exquisite seasonal Mediterranean flavours at Villa Padierna, mouthwatering seafood feasts at Anantara Vilamoura and sophisticated Italian cuisine in both Rome and the Amalfi Coast, with the latter offering expertly prepared delicacies by renowned Chef Claudio Lanuto. You can even experience the most authentic flavours of Andalusian cuisine with a private Spice Spoons Anantara Cooking Class at Anantara Villa Padierna, visiting a local market in company of a chef, selecting the freshest of local ingredients before mastering new techniques in a step-by-step cooking experience in a professional kitchen.
For special celebrations, Anantara's signature 'Dining by Design' concept provides an exceptional private dining experience in a breathtaking location of your choosing. This could be everything from a picnic in a vineyard to a candlelit beach dinner. You'll have the services of a private chef and butler as you enjoy a choice of local gourmet and international menus, paired perfectly alongside award-winning wines.
Signature spa and wellness
To match its impeccable facilities, Anantara's spa and wellness programmes offer exceptional pampering steeped in ancient wellness traditions, brought up to date with local ingredients, rituals and techniques from the region, restoring the balance and harmony between body and mind for guests. Take for instance Portugal's Anantara Vilamoura – with its highly acclaimed Thai-style spa and health club offering programmes such as Tai chi and yoga – or over 2000 square metres at Villa Padierna, dedicated to Roman baths, a hammam and pool set in landscaped gardens in what is one of Europe's largest and most luxurious spa retreats.
Across Anantara, wellness and wellbeing can be personalised with guest-specific programmes targeting both the body and mind, whether that means getting in shape with a personal trainer, detoxing with a nutritious diet and aqua therapies or physiotherapist treatments and massages.
Leisure facilities
When it comes to leisure, Anantara offers both experiences on resort and a chance to explore the region through a set of authentic experiences. Southern Italy's Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel is a prime example – guests can take advantage of the resort's infinity pool which comes with unrivalled views overlooking the harbour, take on a more active pursuit in sailing to the island of Capri or venture out on a sunny day exploring the coast. Over in Anantara's Vilamoura resort, relaxing pool days and spa pampering can help you revitalise, while challenging your companion to a game of tennis at the on-site grass courts offers a more active option. Golfing is also a big hitter with Anantara. Those heading to Villa Padierna on the Costa Del Sol can make use of three world-class golf courses. And, for those looking for more cultural experiences, Anantara leaves no stone unturned. Chose from the likes of Flamenco shows and wine tasting in Spain to wandering through ruins and UNESCO World Heritage towns in Italy – all as part of a hand-picked Anantara experience programme.
