Anantara Hotels, Resorts & Spas will open a second property in Portugal next year as part of a strategic expansion plan in Europe.

The hotel brand has partnered with Portuguese real estate agency Investaureum Group to transform a former 15th-century monastery in southern Portugal.

Anantara Royal Vila Viçosa will be situated in the small town of Vila Viçosa, known as the ‘princess’ of tourism region of Alentejo.

The property is set to undergo a full redesign led by global architecture, urbanism and design studio Broadway Malyan, with the aim of “highlighting the characteristics" of the original space.

Once complete, the hotel will be spread over three floors and feature 50 guest rooms, 10 suites, 16 residences, an outdoor and indoor swimming pool and three dining options including a restaurant and bar, a private fine dining area and a wine cellar.

The resort’s amenities will also include an Anantara Spa, a fitness room and three conference rooms. 

Dillip Rajakarier, chief executive of Anantara's parent company Minor Hotels, said: “We are delighted to continue the expansion of our luxury Anantara brand in Portugal in the historic town of Vila Viçosa.

“Located in Alentejo, an increasingly sought-after tourist destination, the upcoming Anantara Royal Vila Vicosa Resort promises unforgettable experiences that characterise the brand”. 

Gonçalo Carrington, co-founder and managing partner of Investaureum Group, added: “The Investaureum Group is proud to partner with Minor Hotels and the Anantara brand. It is a real pleasure to embrace this project, not only due to the beauty of the property but also giving the opportunity to highlight Investaureum as a developer and promoter, where the refurbishment and legacy of heritage buildings, combined with the social responsibility and investment in regions of low population density, are the main drive.”

Anantara made its debut in Europe in 2017 with the opening Anantara Vilamoura Algarve Resort in southern Portugal. The brand has since opened properties in Marbella, Rome and Budapest and has additional openings slating for later this year,