ananea Debuts First Hotel in Thailand

ananea Debuts First Hotel in Thailand

Kata Group Resorts, a pioneer of beachfront hospitality in Southeast Asia with more than 45 years of experience, has unveiled a new era in luxury travel with the rebranding of Beyond Khaolak Resort into ananea Beyond Khaolak. This marks the first ananea-branded property in Thailand — and the flagship of the European lifestyle hotel brand in Southeast Asia.

Nestled along the serene Pak Weep Beach in Khao Lak, Phang Nga province, the resort introduces a contemporary approach to relaxation inspired by Slow Glamour — a lifestyle philosophy that celebrates simplicity, mindfulness, and genuine connection with nature and people.


A Partnership of Cultures and Visions

The transformation is part of a strategic collaboration between Kata Group Resorts and ananea, a lifestyle hotel brand under DERTOUR Hotels & Resorts, part of the DER Touristik Group — one of Europe’s leading travel corporations. With this partnership, European design sensibility meets Thai warmth, creating a coastal retreat that redefines beachfront leisure.

“This rebrand is far more than a new name,” shared Mr. Pramookpisitt Achariyachai, Chairman of Kata Group Resorts. “ananea Beyond Khaolak represents a renewed sense of purpose — to craft meaningful and memorable travel moments for a new generation of mindful travelers.”


The Meaning Behind ananea

ananea Beyond Khaolak Redefines Luxury in Thailand

The name ananea derives from the Greek word ananeosis, meaning renewal. This spirit of renewal flows through every detail of the resort — from its minimalist Mediterranean-inspired design to its grounding Thai sensibility. The blend of natural textures, soft earth tones, and open spaces creates a sense of “Barefoot Luxury” — where effortless elegance meets a deep sense of calm.

Located just 80 minutes from Phuket International Airport, the all-villa resort offers 177 spacious villas, from intimate Garden Villas to expansive Two-Bedroom Pool Villas. Each space invites relaxation, privacy, and reconnection with nature — embracing the philosophy that less is more.


Wellness, Dining, and the Art of Slow Living

ananea Beyond Khaolak follows an Adult-Centric design philosophy that prioritizes tranquility and comfort, though guests of all ages are welcome. Facilities include the serene Kanda Spa, a modern fitness center, and generous swimming pools surrounded by tropical gardens. Wellness programs focus on gentle movement, mindfulness, and rejuvenation — what the brand calls Slow Entertainment.

Dining is an experience in itself. Motown On Fire serves premium steaks and grilled specialties, At Beach Bar & Restaurant offers relaxed seaside dining, and @Beyond Café invites guests to linger over coffee, conversation, and coastal breezes.


Sustainability and a Purposeful Future

Sustainability lies at the heart of the resort’s philosophy. Guided by the belief that “Beyond a Good Place Is a Better Planet,” the team strives to balance comfort with care for the environment and community.

“As part of our long-term vision, we align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030,” explained Mr. Sassitt ‘John’ Thavornvongwongse, Assistant Vice President of Kata Group Resorts and Beyond Hotels & Resorts. “Our practices focus on conserving Khao Lak’s marine and coastal ecosystems, reducing waste, and supporting local economic growth — not as a trend, but as a responsibility.”


A New Kind of Thai Coastal Escape

ananea Beyond Khaolak represents a new chapter in Thai hospitality — one where luxury feels natural, time slows down, and every detail encourages mindful connection. With its blend of European sophistication, Thai authenticity, and sustainable design, this resort offers travelers not just a stay, but a journey of renewal.

For more information, please visit: www.ananeabeyondkhaolak.com

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About the author

Thomas holds a university degree with a focus on Languages, Humanities, Culture, Literature, and Economics, earned in both the UK and Latin America. His journey in Asia began in 2005 when he worked as a publisher in Krabi. Over the past twenty years, Thomas has edited newspapers and magazines across England, Spain, and Thailand. Currently, he is involved in multiple projects both in Thailand and internationally. In addition to Thailand, Thomas has lived in Italy, England, Venezuela, Cuba, Spain, and Bali, but he spends the majority of his time in Asia. Through his diverse experiences, he has gained a deep understanding of various Asian cultures and communities. Thomas also works as a freelance writer, contributing short travel stories and articles to travel magazines. You can follow his work at www.asianitinerary.com

View all articles by Thomas Gennaro