Italy’s largest hotel group, UNA Italian Hospitality, has officially launched its first property in Calabria with the addition of UNA Hotels Tenuta Contessa Farm & SPA Cosenza. Located in the Valle del Crati, this 19th-century farmhouse-turned-luxury retreat marks a step into southern Italy, where demand is rising for rural getaways and wellness-centric stays.
Set against the Pollino Massif and Sila Highlands, the property offers a blend of rustic elegance and modern functionality, catering especially to the UK traveller market. With 23 individually designed suites that feature countryside views and large workspaces, it’s a targeted destination for the increasing number of visitors blending leisure with light remote work.
“Travellers are moving beyond the classic Italian city break,” a UNA spokesperson noted. “There’s a real shift towards meaningful experiences in lesser-known destinations – Calabria offers that in spades.” For those unfamiliar, the Calabria region is known for its unspoiled landscapes, authentic cuisine and rich cultural heritage, yet remains one of Italy’s least-explored areas by international tourists.
Wellness is central to the guest experience. The Escape Bio & Wine Spa spans 260m2 and offers organic treatments, a gym and a seasonal outdoor pool surrounded by olive trees. Dining is equally local, with the Lucia Madre Restaurant sourcing ingredients from the estate’s organic garden and nearby producers, presenting a farm-to-fork take on classic Mediterranean cuisine.
UK guests will find the hotel aligned with key travel trends for 2025 – including immersive local experiences, wellness-led stays and value beyond the usual tourist routes. According to VisitBritain, British travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that deliver cultural authenticity, personal enrichment and sustainable practices. Visitors to Tenuta Contessa can take part in olive oil tastings, wine tours and Calabrian cooking classes, all designed to deepen the connection with the region’s traditions.
The property also serves as an event venue, with the capacity to host weddings and corporate functions for up to 400 guests. Indoor and outdoor spaces like the panoramic Infinito terrace offer scenic backdrops and flexible configurations for gatherings of all kinds.
This move is part of UNA’s broader strategy to diversify its portfolio and meet the increasing demand for authentic, sustainable travel. As interest in Calabria continues to grow – especially among UK and Northern European markets – UNA’s arrival adds weight to the region’s hospitality offering and further supports Italy’s position in the wellness tourism market.
