From Caravan Park to Luxury Retreat
Nestled on the edge of Carbis Bay near St Ives, Cornwall, Una St Ives has evolved from a simple caravan park into a high-end holiday resort with premium amenities. Spanning 20 acres of natural gardens, the resort is known for its eco-friendly lodges, spa, and leisure facilities, offering a blend of relaxation and modern comforts. Here’s a look at Una St Ives' transformation and what to expect in 2025.
The Early Years & Development
Una St Ives was originally a caravan park, attracting visitors to Carbis Bay’s golden beaches and scenic coastline. In 2012, the Una St Ives brand was launched with a vision of creating a sustainable, eco-inspired retreat. Investors were invited to purchase one to four-bedroom luxury eco-lodges, designed for a combination of private use and holiday lets.
The first phase of development introduced 29 eco-designed lodges, a relaxation garden, and plans for a leisure hub, The Atrium - a space designed for relaxation and wellness. The interiors were led by Iroka, a well-regarded name in Cornish interior design.
Expansion & Growth
In 2014, significant financial investment accelerated the transformation of Una St Ives into a premium holiday destination. Two years later, in 2016, the resort was acquired by Kingfisher Una Resorts, which expanded the site with additional stylish lodges. In 2020, Una St Ives introduced a modern spa, featuring a 15-metre indoor infinity pool, sauna, steam room, and treatment rooms.
That same year, Una Kitchen, the resort’s Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, opened its doors, quickly earning recognition for its wood-fired pizzas and award-winning cuisine.
By 2021, plans were announced for further development, including more villas and an outdoor lido. A year later, in 2022, a £41 million investment was secured to fund major expansions. These included:
A new outdoor lido, heated to 25 degrees and open from March to October.
A barbecue street-style dining area.
93 additional self-catering villas.
A central Piazza with 55 one-bedroom luxury apartments.
The new lido and leisure complex officially opened in 2022, complementing the indoor pool, children’s pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room at the resort.
What’s Happening in 2025?
In October 2024, Kingfisher Una Resorts Limited (KURL), the freeholder of the land at Una St Ives, entered administration. The additional 93 villas and one-bedroom apartments are part finished and it is anticipated that the new freeholder will complete these in the next 12 months.
The freehold for the land is currently for sale, but this has no impact on the 34 privately owned lodges and villas, as well as the independently owned spa, pools, and gym, which continue to operate as usual.
Your Cornish getaway awaits
Una St Ives has transformed significantly from its caravan park roots, offering a luxury escape in one of Cornwall’s most sought-after destinations. While ownership of the freehold land may be changing, the holiday accommodation and leisure facilities remain open, continuing to welcome guests.
Whether you’re seeking a relaxing break, a family holiday, or a coastal adventure, Una St Ives remains a beautiful place to stay.
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