Forty-Four years ago one could not have believed how dry and arid the site was with no vegetation, just rocks. Yet the energy of the site and rawness of the earth captivated the imagination of its founder, the architect and therapist Denis Devaris, to create a retreat where like-minded people could collaborate their ideas through workshops and seminars. It is now an ecological centre where space is provided for individual retreat or a retreat venue to which professional seminar leaders can bring their groups, just a 15 minute-walk away from the coastline.
“It doesn’t make sense to talk about spiritual science, if it is not dedicated to service Humankind”
Rudolf Steiner
Based on Rudolf Steiner’s Anthroposophic Philosophy and open to any like-minded movement, this Centre welcomes any visitor looking for peace, quiet and good weather. The environment itself is designed to therapeutically revitalize the exhausted and relax the stressed one.
“Tonight, I have dreamed that I was a butterfly. But, how could I know, if I am a man who has dreamed that he was a butterfly, or a butterfly that now is dreaming being a man?”
Chang Tsé, Chinese Philosopher
CRISTOFORO Centre has opened his doors to groups performing medical-therapeutic, as well as personal development activities. The criteria to support these activities have been those of facilitating the development of an spiritual awakening with a clear consciousness, without any artificial stimuli.
“We are not Human Beings having a Spiritual Experience, but Spiritual Beings, having a human experience”
Mystical Christians
The essence of this Centre is based on the absence of dogmatism and sectarism, respect to freedom, individuality and integrity of each and every person.
Hacienda Cristóforo Rudolf Steiner Association of Arts, Agriculture, Education and Complementary Therapies. Charity Organization, registered in Gobierno de Canarias, number G1/S1/7609-86/TF. Since 1986
Your contributions support the maintenance of the centre.
Denis Devaris (1929-2023) - Founder
A Vision Rooted in Nature
More than 51 years ago, what is now a flourishing retreat was once a dry and rocky landscape. Inspired by the raw beauty of the land, architects Denis Devaris and Barbara Manteuffell envisioned and created a space where architecture and nature exist in harmony. Their designs, built with wood and volcanic stone, embrace the organic flow of the landscape, ensuring that every corner of the finca feels integrated with its surroundings.
Originally known as Finca Naranjas, the land later became known as Hacienda Cristoforo, evolving into a retreat center that welcomed guests from around the world. To honor its heritage, the finca has now returned to its original name, Finca Naranjas—a name that reflects its deep connection to the land and its natural surroundings.
Although Denis Devaris was deeply interested in philosophy and holistic approaches to well-being, his primary passion was architecture, designing spaces that uplift the human spirit. His vision laid the foundation for a retreat that continues to welcome those seeking peace, renewal, and inspiration.
Finca Naranjas is open seasonally for curated retreats from January to April, while the rest of the year, it is available for private retreats and exclusive events. It remains a place where guests can experience a slower rhythm, enjoy the warmth of Tenerife’s climate, and find inspiration in its tranquil gardens and thoughtful architecture.