Portola Valley is a city nestled in the Western Hills. It is part of San Mateo County, well located and close to San Francisco and San Jose. Less a tourist destination that a great place to live and raise your family. The city has been designated as the wealthiest in the country, with professionals, many of whom work in Silicon Valley as your neighbors. It is a welcoming and supportive community.
While it may not be a top tourist destination, it is still a place where great people live. Naturally, there are places of interest, entertainment options, and a dining scene. But mostly the vibe is one of calm and relaxation. After coming home from a grueling day at work, Portola Valley allows you to just sit back and relax.
Here are a few things to do in Portola Valley.
Windy Hill Open Space Preserve
Many activities in Portola Valley are outdoor activities. The locals love to spend time in nature, whether it’s through walking, running, hiking, or cycling. A popular hiking spot is the Windy Hill Open Space preserve, a space completely open to everyone. The summit interestingly has no trees and vegetation and is naked, but the rest is park grounds and forests with redwood, fir, and oak trees. True to its name, it gets very windy and it treats you to great views of the Bay and the ocean.
Wunderlich Park
Another local favorite is the Wunderlich Park that offers many trails for walking, running, and hiking. Along the way you will encounter creeks and hillside habitat, and at the end of the hike you are treated to great views of the countryside.
Stanford Hills
For a light hike with mild elevation, locals like to head to Stanford Hills where along with the exercise you are treated to breathtaking views and also some cows. Head up higher and you will see the Stanford campus, the Bay Area, and the ocean.
Dining Options
If you’re looking for food, there’s Alpine Inn, serving burgers, pizza, and beers. You can also visit Madera if you’re looking for something a little finer and more elegant. In Madera you could sit and enjoy a wonderful patio view. The restaurant is located in the Rosewood Sand Hill Hotel. Bianchini’s Market is where you go to buy fresh produce and local meat products.
Excellent School District
Many families also move to Portola Valley for their kids to be able to study in any of the schools part of the excellent Portola Valley School District. Ormondale Elementary and Corte Madera Middle are two highly regarded public schools and Roman Catholic day and Woodside Priory School.
A Variety of Neighborhoods
Portola Valley consists of many different neighborhoods. The Alpine neighborhood, also known as the Los Trancos, has a rustic charm and offers striking views to the residents. Properties here tend to be more affordable than other neighborhoods. The Ranch consists of both a residence and a preserve, with a large area of wilderness. Central Portola Valley on the other hand is right in the center and the homes sit on an elevated land which also provides great views. The neighborhood is close to everything — the downtown and schools and other amenities.
Real Estate Agent in Portola Valley
If you are looking to buy a home in Portola Valley, Carolyn Botts can help you find the perfect home that you and your family can appreciate for many years to come. She has been named a top real estate agent in Silicon Valley by San Jose Magazine.
Decades of experience, a craftiness and creativity, an eye for what makes a great property, and a positive and friendly attitude — these are what Carolyn Botts will bring to the table. To reach her, call (650) 207-0246 or send a message at [email protected].