San Diego county real estate
City: Rancho Santa Fe


Rancho Santa Fe is an unincorporated area located in the North County of San Diego. The ranch as it is fondly called is a California Historic Landmark and is known for its large lots, rural ambiance and celebrity residents.

The original land grant was made to Lebrado Silva in 1831. Juan Maria Osuna, the alcalde (Mayor) of San Diego took possession of the land in 1836. His family gradually sold off the land, owning only about 200 acres in 1906 when the Santa Fe Railway bought the land that made up the San Dieguito Land Grant in order to plant eucalyptus trees. The goal was to use the trees as railroad ties. However, the trees proved unacceptable for this use and residential development became the goal. The completion of the Lake Hodges dam in 1917 brought water to the area and construction of the village began in 1922.

Planning and respect for the environment have been hallmarks of the covenant (as the original subdvision is called) from the beginning. Lillian Rice, a local architect, planned the subdivision, and her vision and meticulous design continue to guide it today. The winding roads were laid out to slow down drivers and ensure that they would enjoy the scenery. The Spanish Colonial Revival style of architecture was standard for all the public buildings--school, library, the Inn, the civic center--designed by Rice. She also designed a number of private residences in this style.

The civic center of Rancho Santa Fe survives today much as Rice planned it and is jealously guarded by residents from unnecessary changes. The minimum lot size established by the covenant--two and half acres--ensures that the homes in Rancho Santa Fe are private and highly desirable. The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe has hosted numerous celebrities and is a well-loved destination for Californians and other visitors who want to get away for a vacation.

The Rancho Santa Fe zipcode is highly desirable and other communities have grown up around the ranch over the years. Fairbanks Ranch, Hacienda Santa Fe, The Summit, Del Rayo, Morgan's Run and recently Rancho Cielo and the Crosby Estates surround the original covenant and share in its ambiance.

The ranch is known for its horses--there are bridle paths throughout the ranch; its golf and tennis; and its proximity to some of the best beaches in Southern California. Some of the finest horse trainers in the country live here and the area was the site for the equestrian events during the 1984 Olympics. Polo is also a favorite pastime.