Rancho San Pasqual

With hundreds of spacious, upscale living options nestled along the foothills of Palomar Mountain, Cloverdale is San Diego County’s best-kept secret.

As you enter the gated community of Rancho San Pasqual, you are greeted with rolling mountain vistas and towering trees that line the streets, many of which end in cul-de-sacs. The natural beauty doesn't stop there, as there are plenty of natural waterfalls that some residents can see from their homes. The community is filled with single-family homes, many with Mediterranean-style architecture that includes tiled roofing and front patios where you can sit outside with a cup of tea and say hello to passing-by neighbors. Kristen Akagi, real estate agent with eXp Realty of Southern California and resident of Rancho San Pasqual says, “The community is a hidden gem, and it’s a little bit old fashioned but close enough to all of the modern amenities.” She adds “It’s a place where you can go and ask your neighbor for milk or eggs if you’ve run out.” Homes in Rancho San Pasqual are a hot commodity and don’t come on the market often, but recently sold properties were priced between the mid $700,000 range up to $1.4 million. There are also plenty of spacious homes in the neighboring Rachos at Vistamonte gated community. Prospective residents will find various homes here, including homes with stone turrets that have instant curb appeal, high ceilings, custom flooring, and fixtures that are sure to wow guests.

Children living in Cloverdale will likely start their education at San Pasqual Union School, nicknamed “The Little School in the Valley.” As a winner of the 2022 California Practice Pivotal Award, which celebrates schools that have adopted innovative practices for distance learning, students are offered a unique curriculum as they progress from kindergarten through eighth grade. Students from sixth to eighth grade can participate in one of the many year-round sports programs, ranging from cross country to boys’ and girls’ volleyball and soccer. Before and after school care through the local YMCA is also available. After graduating from San Pasqual Union, students will likely attend Orange Glen High School, only minutes away. Students can take advantage of the College and Career Center, Dual Enrollment courses and several scholarship opportunities to put their best foot forward when entering the next stage of their lives.

Though you can get your steps in for the day by walking along the sidewalk-lined residential streets, there are plenty of outdoor spaces around as well. Rancho San Pasqual residents can head to the clubhouse to dip in the pool or have an afternoon picnic under the trees. Parents can take their children to the playground to burn off some energy, and there is also a basketball court perfect for a quick pickup game. Residents are also not too far away from Mountain View Park, which features an expansive playground and a fitness court. For a relaxing day on the water, head to Dixon Lake. Dixon Lake has several hiking trails, campsites for an overnight stay and several areas to cast a line and fish.

For a day on the fairways, book a tee time at Eagle Crest Golf Club. This 18-hole, par-72 course offers views of rolling hills and plenty of natural beauty, including waterfalls and lakes that add an extra degree of difficulty. After a round, head to the Eagle Crest Grill, which offers a variety of sandwiches and snacks as well as an array of beer and wine.

Though the residential areas of Cloverdale are tucked away from the rest of Escondido, a quick drive up San Pasqual Valley Road gives quick access to various shops and dining nearby. Residents are also just minutes away from getting a true safari experience with the San Diego Safari Zoo Park nearby.

Written By

Robert Breckenridge

Photography Contributed By

Joerg Boetel

Video By

Bill Jennings