Portola Valley hugs the western edge of Silicon Valley. It has an open and outdoor feel and a slightly rural sensibility. Living here means you are a bit farther away from shopping than in other communities. But what you lose in commerce, you gain in natural space. Lots are at least 1 acre except in the Ladera area, and many properties have views.

The town has plenty of conveniences, though. There are grocery stores, a few restaurants, and Portola Valley’s architectural-award-winning town center, which includes a library, playing fields, and a community center and hosts concerts and a farmers market.

There is a great sense of community in Portola Valley. Residents love the naturalness of their town and are dedicated to preserving the landscape. With great schools, a wonderful cycling community, and an equestrian community around the Portola Valley Training Center, there is something for everyone.

 

The Ladera section of Portola Valley is the closest to the amenities of Menlo Park and Palo Alto. It offers ranch-style homes on 8–12,000-square-foot lots. Homes in desirable central Portola Valley are of various architectural styles, and there is contemporary construction in Westridge. Portola Valley Ranch is a neighborhood of modern homes attached to a community center and trails for those who like the wildness of the area but want to minimize yard duties.

 

 • Neighborhoods and Maps