Now that the year is coming to a close, I thought it would be the perfect time for one last tour around beautiful Los Altos. Over the past year, I’ve toured you around the city of Los Altos via two other “virtual Los Altos neighborhood tours” (you can find them here and here), and this time, I’ve decided to do something a little different.
By now, we’ve covered most of the neighborhoods within Los Altos’ charming 6.5 square miles. However, for this third tour, I wanted to spotlight one more lesser-known Los Altos neighborhood, a unique area that many people think is part of Los Altos (but technically isn’t!), and a few nearby communities that still capture the essence of Los Altos’ exceptional lifestyle.
This blog will give you an insider’s edge as a potential homebuyer. Many of these places might not appear in a simple online search for “Los Altos real estate” or “Los Altos homes for sale,” so pay close attention — this tour is packed with valuable insights that could lead you to your dream Silicon Valley home!
My mission as your REALTOR® is to guide you to the perfect home in a community that inspires and energizes you — the ideal match! Keep reading to learn interesting details about these Los Altos and adjacent Los Altos neighborhoods.
Loyola Corners: A Quaint Hub of Activity
First, let’s head to the only neighborhood on this tour that is 100% without any question, Los Altos. Nestled off Foothill Expressway, Loyola Corners is a small, inviting neighborhood adjacent to Central Los Altos. It’s a community that feels like a hidden treasure, offering convenience and charm in equal measure.
The centerpiece of the neighborhood is the Loyola Corners Shopping Center, a bustling hub that is home to beloved local establishments. Here, you’ll find everything from a bike store to a dance school, making it a dynamic and family-friendly space. Food lovers will enjoy Tom’s Depot, a classic American diner perfect for breakfast or lunch, and Cafe Vitale, a popular spot for Italian cuisine.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Loyola Corners is close to Heritage Oaks Park, a peaceful green space that’s ideal for picnics, walks, or simply relaxing under the shade of its iconic oak trees. The neighborhood also boasts practical amenities like a post office and small medical practices, making it charming and convenient.
Loyola: A Hidden Gem with a Rich History
Most people do not know this, but Loyola is a neighborhood with a unique distinction, it’s technically a census-designated place. This means it is unincorporated in Los Altos and may not appear in your typical online search for Los Altos homes. However, homes in Loyola do carry Los Altos addresses, blending seamlessly into the city’s fabric. You’d be surprised how many Los Altos locals don’t even know that Loyola is technically separate from Los Altos!
One of Loyola's standout features is its connection to history and innovation. Did you know this neighborhood is home to the “Facebook House”? This unassuming property served as Facebook’s very first headquarters, giving Loyola a quirky claim to fame in Silicon Valley lore.
The Country Club neighborhood, which I’ve mentioned in a previous blog, is also entirely within Loyola. Known for its serene ambiance and lush greenery, this area offers a retreat-like setting for residents. Proximity to the Los Altos Golf & Country Club adds a touch of luxury for those who enjoy the sport or the community activities offered there.
Los Altos Hills: Space, Nature, and Proximity
“Los Altos” is in the name so you knew we’d have to make our way over to the hills! Los Altos Hills is synonymous with luxury, privacy, and space. But what many people don’t realize is how integrated parts of this community are with the Los Altos lifestyle.
Where is Los Altos Hills located in relation to Los Altos? While some areas of Los Altos Hills extend further west into the foothills, there are several sections—especially east of I-280—that are incredibly close to Downtown Los Altos and Los Altos High School. These areas give you the best of both worlds, the serenity and space of Los Altos Hills with the convenience and vibrancy of being near town.
Los Altos Hills residents enjoy unparalleled access to nearby nature preserves, making it a haven for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. If you dream of more room to breathe while staying connected to all that Los Altos offers, this neighborhood might be your perfect match.
Blossom Valley, Mountain View: A Seamless Blend
Now it is time for our tour to exit the areas that have “Los Altos” in their address. Neighboring Blossom Valley, located in Mountain View but has Los Altos Schools, shares a striking resemblance to Central Los Altos in both its homes and lifestyle. In fact, it’s not uncommon to double-check the street signs to determine if you’re in Los Altos or Mountain View!
With tree-lined streets, smaller lots, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a desirable choice for families or anyone seeking a calm environment with the conveniences of nearby shopping and dining. Your dollar can stretch a bit longer here compared to Los Altos, which is often right across the street in this neighborhood. So if you’re priced out of the Los Altos zip codes, don’t worry, take a look at Blossom Valley!
Gemello, Mountain View: North Los Altos’s Neighbor
Tucked away next to North Los Altos, Gemello is a small Mountain View neighborhood that offers a fantastic location. It’s close to Los Altos High School and just minutes from Downtown Los Altos, giving residents easy access to highly-rated schools and charming shops. It’s truly an amazing opportunity for those wanting close accessibility to the coveted North Los Altos lifestyle.
The Gemello neighborhood also includes the commercial area at the intersection of El Monte Avenue and El Camino Real. Here you’ll find a variety of dining and shopping options, including familiar favorites like Panera Bread, Starbucks, and Chipotle, as well as specialty stores like Swetka’s Tennis Shop. Gemello borders El Camino Real, so it also offers convenient accessibility to nearby Downtown Mountain View, even further expanding your selection of shopping and dining options. For those who value proximity to everyday amenities and the allure of Los Altos, Gemello is an ideal choice.
Cuesta Park, Mountain View: A Recreational Haven
Stretching from Central Los Altos to El Camino Real, Cuesta Park is a vibrant and family-friendly neighborhood in Mountain View. Its namesake park, Cuesta Park, is a highlight of the area. With tennis courts, open spaces, and barbecue areas perfect for gatherings, it’s a hub of community activity.
Cuesta Park is also home to a local YMCA, which offers swimming facilities and a wide range of fitness programs. Nearby, the El Camino Health - Mountain View Hospital is a standout institution, ranked #25 in California by U.S. News & World Report.
The neighborhood combines recreation, health, and community, making it a great option for those who value an active lifestyle and proximity to Los Altos zip codes.
That wraps up our tour! I hope you enjoyed exploring a few more neighborhoods that capture the essence of Los Altos’ exceptional lifestyle with me today. There’s always more to discover and appreciate in and around the beautiful city of Los Altos!
Whether you're considering Los Altos, Los Altos Hills, or a neighboring community, the key is finding what works best for you and your family. If you're ready to explore the incredible neighborhoods of Los Altos and take the next step toward your dream home, let’s connect! Together, we’ll make it happen and find the perfect place for you to call home.
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Susan Sims, Broker-Associate
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The Agency Los Altos
