Montclair
Montclair is such an escape from the regular world, with its rustic village setting up in the woods above Highway 13, that you might think you are living in the Sierras or near the banks of Lake Tahoe. But, you are only minutes from the urban excitement of Oakland and San Francisco.
What is now Montclair was once a logging community. In fact, Thornill Road, the neighborhood’s main street taking you up to the hilltops, was once a major logging channel. Because of its mountainous feel, Montclair is reminiscent of an old European village out of a fairy tale. Just look at the firehouse, designed by Julia Morgan to look like a storybook house, with faux snow on its rooftop. This “Hansel and Gretel” style of home can be found throughout the district, along with more modern and eclectic architecture.
Montclair is centered around the Montclair shopping district, which sits mostly along Mountain Boulevard just above Highway 13. There are many mom-and-pop stores and services here, like Montclair Village Hardware (since 1948), Raimondi’s Paint (since 1954). Ken Betts auto repair (circa 1970s) and Le Bonbon Chocolates (since 1977). Plus the restaurants in Montclair will take you around the world, from the US (Crogan’s) to Mexico (El Agavero) to India (Flavors) to Japan (Toshi Sushi) and the best of Europe (Montclair Bistro).
Given the neighborhood’s strong sense of community, it is no surprise that there are many events to enjoy. There is a farmer’s market each Sunday and arts festivals throughout the year. The big event is the annual Montclair Wine and Jazz Festival each September. There are also many parks to enjoy and the nearby Chabot Space and Science Center, a local observatory and science education center for over 125 years!
While it may sound far, Montclair is actually quite convenient to the Rockridge BART station and many highways, plus AC Transit line 689 will whisk you almost anywhere. And, Walkscore.com calls Montclair Village “Very Walkable” But, with so much to offer, your Montclair Village home may also be your mountain vacation getaway!
