Claremont and Claremont Hills
Claremont
After the San Francisco earthquake of 1906, many people left San Francisco for the East Bay. In the years following the quake, the real estate firm of Mason McDuffie built some impressive neighborhoods, and we think that the Claremont neighborhood is a stunning example of a great planned neighborhood. The houses here are stately, the lots seem larger than other parts of Berkeley, and the settings are lush and regal. The houses in the Claremont Court area of the Claremont are simply spectacular, each different, each appealing in a different way. Many of these grand houses have a grand pedigree, from famous architect such as Julia Morgan, William Worsted, and Walter Radcliff.
The centerpiece of the Claremont neighborhood is the Claremont Hotel. This lovely, all white hotel holds court above Berkeley. It currently features a hotel, spa, and a members only/hotel guests athletic club. The hotel was built in 1915 on 22 acres of prime property. Inside the hotel are a series of wonderful historic photos of the hotel, and the Sunday Brunch service is an absolute delight.
Claremont Hills
Some of the real estate industry refers to the Claremont Hills as the “firestorm area”. After the tragic firestorm in 1991, many of the upper portions of the Claremont hills were rebuilt. From the two tunnel road entrances, Bridge Way and Alvarado Road, the drive to the top of the Claremont hills takes many twists and turns. The older original houses in this neighborhood are grand, and the yards are beautifully maintained. Many of these homes have lovely views. After a few twist and turns you will come to the newer part of the Claremont Hills—the rebuilt areas. There are a myriad of new kinds of architecture here, both traditional and modern design. Many houses have beautiful outlooks of the Claremont Canyon open space, and some have lovely South Bay views. One house on Tunnel Road was built to resemble a saxophone. The houses seem much bigger here, and they are! Behind the Claremont Hills is Hiller Highlands, a luxury condominium community, which is built around a community center. These modern condos have wonderful views, as if you were sitting at the edge of the universe.
