Poppy Ln, Orinda

For those of the fabulously rich who like to feel themselves well away from the hustle and bustle of civilization, there is Sundown Terrace. Tucked deep in the “backwoods” of Orinda, this micro neighborhood is largely located along a north facing hill. Living here one definitely has a feel of being away from it al. The large, almost mansion like homes located here usually have good views of the rolling tree covered Contra Costa hills.

Not that this area caters to the typical “country bumpkin.” The sprawling homes often feature pools and tennis courts as part of their features. Unlike some of the other neighborhoods in the area, the homes here spread out enough where the nearest neighbors might only be around the corner and out of sight or where only a handful of neighborhoods might share a particular stretch. You rarely catch sight of more than two homes on the same street at the same time. This is still hillside living which means a fair number of car ports and hikes down to the homes below or hikes up to those above.

Sundown Terrace, however, is not far up into the mountains; it is more of a hill really. So, although you have some problems with erosion as you might have on the western end of Orinda, these are less pronounced here. On the other hand, because you are deep into the woody uninhabited area near the Breones Reservoir you do get a fair number of wild, furry visitors especially at night. Skunks, raccoons, and deer are the most common interlopers along with stray cats, but occasionally you will find evidence of other kinds of creatures.

Overall, a great spot for families (Sleepy Hollow elementary and the schools of Orinda in general are great) and for those that love to feel as if they are living out in nature. If you can afford it, of course. (Most homes here average 1.7 Mil.)