Rancho Santa Fe is a unique 10 square mile community in Southern California consisting of approximately 1,740 homes on 6,200 acres, most on lots that are 2 acres or more. Within Rancho Santa Fe is “The Covenant” which refers to the original planned community of Rancho Santa Fe. At the center is a small village with a community library, shops & restaurants, a civic center, a public school, a fantastic community center full of activities for children, a garden club, a senior center and the charming Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. Aesthetics and architecture within The Covenant are protected by an Art Jury. There are no street lights, sidewalks or traffic lights, but there are an abundance of winding roads that slow traffic and contribute to a relaxed lifestyle. Only residents of The Covenant are permitted to belong to the RSF Golf and Tennis Club, located in the heart of The Covenant and regarded as one of the premier golf venues in the western United States.
Rancho Santa Fe is proud of its rich heritage and, in 1989, was designated as a State Historical Landmark. Originally an Indian rancheria, the land called “Rancho San Dieguito” was granted to Juan Maria Osuna, the mayor of San Diego in the mid-1800’s. His family gradually sold off the land and, in 1906, a subsidiary of the Santa Fe Railway purchased all of the land to plant eucalyptus trees for use as railroad ties. When the trees proved unsuitable for ties, the Santa Fe Company hired architect Lillian Rice to plan and design a horse-oriented residential community. She favored the Spanish Colonial Revival style. In 1917, the completion of the Lake Hodges Dam brought water to the area, and construction began in 1922.
Known for its horses, The Covenant features 60 miles of private riding/hiking trails, as well as the RSF Riding Club and Saddle Club. Some of the finest horse trainers in the country live here, and the area was the site for the equestrian events during the 1984 Olympics. Polo is a popular pastime.
Rancho Santa Fe is the home to the R. Roger Rowe Elementary/Middle School and the Solana Santa Fe Elementary, highly-ranked public schools that are a big attraction for families. Communities include: The Covenant, Fairbanks Ranch, Del Mar Country Club, RSF Groves, The Bridges, RSF Farms, Whispering Pines, Cielo and Morgan Run.
