Carmel Valley Real Estate – History and Homes Development Profile
The huge coastal mesa region just north of San Diego hosting Carmel Valley homes was originally occupied by the La Jolla and Ipai Native American peoples. They left many artifacts of archeological significance along and around fresh water sources, including Carmel Creek. With the occupation by Spaniards and later by miners drifting in due to the California gold rush, ranchos, churches and homesteads left defining features on the land.
One of the most significant landmarks of the region was a wonderful adobe Butterfield pony express and stagecoach stop. It remained untouched until the 1970’s. Perhaps a more significant land mark can be identified in the famous Kit Carson Trail that ran through the San Diego North coastal mesa. It marked part of the route Kit Carson took from a Native American uprising in the east to what is now called Old Town San Diego.
Later on, most of the area was used for agriculture and horse farms. Drought tolerant vegetables were cultivated. While crop areas have largely been replaced by such modern developments and The Grand Del Mar Golf Course an other Carmel Valley real estate developments, equestrian activity and horse property remain a part of the region.
Early in the 20th century, the Carmelite Sisters of Mercy established a dairy farm that included a monastery in the region. The complex resided on the south side of Carmel Creek and close to a church. The Carmelite presence and farming activity for many years in the area resulted in the names Carmel Valley and Carmel Mountain that remain with us today.
In the late 20th century, master-planned development of the area started with confining residential building to mesa and canyon tops only. Canyon areas remained untouched. From the beginning, Carmel Valley real estate was designed to reduce sprawl and result in decreased population density and increased community open space.
From its significant historical beginnings until the present this San Diego North coastal mesa region represents an important cultural and community base, cherished by the Native Americans and those that followed. It remains a treasure trove of Carmel Valley homes and vibrant community thanks to the careful planning of developers and commitment to preserve the area’s charm and vitality.
