Beloved by its devotees over the past eight decades, Hidden Villa is a 1,600-acre organic farm, woodland open space, educational center and community started by Frank and Josephine Duveneck in 1924. Situated at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountain foothills, the spot has been operated under a non-profit trust since 1960.
The Duvenecks envisioned a place for discussion, reflection and inception of social reform. Hidden Villa claims the oldest operating hostel in the United States, and its Environmental Education Program began in 1970. With volunteer support, it runs summer camps, a summer farm academy and community programs. The organization offers farm tours, cheese-making, cow milking and other activities throughout the year. Hidden Villa teachers are found in classroom programs in Redwood City and Mountain View.
Residential internships relate to animal husbandry, sustainable agriculture, horticulture, education and non-profit administration.
It has a Community Supported Agriculture program, which local residents can become subscribers to and receive weekly deliveries of organically grown produce.
The hostel, which sleeps 34, was renovated in 2001 to use environmentally sustainable technology and design. It is also available for private use under special rates. Other facilities available for rent include the Duveneck Family House, seating 50, and the Dana Center, seating 50.