Look out from the 35-foot front porch of Carrington's Bluff, where the woodsy yard takes a sharp drop to meet rippling Shoal Creek, and it's not difficult to imagine what it was like to live on this estate 115 years ago. Then, this Texas farmhouse was on the edge of no-man's-land---the line between the settlement of Austin and Indian country. There's still the hint of wilderness about this place, though it is only seven blocks from the University of Texas and nine from the State Capitol.

The decor here is country English, complete with Laura Ashley prints in the guest rooms; the English atmosphere is also carried out with tea and coffee service, including the inn's own grind. Rooms include Guest rooms are divided between the Main House, Margaret's Carriage Cottage and the Writers Cottage where guest rooms are named for local scribes. The largest accommodation is Margaret's Carriage Cottage, a two-story suite that includes a living area, half bath, full kitchen and two bedrooms.

For many guests, afternoons here are spend relaxing on the large porch, viewing a 500-year-old oak tree. Guests can arrange for in-room massages, bicycle rentals, or golf or tennis nearby.

Location: 1900 David St., Austin

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