Mayfield Park welcomes you, literally, with the caws of peacocks and a genteel garden and patio spread around a historic home. Quietly beautiful, it is a favorite spot for professional photographers and their polished clients.

The cottage dates from the 1870's. Owned by the Mayfield-Gutsch family from 1909-1971, the Gutsches spent nearly 50 years developing the home and gardens. Their loosely planted flower beds, ornamental shrubs, native Texas palms and exotic birds created a personal and wonderfully eccentric cottage garden.

Part of the Austin Parks and Recreation Department, this sanctuary just 5 minutes from downtown is free. But be aware that private parties can be booked here - it's a perfect setting for a small wedding and reception - at which times you'll be limited to the picnic tables and nature trails.

About those nature trails: The Texas hill country has a beautiful smell of warm dirt, limestone rocks and cedar trees. You'll find that heavenly fragrance on the nature trails at Mayfield Park, and spare yourself the car drive to more rural locations.

Mayfield Park is on the National Register of Historic Places. Dogs and bikes not permitted.