From the outside, the family-run Remont Oxford Hotel could easily be mistaken for a large residential property tucked away behind the hedges and trestled walls of its suburban surroundings. Stepping into the lobby, however, visitors are met with impressive, sleek, modern interiors of polished stone, glass paneling, and funky contemporary flourishes, all designed by the owners themselves. The property is meticulously finished and well maintained, down to the potted shrubbery and manicured lawns in the backyard, yet it preserves the friendly and personal atmosphere common to bed and breakfasts.

The hotel is positioned on a relatively busy road in the northern suburbs of Oxford, a 10-minute drive or bus ride from the city center. The Summertown shopping center, with plenty of bars and restaurants, is a ten-minute walk away, and the hotel's edge-of-town location means easy access to attractions such as Blenheim Palace, about 15 minutes away by car. London is an hour and a half away by car or an hour by train from Oxford. Free parking is available at the B&B.

The hotel's 25 rooms are decorated in a fresh, modern style, with vibrant splashes of color, bold multihued wall art, and clean-line contemporary furnishings. All rooms have double-glazed windows and come with free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities, and flat-screen TVs with 30 channels. Free bottled mineral water is a nice added touch. Bathrooms are clean and modern, with cream-colored tile floors, large mirrors, and either walk-in shower or shower/tub combo. You may want to avoid the Triple Room in the attic -- past guests have complained that it's hot and there isn't an elevator to reach it.

The hotel doesn't have much in the way of communal areas, though the white-walled breakfast room provides a bright and modern, if a little sterile, place to enjoy the free morning meal -- which includes English ingredients. The well-tended and secluded backyard has large grassy lawns and a patio with umbrella-shaded tables. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout and there is a communal computer and printer for guests to use.