For something uniquely creative, seek out these four palm-fringed 'art cottages' attached to an artisan pottery warehouse, which occupies a reincarnated 1950s brick-and-tile factory 13km south of Thrissur. Terracotta floors, stylish bathrooms, wooden bed frames and subtle wall art embellish the rooms, and the on-the-ball team also runs a terrace cafe. Guests can join resident artists for clay-pottery workshops.
Book ahead and ask for directions.