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Uncover a domain of fresh abilities paired with stunning locations. From rock climbing in Britain to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these journeys deliver the perfect blend of learning and holiday.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Even absolute beginners will rapidly be climbing protected regional rock faces on this two-day course. Attendees will become proficient in tying in, belaying and multiple methods of ascent, as well as abseiling down. Capped at six learners to one instructor, there is plenty of individual attention and personalised targets. The training is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with a bit of indoor experience. This is a non-residential option, but there is a list of suggested, budget-friendly places to stay nearby, featuring campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The venue is a short stroll from Bamford railway station, located on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Weekends from 7 March to 8 November, along with midweek sessions most months.

Non-Representational Art in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a historic town in Andalucía, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the inspiring backdrop for this creative getaway. Artists of all abilities – even beginners – will be taught how to plan and create non-representational pieces. A portion of the time will be spent in the open air, working on tutorials out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with participants producing multiple interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is built around an central patio and has a roof terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The price includes five days of art instruction; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and additional points of interest.

Cost: Starting at €1,950 for one week, May 19th to 26th.

Ottolenghi-Inspired Culinary in Portugal

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, based at a riverside villa in the central Algarve, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Attendees will learn to produce selection of small dishes, attend a falafel-making workshop, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a local vineyard to taste Portuguese wines, combined with leisure time for strolls by the Funcho River, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, plus glamping tents in the grounds.

Cost: Starting at €900 for five days. Dates from March 20th, 8 May, 11 September and 13 November.

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an energizing, welcoming weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, then three 90-minute classes covering different street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to demonstrate new moves. Participants are divided into levels according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to popping and locking, all the way to experienced performers or teachers. This event does not provide lodging but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

Cost: £245 for three days; next course April 7th to 9th.

Sea Shanty Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent spot for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and try their hand at composing original ones. There will be vocal warmups, breath control techniques, performance tips and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a country house with views of St Ives Bay. Full board are included, including a Cornish cream tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not included. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

Cost: From 429 pounds. Available January 31st to February 3rd and October 31st to November 3rd.

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor Greg Mosse conducts the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He covers everything from story structure, character development, locations and tension, to submitting work to agents. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the beginning and end of the week. The holiday is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 private accommodations surround a central garden with a pool (companions are welcome to come along). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a concert in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From 893 pounds per person for one week (for double occupancy), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering sustainability: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day introduction will help participants learn the basics of beekeeping, study the biology of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to relax in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is 97 pounds.

Cost: 248 pounds. Sessions on May 30th-31st and 5-6 September.

Yachting for Novices in Essex

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their steering, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential packages, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The day option provides packed lunches, while the residential package covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

Cost: From £299. Dates on July 18th-20th and 4-6 September.

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

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