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Discover a world of fresh abilities alongside incredible locations. From rock climbing in the UK to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these particular experiences offer an ideal combination of learning and vacation.

Bouldering in the Peaks

Including absolute newcomers will rapidly be scaling sheltered Peak District crags on this two-day session. Participants will learn tying in, safety techniques and a range of climbing techniques, along with rappelling. Capped at six participants to a single guide, there is significant one-on-one guidance and custom goals. The course is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with a bit of indoor experience. It is non-accommodation option, but there is a list of suggested, reasonably-priced places to stay nearby, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The training centre is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, located on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Weekends from March 7th to 8 November, and weekday courses most months.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a picturesque white village in Andalucía, about 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the breathtaking backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of every skill level – including beginners – will learn how to conceive and execute non-representational pieces. Part of the schedule will be spent outside, working on tutorials en plein air. These sketches and paintings will then be developed in the studio, with participants producing multiple interpretive scenes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. Participants has sole use of the hotel, which is centered on an central patio and has a sun terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The price encompasses five days’ art instruction; all meals; and an trip to the nearby fortress and other points of interest.

Cost: Starting at 1,950 euros for seven nights, 19-26 May.

Plant-Based Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, located at a riverside villa in the inland Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of meze spreads, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the local market and a nearby winery to taste local vintages, combined with leisure time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the deck or swim in the infinity pool. The accommodation, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

Cost: From 900 euros for a five-day retreat. Available from March 20th, 8 May, September 11th and November 13th.

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a party-style warm-up session, followed by three 90-minute classes teaching various street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to demonstrate new moves. Participants are split into levels according to ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to street dance, right up to experienced performers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include accommodation but there are a number of places to stay nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into central London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in St Ives

This coastal town is the ideal spot for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will be taught historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a country house with views of St Ives Bay. Full board are provided, such as a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

Cost: Starting at £429. Dates 31 January-3 February and 31 October-3 November.

Writing in Greece

Author and tutor an experienced instructor runs the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He covers everything from story structure, characters, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the beginning and end of the week. The holiday is based at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – 10 private accommodations are set around a garden and pool (non-writing partners are welcome to come along). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a final meal.

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

Introduction to Beekeeping in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a host of courses on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help participants understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to relax in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging during the course is £97.

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

Sailing for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at adult beginners starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their helming, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the recognized levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight options, staying in simple dorms in the waterfront training centre. The day option provides lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

Cost: Starting at £299. Weekends on 18-20 July and 4-6 September.

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Paphos

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