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Explore a realm of novel talents paired with stunning destinations. From scaling cliffs in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these particular journeys offer the perfect combination of learning and escape.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Even complete newcomers will quickly be climbing protected regional outcrops on this two-day program. Attendees will become proficient in securing the rope, belaying and a range of climbing techniques, as well as abseiling down. With a maximum of six learners to one instructor, there is plenty of one-on-one guidance and personalised targets. The course is appropriate for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with some gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation option, but there is a range of recommended, reasonably-priced places to stay close by, including campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The venue is a brief walk from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Courses from 7 March to November 8th, and weekday courses most months.

Non-Representational Art in Spain

This historic hillside village, a historic town in Andalucía, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating location for this creative getaway. Painters of every skill level – including novices – will learn how to design and produce modern art. Some time will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities out in nature. These charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees completing several abstract landscapes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. Participants has sole use of the venue, which is set around an central patio and has a roof terrace with panoramic vistas over the countryside. The cost covers five days’ painting tuition; full board; and an trip to the nearby fortress and additional points of interest.

Cost: From 1,950 euros for seven nights, May 19th to 26th.

Plant-Based Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched cooking retreat, set on a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Participants will master the art of meze spreads, take part in a falafel-making workshop, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are visits to the village market and a local vineyard to taste local vintages, combined with leisure time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the pool. The villa, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, then several 90-minute classes covering various urban dance forms, then an hour-long jam to demonstrate those solos. Dancers are divided into levels according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to popping and locking, all the way to advanced dancers or instructors. This event doesn’t include lodging but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is under an hour by rail into London.

Cost: 245 pounds for the weekend; next course 7-9 April.

Sea Shanty Break in St Ives

St Ives is the perfect spot for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at composing original ones. There will be voice exercises, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The holiday is based at a country house with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are included, including a Cornish cream tea on arrival, breakfast options, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not provided. All together now: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He covers topics including story structure, characters, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the beginning and end of the retreat. The holiday is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a central garden with a pool (companions are encouraged to share). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the garden and a final meal.

Cost: Starting at £893 per person for one week (for double occupancy), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses covering sustainability: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day course will help participants learn the basics of beekeeping, explore the biology of honeybees and discover their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to de-stress in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Accommodation the night before is £80, and full-board accommodation during the course is £97.

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

Yachting for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Participants can hone their helming, build their nautical skills and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are day-only and overnight options, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterfront sailing school. The day option provides lunches, while the residential package covers two nights' stay and all meals, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

Cost: Starting at 299 pounds. Dates on July 18th-20th and September 4th-6th.

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be