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Uncover a realm of novel talents alongside stunning places. From rock climbing in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these adventures deliver a superb combination of education and vacation.

Bouldering in the Peaks

Including absolute novices will rapidly be ascending protected Peak District rock faces on this two-day session. Attendees will master tying in, safety techniques and several climbing techniques, as well as abseiling down. With a maximum of six learners to each tutor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and custom goals. This program is suitable for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with limited indoor experience. It is non-residential course, but you can find a range of recommended, budget-friendly places to stay nearby, including campsites, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The training centre is a short stroll from the local train station, located on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Weekends from March 7th to November 8th, along with midweek sessions throughout the year.

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a historic hillside village in southern Spain, about a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – including beginners – will discover how to plan and create modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on tutorials out in nature. These initial sketches and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the studio, with participants completing a number of abstract landscapes in acrylics to be shown in the local community. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is built around an open courtyard and has a roof terrace with views over the countryside. The price encompasses five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an excursion to the local castle and other local sights.

Cost: From €1,950 for one week, 19-26 May.

Plant-Based Culinary in the Algarve

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, based at a riverside villa in the central Algarve, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Attendees will master the art of meze spreads, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the village market and a nearby winery to taste Portuguese wines, along with leisure time for strolls by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The villa, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, as well as safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, welcoming three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format each day is a high-energy warm-up session, followed by three 90-minute workshops teaching various urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off new moves. Participants are divided into groups based on skill level, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to popping and locking, all the way to advanced dancers or teachers. This event does not provide lodging but there are several places to stay nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

Cost: 245 pounds for the weekend; upcoming session 7-9 April.

Sea Shanty Break in St Ives

St Ives is the perfect location for a maritime music retreat. Participants will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. The schedule includes voice exercises, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The holiday is held in a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. Full board are provided, including a traditional tea on arrival, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, alas, is not included. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

Cost: From £429. Dates 31 January-3 February and October 31st to November 3rd.

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor an experienced instructor leads the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores topics including plot, character development, locations and tension, to submitting work to publishers. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the start and finish of the retreat. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a garden and pool (non-writing partners are welcome to share). On the last night, budding authors celebrate with a concert in the garden and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From £893 per person for one week (based on two sharing), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees understand the basics of apiary management, explore the life cycle of honeybees and discover their environmental benefits. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to de-stress in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Novices in Essex

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a skills update. Participants can hone their helming, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option provides packed lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Paphos

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be