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Explore a domain of fresh abilities combined with stunning locations. Starting with scaling cliffs in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these experiences deliver a superb mix of learning and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Even absolute beginners will quickly be climbing sheltered Peak District rock faces on this weekend session. Participants will learn tying in, safety techniques and several climbing techniques, along with rappelling. With a maximum of six participants to each tutor, there is a lot of one-on-one guidance and custom goals. This program is suitable for all individuals aged 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with limited gym climbing background. This is a non-accommodation course, but you can find a range of recommended, reasonably-priced places to stay nearby, including campsites, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The venue is a brief walk from the local train station, which is on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for the weekend. Weekends from 7 March to 8 November, along with weekday courses most months.

Abstract Painting in Spain

This historic hillside village, a picturesque hillside village in southern Spain, about 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this creative getaway. Painters of all abilities – including novices – will be taught how to design and produce abstract artworks. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on guided exercises in the open. These sketches and paintings will then be developed in the studio, with guests completing several abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the village. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an central patio and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The cost encompasses five days’ art instruction; full board; and an trip to the local castle and other local sights.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, set on a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Attendees will learn to produce meze spreads, take part in a falafel-making workshop, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the local market and a nearby winery to sample Portuguese wines, along with leisure time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or take a dip in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, then several hour-and-a-half classes covering different street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to demonstrate those solos. Participants are split into groups according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or instructors. The camp doesn’t include lodging but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is under an hour by rail into London.

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

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the ideal spot for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will learn traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at writing their own. There will be voice exercises, breath control techniques, performance tips and a closing performance. The retreat is based at a rural hotel overlooking St Ives Bay. Full board are provided, including a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not included. All together now: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Writer and tutor Greg Mosse leads the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, character development, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the start and finish of the week. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 private accommodations surround a garden and pool (non-writing partners are welcome to come along). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a final meal.

Cost: Starting at 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 wide range of courses covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day course will help participants get to grips with the basics of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to relax in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or those with some knowledge who want a skills update. Sailors can improve their helming, build their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and overnight packages, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the overnight option 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.

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

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