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Explore a realm of novel talents alongside amazing locations. From rock climbing in the UK to mosaic-making in Turkey, these particular experiences provide the perfect blend of learning and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Even absolute newcomers will rapidly be ascending protected Peak District outcrops on this two-day program. Attendees will become proficient in securing the rope, belaying and a range of climbing techniques, plus rappelling. With a maximum of a half-dozen students to each tutor, there is plenty of one-on-one guidance and personalised targets. The training is suitable for anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with some indoor experience. This is a day-only course, but there is a range of recommended, affordable accommodation in the vicinity, such as campsites, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The training centre is a short stroll from the local train station, which is on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Courses from 7 March to 8 November, plus weekday courses throughout the year.

Non-Representational Art in Andalucía

Moclín, a ancient white village in southern Spain, about a short drive from Granada, is the inspiring backdrop for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – including beginners – will discover how to plan and create modern art. Some time will be spent outside, working on structured activities in the open. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be developed in the workspace, with participants creating a number of abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the village. The group has sole use of the hotel, which is built around an central patio and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The fee encompasses five days of painting tuition; all meals; and an outing to the nearby fortress and additional local sights.

Cost: Starting at €1,950 for seven nights, May 19th to 26th.

Plant-Based Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, located at a villa by the river in the inland Portuguese region, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Attendees will master the art of meze spreads, attend a falafel-making workshop, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses such as a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the local market and a nearby winery to taste local vintages, combined with free time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the deck or swim in the pool. The villa, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, inclusive three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a party-style warm-up session, then several 90-minute classes covering various urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Participants are split into levels based on skill level, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to street dance, all the way to experienced performers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include lodging but there are several hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is under an hour by train into central London.

Cost: £245 for the weekend; next course April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

St Ives is the perfect location for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and try their hand at writing their own. The schedule includes voice exercises, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The retreat is based at a rural hotel overlooking the bay. Full board are included, including a Cornish cream tea on arrival, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer an experienced instructor leads the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He covers everything from story structure, character development, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to agents. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the start and finish of the week. The retreat is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a central garden with a pool (non-writing partners are encouraged 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 per person for one week (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This two-day course will help participants understand the basics of beekeeping, study the life cycle of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to de-stress in the centre's sustainably managed woodlands, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for novice sailors learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a skills update. Sailors can improve their steering, strengthen their nautical skills and work towards the recognized levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and overnight options, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterfront training centre. The day option provides packed lunches, while the residential package covers two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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