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Discover a realm of new skills alongside amazing places. Starting with rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these particular adventures deliver a superb combination of education and escape.

Bouldering in the Peak District

Including total newcomers will soon be ascending sheltered regional rock faces on this weekend course. Participants will become proficient in securing the rope, belaying and multiple climbing techniques, plus descending. With a maximum of six participants to a single guide, there is a lot of one-on-one guidance and custom goals. This program is suitable for anyone aged 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with limited indoor experience. It is day-only option, but there is a range of recommended, budget-friendly accommodation close by, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The venue is 10 minutes’ walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Spain

This historic hillside village, a historic hillside village in southern Spain, around 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the inspiring setting for this art retreat. Participants of all abilities – even beginners – will learn how to design and produce abstract artworks. Some time will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities out in nature. These charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be worked on in the workspace, with guests completing multiple interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the local community. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is built around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the countryside. The cost encompasses five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an trip to the local castle and other points of interest.

Cost: Starting at 1,950 euros for one week, 19-26 May.

Ottolenghi-Inspired Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, based at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Attendees will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses such as spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are visits to the local market and a nearby winery to sample local vintages, plus leisure time for walks by the Funcho River, to relax on the deck or swim in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, inclusive three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, then three 90-minute classes covering various street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to show off new moves. Dancers are divided into groups according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to street dance, all the way to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp does not provide accommodation but there are several hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

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

Maritime Singing Weekend in St Ives

This coastal town is the excellent spot for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and have a go at composing original ones. There will be vocal warmups, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a rural hotel overlooking St Ives Bay. Full board are included, including a Cornish cream tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Author and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the start and finish of the retreat. 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 (companions are welcome to come along). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

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

Beginners' Beekeeping in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of programs covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day course will help participants understand the fundamentals of apiary management, study the life cycle of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to relax in the centre's sustainably managed forests, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Accommodation the night before is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging during the course is £97.

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

Yachting for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Sailors can hone their steering, build their nautical skills and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and overnight options, staying in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package includes packed lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Paphos

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