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Explore a domain of new skills paired with incredible locations. From scaling cliffs in the UK to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these particular adventures provide an ideal combination of education and vacation.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Even absolute newcomers will soon be ascending protected regional crags on this two-day session. Attendees will become proficient in tying in, belaying and multiple methods of ascent, as well as abseiling down. With a maximum of six learners to a single guide, there is plenty of individual attention and tailored objectives. The course is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with some indoor experience. It is non-accommodation option, but you can find a list of recommended, budget-friendly places to stay in the vicinity, such as campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The base is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, located on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

Moclín, a historic white village in southern Spain, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – even beginners – will learn how to conceive and execute modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities in the open. These initial sketches and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with participants completing multiple abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be shown in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the countryside. The price encompasses five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an excursion to the local castle and additional points of interest.

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

Plant-Based Cooking in the Algarve

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, based at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, 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 brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the local market and a nearby winery to taste Portuguese wines, combined with free time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the infinity pool. The villa, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an uplifting, welcoming three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, followed by three hour-and-a-half workshops covering various street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Dancers are split into groups according to ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include accommodation but there are a number of places to stay nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the perfect location for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at composing original ones. There will be vocal warmups, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a rural hotel overlooking the bay. Full board are provided, including a traditional tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not provided. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Author and lecturer Greg Mosse leads the daily workshops on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from story structure, characters, setting and suspense, to submitting work to agents. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the start and finish of the retreat. The holiday is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – 10 private accommodations surround a central garden with a pool (non-writing partners are encouraged to come along). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a concert in the courtyard and a final meal.

Cost: Starting at £893 per person for one week (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of courses covering eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This two-day course will help participants understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the biology of honeybees and discover their environmental benefits. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to de-stress in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are aimed at novice sailors starting out or those with some knowledge who want a skills update. Participants can hone their steering, 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 residential packages, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The day option provides packed lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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