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Uncover a world of fresh abilities alongside stunning places. From rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these particular journeys deliver a superb blend of learning and escape.

Cliff Scaling in the Peaks

Even complete beginners will quickly be ascending protected Peak District rock faces on this short session. Participants will become proficient in tying in, belaying and a range of climbing techniques, as well as descending. Limited to six learners to a single guide, there is a lot of personalized coaching and personalised targets. This program is open to all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with a bit of indoor experience. This is a non-residential option, but there is a list of suggested, reasonably-priced accommodation close by, including campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and pubs with rooms. The base is 10 minutes’ walk from Bamford railway station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Weekends from March 7th to 8 November, and midweek sessions most months.

Modern Art in Spain

Moclín, a picturesque white village in southern Spain, about a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of all abilities – including novices – will discover how to conceive and execute abstract artworks. Part of the schedule will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities in the open. These sketches and paintings will then be worked on in the studio, with attendees completing a number of interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be shown in the local community. Participants has exclusive access of the hotel, which is built around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the countryside. The fee includes five days’ art instruction; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and additional local sights.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in Portugal

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, set on a riverside villa in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Guests will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains such as a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are visits to the village market and a nearby winery to sample local vintages, plus free time for strolls by the nearby river, to relax on the deck or take a dip in the infinity pool. The villa, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, welcoming three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a high-energy warm-up session, then three 90-minute classes covering various urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off new moves. Dancers are divided into groups according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or teachers. The camp 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 three days; next course 7-9 April.

Sea Shanty Weekend in St Ives

St Ives is the ideal spot for a maritime music retreat. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. There will be voice exercises, breathing exercises, performance tips and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a country house overlooking St Ives Bay. All meals are included, including a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and evening meals. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Author and tutor Greg Mosse conducts the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from plot, characters, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to agents. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the start and finish of the week. The holiday is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – ten private accommodations are set around a central garden with a pool (companions are encouraged to share). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a final meal.

Cost: From 893 pounds per person for seven nights (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day introduction will help participants understand the basics of beekeeping, explore the biology of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to relax in the centre's sustainably managed forests, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is £97.

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

Yachting for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Sailors can hone their steering, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the recognized levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential packages, staying in simple dorms in the waterfront sailing school. The non-residential package provides lunches, while the residential package includes two nights' stay and all meals, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

Cost: Starting at 299 pounds. Weekends on July 18th-20th and 4-6 September.

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

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