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Explore a realm of new skills combined with stunning destinations. From rock climbing in Britain to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these adventures deliver an ideal mix of learning and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the Peak District

Including complete novices will quickly be climbing protected Peak District outcrops on this weekend course. Attendees will master securing the rope, safety techniques and a range of methods of ascent, plus rappelling. Capped at six learners to a single guide, there is plenty of personalized coaching and tailored objectives. This program is open to all individuals aged 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with limited indoor experience. This is a day-only option, but there is a range of suggested, affordable places to stay nearby, including campsites, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The base is a brief walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Courses from 7 March to November 8th, and midweek sessions throughout the year.

Modern Art in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a ancient white village in Andalucía, about a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this painting holiday. Painters of all abilities – even novices – will learn how to conceive and execute non-representational pieces. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on tutorials en plein air. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be developed in the studio, with attendees creating multiple abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be shown in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is built around an central patio and has a roof terrace with views over the hills. The fee covers five days of art instruction; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and additional local sights.

Cost: From 1,950 euros for seven nights, 19-26 May.

Plant-Based Culinary in Portugal

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, located at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Attendees will learn to produce meze spreads, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the village market and a local vineyard to taste Portuguese wines, along with free time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the pool. The villa, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, as well as safari tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an uplifting, welcoming three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, followed by several 90-minute classes teaching different urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off new moves. Participants are split into groups based on 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 several places to stay within walking distance, and it is under an hour by train into London.

Cost: £245 for three days; upcoming session April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Weekend in St Ives

This coastal town is the ideal spot for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will learn historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The retreat is held in a rural hotel with views of the bay. Full board are provided, such as a traditional tea on the first day, breakfast options, lunches to go and evening meals. Traditional rum, alas, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor an experienced instructor conducts the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He covers topics including story structure, characters, setting and suspense, to sending manuscripts to agents. A co-host, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the beginning and end of the week. The holiday is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – ten private accommodations surround a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the final evening, aspiring writers celebrate with a musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

Cost: Starting at 893 pounds per person for seven nights (for double occupancy), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of programs on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This weekend introduction will help attendees understand the fundamentals of apiary management, study the biology of honeybees and discover their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to de-stress in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and full-board accommodation during the course is £97.

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

Sailing for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are aimed at novice sailors starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Participants can hone their helming, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential options, staying in simple dorms in the waterfront sailing school. The day option provides lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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