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Discover a world of fresh abilities alongside amazing locations. Starting with rock climbing in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these particular experiences offer the perfect combination of learning and holiday.

Cliff Scaling in the Peaks

Including total novices will quickly be scaling sheltered regional outcrops on this two-day program. Attendees will become proficient in securing the rope, safety techniques and multiple methods of ascent, plus descending. Capped at six learners to a single guide, there is a lot of individual attention and custom goals. This program is suitable for anyone over the age of 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with a bit of gym climbing background. This is a non-residential option, but there is a selection of suggested, affordable places to stay in the vicinity, including campsites, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The training centre is a brief walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Modern Art in Andalucía

Moclín, a ancient hillside village in southern Spain, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this creative getaway. Participants of every skill level – including beginners – will be taught how to conceive and execute modern art. Some time will be spent in the open air, working on guided exercises en plein air. These initial sketches and watercolour studies will then be developed in the workspace, with attendees completing a number of interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the village. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is set around an open courtyard and has a roof terrace with views over the countryside. The price includes five days of art instruction; full board; and an excursion to the nearby fortress and other local sights.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, located at a villa by the river in the central Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Guests will learn to produce meze spreads, attend a hands-on falafel session, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, combined with free time for walks by the nearby river, to relax on the deck or swim in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, as well as safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, welcoming weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a high-energy warm-up session, followed by three 90-minute classes teaching various street dance styles, then an hour-long jam to show off new moves. Participants are split into groups according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to street dance, all the way to experienced performers or teachers. This event does not provide accommodation but there are a number of places to stay nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

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

Maritime Singing Weekend in St Ives

This coastal town is the ideal spot for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and have a go at composing original ones. There will be voice exercises, breathing exercises, performance tips and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are provided, such as a Cornish cream tea on arrival, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, is not included. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Author and lecturer an experienced instructor conducts the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores everything from plot, character development, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to agents. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the start and finish of the week. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – ten private accommodations surround a garden and pool (non-writing partners are encouraged to share). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a final meal.

Cost: From £893 per person for seven nights (for double occupancy), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Beekeeping in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of courses covering eco-living: from creating habitats to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees get to grips with the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the biology of honeybees and discover their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the centre's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Beginners in Essex

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can hone their steering, strengthen their seamanship and work towards the recognized levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are day-only and overnight options, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the residential package covers two nights' stay and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Paphos

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be