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Uncover a domain of new skills alongside incredible destinations. From scaling cliffs in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these journeys deliver an ideal combination of learning and vacation.

Bouldering in the National Park

Even absolute beginners will quickly be scaling protected Peak District rock faces on this two-day program. Participants will become proficient in tying in, belaying and a range of methods of ascent, plus abseiling down. Limited to six participants to one instructor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and tailored objectives. The course is open to all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with a bit of gym climbing background. This is a non-residential option, but you can find a range of recommended, affordable places to stay nearby, featuring campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The training centre is 10 minutes’ walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a picturesque white village in Andalucía, about a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this art retreat. Participants of all abilities – even novices – will be taught how to conceive and execute modern art. A portion of the time will be spent outside, working on structured activities out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees creating a number of interpretive scenes in acrylics to be exhibited in the village. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a rooftop with panoramic vistas over the countryside. The cost encompasses five days’ painting tuition; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and additional local sights.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in Portugal

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, located at a villa by the river in the inland Portuguese region, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Attendees will master the art of meze spreads, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are visits to the village market and a local vineyard to sample Portuguese wines, combined with free time for strolls 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 grounds.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, welcoming weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style warm-up session, followed by several hour-and-a-half classes covering different urban dance forms, then an hour-long jam to show off new moves. Dancers are split into groups according to skill level, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to street dance, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. This event doesn’t include lodging but there are a number of hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into London.

Cost: 245 pounds for the weekend; upcoming session 7-9 April.

Maritime Singing Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the excellent location for a maritime music retreat. Participants 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 held in a rural hotel overlooking St Ives Bay. All meals are included, such as a traditional tea on arrival, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not provided. All together now: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse conducts the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers topics including story structure, character development, locations and suspense, to submitting work to publishers. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the beginning and end of the retreat. The retreat is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a central garden with a pool (non-writing partners are welcome to come along). On the final evening, budding authors mark the occasion with a musical performance in the garden and a final meal.

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

Beginners' Apiculture in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of programs on sustainability: from creating habitats to upcycling. This weekend course will help attendees understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the life cycle of honeybees and learn about their ecological importance. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to de-stress in the centre's sustainably managed woodlands, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the night before is £80, and full-board accommodation during the course is £97.

Cost: 248 pounds. 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 estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Participants can improve their helming, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are day-only and residential options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package includes packed lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights' stay and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

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