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Uncover a realm of novel talents combined with incredible locations. Starting with scaling cliffs in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these experiences deliver the perfect mix of education and escape.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Including absolute newcomers will soon be climbing sheltered regional outcrops on this short program. Participants will master tying in, belaying and a range of methods of ascent, as well as abseiling down. Limited to a half-dozen students to each tutor, there is a lot of individual attention and tailored objectives. The course is suitable for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with a bit of indoor experience. It is non-residential course, but there is a range of suggested, affordable places to stay nearby, including campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The base is a short stroll from the local train station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a picturesque white village in southern Spain, around 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this creative getaway. Participants of all abilities – even beginners – will learn how to design and produce abstract artworks. Some time will be spent outdoors, working on guided exercises out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with guests creating multiple abstract landscapes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. The group has sole use of the hotel, which is centered on an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The fee includes five days’ painting tuition; full board; and an excursion to the nearby fortress and other local sights.

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

Vegetarian Cooking in Portugal

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, based at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Attendees will learn to produce selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the local market and a nearby winery to sample local vintages, along with free time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the infinity pool. The accommodation, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, welcoming three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a high-energy warm-up session, then several hour-and-a-half classes covering different street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to demonstrate new moves. Dancers are split into groups based on skill level, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to street dance, right up to advanced dancers or instructors. This event does not provide lodging but there are a number of hostels and hotels nearby, and it is under an hour by train into central London.

Cost: 245 pounds for three days; next course April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the perfect setting for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will learn traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and try their hand at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breath control techniques, performance tips and a closing performance. The holiday is based at a country house overlooking St Ives Bay. All meals are provided, such as a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals. Traditional rum, alas, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Author and lecturer an experienced instructor conducts the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from plot, characters, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the beginning and end of the week. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – 10 private accommodations surround a garden and pool (non-writing partners are welcome to share). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a farewell dinner.

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

Introduction to Apiculture 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 attendees get to grips with the basics of beekeeping, study the life cycle of bees and discover their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to relax in the organization's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in Essex

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and keelboats 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 improve their helming, build their seamanship and aim for the recognized levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and overnight options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the residential package includes two nights' stay and full board, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Paphos

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