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Discover a domain of new skills combined with stunning locations. From rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Turkey, these adventures offer an ideal combination of education and escape.

Bouldering in the Peaks

Even total beginners will soon be ascending protected Peak District crags on this weekend program. Attendees will learn securing the rope, safety techniques and a range of climbing techniques, as well as rappelling. Capped at six participants to one instructor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and custom goals. The course is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with some indoor experience. This is a day-only course, but there is a list of recommended, affordable accommodation in the vicinity, including campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The venue is 10 minutes’ walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Weekends from March 7th to November 8th, plus weekday courses throughout the year.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

Moclín, a historic white village in Andalucía, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking backdrop for this creative getaway. Painters of every skill level – even beginners – will learn how to plan and create non-representational pieces. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on structured activities out in nature. These sketches and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with participants creating several abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be shown in the village. 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 cost includes five days of painting tuition; full board; and an outing to the local castle and additional points of interest.

Cost: Starting at 1,950 euros for seven nights, May 19th to 26th.

Plant-Based Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, located at a riverside villa in the central Portuguese region, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Participants will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the village market and a local vineyard to sample Portuguese wines, along with free time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the deck or swim in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, welcoming weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, followed by several 90-minute workshops teaching various street dance styles, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off those solos. Participants are divided into groups based on skill level, 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 several hostels and hotels nearby, and it is under an hour by train into central London.

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

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent spot for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, performance tips and a closing performance. The retreat is held in a country house with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are provided, such as a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Grog, unfortunately, is not included. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Writer and tutor an experienced instructor runs the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He explores everything from story structure, characters, setting and suspense, 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 holiday is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – ten private accommodations surround a central garden with a pool (non-writing partners are welcome to share). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From 893 pounds per person for one week (for double occupancy), 11-18 August.

Beginners' Apiculture in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This two-day course will help attendees get to grips with the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the biology of honeybees and discover their environmental benefits. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the organization's carefully maintained woodlands, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is £97.

Cost: £248. 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 Blackwater estuary. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their helming, build their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight options, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package provides packed lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

Cost: From 299 pounds. Weekends on 18-20 July and 4-6 September.

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be