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Discover a realm of fresh abilities combined with stunning destinations. From rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these journeys offer the perfect mix of education and holiday.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Including complete newcomers will soon be scaling protected Peak District outcrops on this two-day program. Attendees will become proficient in securing the rope, belaying and a range of methods of ascent, along with rappelling. With a maximum of six participants to each tutor, there is significant personalized coaching and tailored objectives. The course is suitable for all individuals aged 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with some indoor experience. This is a day-only option, but you can find a range of recommended, reasonably-priced places to stay nearby, including campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The venue is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, which is on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Weekends from March 7th to 8 November, plus midweek sessions most months.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

Moclín, a ancient town in Andalucía, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of all abilities – even novices – will be taught how to plan and create non-representational pieces. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on guided exercises in the open. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be developed in the studio, with attendees completing several interpretive scenes in acrylics to be shown in the local community. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an central patio and has a rooftop with panoramic vistas over the countryside. The cost includes five days of art instruction; all meals; and an outing to the nearby fortress and other local sights.

Cost: Starting at €1,950 for one week, 19-26 May.

Plant-Based Culinary in the Algarve

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, set on a riverside villa in the inland Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Participants will master the art of selection of small dishes, attend a hands-on falafel session, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains such as spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, plus leisure time for walks by the nearby river, to relax on the deck or take a dip in the infinity pool. The villa, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, as well as glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, then three 90-minute workshops teaching various street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Dancers are divided into levels according to ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or instructors. The camp does not provide accommodation but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the perfect spot for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will learn historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and have a go at composing original ones. The schedule includes voice exercises, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a country house overlooking St Ives Bay. All meals are included, including a Cornish cream tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer an experienced instructor leads the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores topics including story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to submitting work to agents. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the start and finish of the retreat. The retreat is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to share). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a final meal.

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

Beginners' Apiculture in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day course will help attendees understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the life cycle of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to relax in the centre's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the night before is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is £97.

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

Yachting for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can improve their steering, build their seamanship and aim for the recognized certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight packages, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The day option includes packed lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights' stay and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Paphos

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be