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Discover a domain of novel talents combined with amazing places. From rock climbing in the UK to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these adventures provide the perfect combination of education and vacation.

Rock Climbing in the Peak District

Including absolute newcomers will rapidly be ascending sheltered Peak District outcrops on this short session. Attendees will become proficient in tying in, belaying and several methods of ascent, plus abseiling down. With a maximum of six participants to a single guide, there is plenty of individual attention and personalised targets. This program is suitable for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with some gym climbing background. This is a day-only option, but you can find a list of suggested, affordable accommodation in the vicinity, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The venue is a brief walk from the local train station, located on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Weekends from 7 March to November 8th, along with midweek sessions most months.

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a ancient white village in Andalucía, about a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this painting holiday. Painters of all abilities – including novices – will be taught how to plan and create modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent outside, working on structured activities en plein air. These charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be developed in the workspace, with attendees completing multiple interpretive scenes in acrylics to be exhibited in the village. Participants has sole use of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a roof terrace with views over the countryside. The fee covers five days’ art instruction; full board; and an outing to the nearby fortress and other local sights.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Culinary in the Algarve

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, based at a riverside villa in the inland Portuguese region, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Guests will learn to produce selection of small dishes, attend a falafel-making workshop, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a local vineyard to sample Portuguese wines, along with free time for walks by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or swim in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an uplifting, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, then three 90-minute classes teaching different street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to demonstrate those solos. Participants are split into levels according to ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include lodging but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into central London.

Cost: 245 pounds for three days; upcoming session April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Break in St Ives

St Ives is the ideal setting for a maritime music retreat. Guests will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. There will be voice exercises, breath control techniques, performance tips and a closing performance. The retreat is held in a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. Full board are provided, such as a traditional tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not provided. All together now: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer an experienced instructor conducts the daily workshops on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to sending manuscripts to agents. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the start and finish of the retreat. The holiday is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – 10 private accommodations surround a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to share). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

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

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering sustainability: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day introduction will help participants get to grips with the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the biology of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to de-stress in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is £80, and full-board accommodation for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or those with some knowledge who want a skills update. Participants can hone their steering, strengthen their seamanship and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and residential packages, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The day option includes packed lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be