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Uncover a domain of new skills combined with incredible destinations. From scaling cliffs in Britain to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these particular journeys deliver a superb mix of learning and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Including total newcomers will soon be scaling protected regional outcrops on this short course. Participants will master securing the rope, belaying and a range of climbing techniques, plus descending. Capped at six learners to one instructor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and tailored objectives. The course is appropriate for anyone aged 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with a bit of gym climbing background. It is day-only option, but there is a list of recommended, reasonably-priced accommodation in the vicinity, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The venue is 10 minutes’ walk from Bamford railway station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for the weekend. Courses from March 7th to November 8th, and weekday courses throughout the year.

Non-Representational Art in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a picturesque white village in southern Spain, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating location for this creative getaway. Participants of every skill level – even novices – will be taught how to conceive and execute non-representational pieces. Some time will be spent in the open air, working on guided exercises in the open. These initial sketches and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with guests producing several abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be displayed in the village. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is centered on an central patio and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The fee includes five days of painting tuition; all meals; and an trip to the nearby fortress and other local sights.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in the Algarve

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, located at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Guests will learn to produce meze spreads, take part in a falafel-making workshop, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the village market and a nearby winery to sample Portuguese wines, combined with free time for walks by the nearby river, to relax on the terrace or swim in the infinity pool. The accommodation, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, plus safari tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an uplifting, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, then several 90-minute workshops teaching various urban dance forms, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate 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 advanced dancers or instructors. This event does not provide accommodation but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is under an hour by train into London.

Cost: £245 for three days; next course 7-9 April.

Maritime Singing Break in St Ives

St Ives is the ideal setting for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at writing their own. There will be vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a country house overlooking the bay. Full board are provided, such as a Cornish cream tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not included. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Author and tutor an experienced instructor leads the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores everything from plot, character development, setting and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the beginning and end of the retreat. The retreat is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 private accommodations are set around a garden and pool (non-writing partners are encouraged to come along). On the last night, aspiring writers celebrate with a musical performance in the garden and a final meal.

Cost: From £893 per person for seven nights (based on two sharing), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering sustainability: from creating habitats to upcycling. This weekend course will help participants get to grips with the basics of apiary management, explore the biology of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to de-stress in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is £97.

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

Yachting for Novices in Essex

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Sailors can improve their helming, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and overnight options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterfront sailing school. The day option provides packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

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