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Uncover a realm of new skills paired with stunning places. Starting with rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these experiences offer an ideal blend of education and vacation.

Bouldering in the National Park

Even complete newcomers will rapidly be scaling protected Peak District outcrops on this short course. Attendees will become proficient in securing the rope, safety techniques and multiple methods of ascent, plus abseiling down. Capped at six participants to each tutor, there is significant personalized coaching and tailored objectives. The course is open to all individuals over the age of 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with some gym climbing background. This is a non-accommodation course, but you can find a list of recommended, reasonably-priced places to stay in the vicinity, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The base is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, which is on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for the weekend. Courses from 7 March to 8 November, along with weekday courses most months.

Abstract Painting in Spain

This historic hillside village, a picturesque town in Andalucía, around 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the inspiring location for this painting holiday. Painters of all abilities – including novices – will discover how to conceive and execute abstract artworks. Part of the schedule will be spent outside, working on guided exercises en plein air. These sketches and watercolour studies will then be developed in the studio, with participants producing multiple abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be shown in the village. The group has sole use of the venue, which is centered on an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The price covers five days of painting tuition; full board; and an outing to the local castle and other local sights.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in Portugal

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, based at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Participants will master the art of meze spreads, attend a hands-on falafel session, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, combined with leisure time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a high-energy warm-up session, then three hour-and-a-half workshops teaching different urban dance forms, then an 60-minute jam to show off those solos. Dancers are split into groups according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to street dance, right up to advanced dancers or instructors. This event doesn’t include lodging but there are several hostels and hotels nearby, and it is under an hour by rail into London.

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

Maritime Singing Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the excellent setting for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breath control techniques, performance tips and a closing performance. The holiday is held in a country house with views of the bay. Full board are included, such as a traditional tea on the first day, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, is not provided. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

Cost: From 429 pounds. Available 31 January-3 February and 31 October-3 November.

Writing in Crete

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, character development, setting and tension, to sending manuscripts to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the start and finish of the retreat. The holiday is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to share). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a farewell dinner.

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

Introduction to Beekeeping in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a host of programs covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This weekend course will help attendees learn the basics of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend 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. Accommodation the evening prior is £80, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their helming, build their nautical skills and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and overnight packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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