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Explore a realm of novel talents combined with amazing locations. From scaling cliffs in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these journeys offer the perfect combination of education and vacation.

Bouldering in the National Park

Even absolute beginners will soon be scaling protected regional crags on this two-day course. Participants will master securing the rope, belaying and several methods of ascent, plus rappelling. With a maximum of six learners to each tutor, there is plenty of personalized coaching and personalised targets. The course is suitable for all individuals aged 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with limited gym climbing background. This is a non-accommodation option, but there is a list of recommended, reasonably-priced lodging close by, including campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The training centre 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, and weekday courses throughout the year.

Modern Art in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a historic hillside village in Andalucía, around 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this art retreat. Painters of all abilities – even beginners – will discover how to plan and create modern art. A portion of the time will be spent outside, working on guided exercises out in nature. These initial sketches and paintings will then be worked on in the studio, with attendees creating a number of abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the local community. The group has sole use of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with panoramic vistas over the countryside. The price encompasses five days of art instruction; full board; and an outing to the nearby fortress and additional local sights.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, set on a riverside villa in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a falafel-making workshop, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses such as a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, plus leisure time for strolls by the Funcho River, to relax on the terrace or swim in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format each day is a high-energy group warmup, then several hour-and-a-half classes covering different urban dance forms, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Dancers are divided into levels according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to street dance, right up to experienced performers or instructors. This event does not provide accommodation but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in Cornwall

This coastal town is the perfect spot for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, performance tips and a closing performance. The retreat is based at a country house with views of the bay. Full board are provided, including a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, unfortunately, is not included. All together now: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Author and tutor Greg Mosse conducts the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores topics including plot, character development, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the start and finish of the week. The holiday is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a garden and pool (companions are welcome to share). On the final evening, budding authors celebrate with a concert in the garden and a final meal.

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

Beginners' Beekeeping in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a host of courses on sustainability: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day course will help participants understand the basics of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to relax in the organization's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the night before is £80, and full-board accommodation for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at adult beginners learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their helming, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and residential options, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package includes lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights' stay and full board, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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