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Explore a domain of novel talents combined with incredible locations. From rock climbing in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these particular journeys provide an ideal blend of education and escape.

Bouldering in the Peaks

Including total beginners will rapidly be climbing sheltered regional outcrops on this short session. Learners will master tying in, safety techniques and several methods of ascent, along with descending. With a maximum of a half-dozen students to one instructor, there is significant individual attention and tailored objectives. This program is suitable for all individuals aged 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with some indoor experience. It is non-accommodation course, but there is a list of recommended, affordable accommodation nearby, featuring campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The training centre is a short stroll from the local train station, located on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Non-Representational Art in Spain

Moclín, a historic white village in southern Spain, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking setting for this creative getaway. Participants of every skill level – even novices – will be taught how to conceive and execute non-representational pieces. A portion of the time will be spent outdoors, working on tutorials out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be worked on in the workspace, with attendees producing several abstract landscapes in acrylics to be shown in the local community. Participants has sole use of the venue, which is centered on an central patio and has a rooftop with views over the hills. The price encompasses five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an trip to the nearby fortress and additional local sights.

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

Plant-Based Cooking in Portugal

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, located at a villa by the river in the central Algarve, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Participants will learn to produce selection of small dishes, attend a hands-on falafel session, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a nearby winery to taste Portuguese wines, combined with free time for walks by the Funcho River, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the pool. The accommodation, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an uplifting, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a party-style warm-up session, followed by three 90-minute workshops teaching different street dance styles, then an hour-long jam to show off those solos. Participants are split into groups based on ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include lodging but there are a number of hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into London.

Cost: £245 for the weekend; next course April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Weekend in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent setting for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will learn traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and try their hand at writing their own. There will be voice exercises, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are provided, including a Cornish cream tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, is not included. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

Cost: Starting at 429 pounds. Dates 31 January-3 February and 31 October-3 November.

Creative Writing in Crete

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He covers topics including story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the beginning and end of the retreat. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 private accommodations surround a garden and pool (non-writing partners are welcome to come along). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a final meal.

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

Beginners' Beekeeping in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a host of programs on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This weekend introduction will help attendees understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the biology of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to de-stress in the centre's sustainably managed woodlands, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging 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 dinghies and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Participants can hone their steering, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the recognized certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and overnight options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package includes lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

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