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Uncover a world of fresh abilities alongside stunning destinations. From rock climbing in the UK to mosaic-making in Turkey, these experiences deliver an ideal blend of learning and vacation.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Including complete beginners will rapidly be scaling protected regional outcrops on this weekend session. Learners will master tying in, safety techniques and a range of methods of ascent, plus abseiling down. Limited to a half-dozen students to one instructor, there is a lot of one-on-one guidance and custom goals. This program is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with limited gym climbing background. This is a day-only course, but there is a selection of recommended, reasonably-priced accommodation in the vicinity, featuring campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The base is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, situated on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Courses from 7 March to November 8th, plus weekday courses most months.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a picturesque hillside village in southern Spain, around a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking setting for this art retreat. Artists of all abilities – even novices – will learn how to conceive and execute abstract artworks. A portion of the time will be spent outside, working on guided exercises out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees creating a number of interpretive scenes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. Participants has exclusive access of the hotel, which is set around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the countryside. The fee encompasses five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an excursion to the local castle and other points of interest.

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

Plant-Based Cooking in Portugal

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, located at a villa by the river in the central Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Attendees will learn to produce meze spreads, take part in a falafel-making workshop, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the village market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, plus free time for walks by the nearby river, to relax on the deck or swim in the pool. The accommodation, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a high-energy group warmup, followed by several hour-and-a-half classes covering various street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate those solos. Dancers are split into levels according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to street dance, right up to advanced dancers or instructors. This event does not provide accommodation but there are several hostels and hotels nearby, and it is under an hour by rail into London.

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

Sea Shanty Break in St Ives

St Ives is the excellent location for a sea shanty weekend. Participants 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 closing performance. The holiday is based at a country house overlooking the bay. Full board are included, including a traditional tea on the first day, breakfast options, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, unfortunately, is not included. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse leads the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores everything from plot, character development, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the start and finish of the retreat. The retreat is based at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – ten private accommodations surround a central garden with a pool (non-writing partners are welcome to share). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a concert in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

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

Beginners' Apiculture in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of courses covering eco-living: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees learn the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the biology of bees and discover their ecological importance. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the organization's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in Essex

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Participants can improve their helming, strengthen their nautical skills and work towards the recognized levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and overnight packages, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside sailing school. The day option provides lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights' stay and all meals, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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