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Discover a world of novel talents paired with stunning locations. Starting with rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Turkey, these adventures deliver the perfect combination of learning and holiday.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Including total beginners will soon be scaling protected Peak District outcrops on this weekend course. Attendees will learn tying in, belaying and multiple methods of ascent, as well as rappelling. Limited to six participants to each tutor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and custom goals. The training is appropriate for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with limited gym climbing background. This is a non-residential option, but you can find a selection of suggested, reasonably-priced places to stay nearby, including campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The training centre is a short stroll from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a historic town in southern Spain, about a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating setting for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – even novices – will be taught how to design and produce modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on structured activities out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be worked on in the workspace, with participants creating a number of abstract landscapes in acrylics to be exhibited in the village. Participants has sole use of the venue, which is built around an open courtyard and has a rooftop with panoramic vistas over the hills. The fee encompasses five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an trip to the nearby fortress and other local sights.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, based at a riverside villa in the inland Portuguese region, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Attendees will learn to produce meze spreads, attend a hands-on falafel session, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the village market and a local vineyard to taste local vintages, along with leisure time for strolls by the nearby river, to relax on the terrace or swim in the pool. The villa, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an uplifting, welcoming three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format each day is a party-style group warmup, followed by three hour-and-a-half classes teaching various urban dance forms, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate those solos. Participants are split into groups based on skill level, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to street dance, right up to experienced performers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include accommodation but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into London.

Cost: £245 for three days; upcoming session 7-9 April.

Sea Shanty Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the perfect spot for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will learn traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes voice exercises, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The retreat is held in a country house overlooking St Ives Bay. All meals are included, such as 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 tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Author and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from plot, character development, setting and tension, to submitting work to agents. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the beginning and end of the retreat. The holiday is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a central garden with a pool (companions are welcome to share). On the final evening, budding authors mark the occasion with a musical performance in the garden and a final meal.

Cost: Starting at £893 per person for one week (based on two sharing), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs on sustainability: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This weekend introduction will help attendees learn the basics of beekeeping, study the life cycle of honeybees and learn about their ecological importance. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to de-stress in the organization's sustainably managed forests, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Novices in Essex

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their helming, strengthen their seamanship and work towards the recognized certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside sailing school. The non-residential package provides lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights' stay and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Paphos

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