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Uncover a domain of novel talents paired with amazing locations. Starting with scaling cliffs in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these particular experiences offer a superb combination of learning and escape.

Rock Climbing in the Peaks

Even absolute newcomers will soon be scaling protected Peak District outcrops on this two-day session. Learners will learn tying in, belaying and a range of methods of ascent, as well as rappelling. With a maximum of six participants to a single guide, there is plenty of personalized coaching and personalised targets. The course is suitable for anyone over the age of 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with limited gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation course, but there is a list of suggested, budget-friendly accommodation nearby, including campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and pubs with rooms. The venue is a brief walk from Bamford railway station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Courses from 7 March to 8 November, plus midweek sessions throughout the year.

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a ancient hillside village in Andalucía, around 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this art retreat. Painters of every skill level – even novices – will discover how to conceive and execute modern art. Some time will be spent in the open air, working on guided exercises en plein air. These charcoal drawings and paintings will then be developed in the studio, with attendees producing multiple abstract landscapes in acrylics to be exhibited in the village. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is built around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the countryside. The fee includes five days’ painting tuition; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and other local sights.

Cost: Starting at €1,950 for seven nights, May 19th to 26th.

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in the Algarve

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, located at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Attendees will learn to produce selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are visits to the local market and a nearby winery to taste local vintages, plus leisure time for strolls by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The accommodation, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, welcoming weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a party-style group warmup, then three hour-and-a-half workshops covering different street dance styles, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off those solos. Participants are divided into groups according to ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to street dance, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp does not provide accommodation but there are several places to stay nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

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

Sea Shanty Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent setting for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breath control techniques, performance tips and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. Full board are included, such as a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not provided. All together now: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor an experienced instructor leads the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores topics including story structure, characters, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host 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 White mountains – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a central garden with a pool (non-writing partners are encouraged to come along). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a final meal.

Cost: Starting at £893 per person for one week (for double occupancy), August 11th to 18th.

Beginners' Beekeeping in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering eco-living: from creating habitats to making pallet furniture. This weekend introduction will help participants understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the life cycle of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to relax in the organization's sustainably managed forests, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the evening prior is £80, and all meals and lodging during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Sailors can improve their helming, build their nautical skills and aim for 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 waterside sailing school. The day option includes lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

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