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Discover a domain of fresh abilities alongside stunning destinations. From rock climbing in the UK to creating mosaics in Turkey, these experiences deliver an ideal mix of learning and escape.

Bouldering in the Peaks

Including absolute newcomers will soon be climbing sheltered Peak District outcrops on this weekend session. Learners will master tying in, belaying and a range of climbing techniques, along with abseiling down. Capped at six learners to one instructor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and tailored objectives. This program is appropriate for anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with a bit of indoor experience. This is a non-residential option, but you can find a selection of recommended, affordable places to stay in the vicinity, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The venue is a short stroll from Bamford railway station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for two days. Weekends from 7 March to November 8th, and midweek sessions throughout the year.

Non-Representational Art in Spain

This historic hillside village, a historic hillside village in southern Spain, around a short drive from Granada, is the inspiring backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of every skill level – even novices – will discover how to design and produce modern art. A portion of the time will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities out in nature. These sketches and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees producing a number of abstract landscapes in acrylics to be shown in the village. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an central patio and has a roof terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The price includes five days’ art instruction; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and other local sights.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, set on a villa by the river in the inland Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Attendees will learn to produce selection of small dishes, 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 visits to the village market and a local vineyard to sample Portuguese wines, along with free time for walks by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The accommodation, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, then several 90-minute workshops covering various urban dance forms, then an 60-minute jam to show off those solos. Dancers are divided into levels based on ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to street dance, right up to experienced performers or instructors. The camp does not provide lodging but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is under an hour by train into London.

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

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the ideal spot for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and try their hand at writing their own. The schedule includes voice exercises, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. 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, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, alas, is not included. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Writer and tutor Greg Mosse runs the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores topics including story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the beginning and end of the week. The holiday is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – 10 private accommodations are set around a garden and pool (non-writing partners are encouraged 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 one week (based on two sharing), August 11th to 18th.

Beginners' Beekeeping in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of programs on sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees get to grips with the basics of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of honeybees and discover their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to de-stress in the centre's carefully maintained woodlands, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging during the course is £97.

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

Yachting for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are aimed at adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Sailors can hone their steering, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the recognized certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential options, staying in simple dorms in the waterfront training centre. The non-residential package provides lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights' stay and full board, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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