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Explore a domain of new skills combined with incredible locations. From scaling cliffs in Britain to mosaic-making in Turkey, these particular experiences provide the perfect blend of learning and vacation.

Bouldering in the Peak District

Even total novices will soon be climbing sheltered Peak District crags on this weekend session. Attendees will learn securing the rope, belaying and multiple methods of ascent, plus rappelling. Capped at six learners to one instructor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and tailored objectives. The training is open to anyone aged 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with some gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation course, but you can find a list of recommended, reasonably-priced places to stay close by, featuring campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The base is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Courses from 7 March to November 8th, and weekday courses throughout the year.

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a historic hillside village in Andalucía, about 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the inspiring backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of every skill level – including beginners – will learn how to conceive and execute non-representational pieces. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on guided exercises en plein air. These charcoal drawings and paintings will then be worked on in the workspace, with guests completing several abstract landscapes in acrylics to be shown in the local community. Participants has exclusive access of the hotel, which is built around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The price includes five days of art instruction; full board; and an outing to the nearby fortress and additional local sights.

Cost: Starting at 1,950 euros for one week, May 19th to 26th.

Plant-Based Cooking in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, based at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of selection of small dishes, attend a falafel-making workshop, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a nearby winery to sample Portuguese wines, combined with free time for walks by the Funcho River, to relax on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The accommodation, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, welcoming weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format each day is a high-energy group warmup, then three 90-minute classes teaching various street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to show off those solos. Dancers are divided into levels according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to street dance, all the way to experienced performers or teachers. This event does not provide lodging but there are a number of hostels and hotels nearby, and it is under an hour by train into London.

Cost: 245 pounds for the weekend; upcoming session 7-9 April.

Sea Shanty Break in St Ives

This coastal town is the ideal location for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. There will be voice exercises, breath control techniques, performance tips and a final evening concert. The retreat is held in a rural hotel with views of the bay. All meals are provided, including a traditional tea on the first day, breakfast options, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Writer and tutor an experienced instructor conducts the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores topics including plot, character development, setting and tension, to submitting work to publishers. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the beginning and end of the retreat. The holiday is based at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a central garden with a pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From £893 per person for seven nights (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This weekend course will help participants get to grips with the basics of beekeeping, study the biology of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend 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 rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging during the course is £97.

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

Sailing for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These new 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. Participants can hone their steering, build their seamanship and aim for the recognized certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option provides packed lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Paphos

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be