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Explore a realm of fresh abilities alongside stunning destinations. Starting with rock climbing in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these adventures deliver an ideal mix of learning and vacation.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Including total newcomers will rapidly be scaling protected regional crags on this short course. Participants will become proficient in securing the rope, belaying and a range of climbing techniques, plus rappelling. With a maximum of a half-dozen students to a single guide, there is plenty of individual attention and tailored objectives. The training is open to anyone aged 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with a bit of gym climbing background. This is a day-only option, but there is a range of suggested, budget-friendly accommodation nearby, including campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The base is a short stroll from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a ancient town in Andalucía, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking setting for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – even beginners – will discover how to plan and create modern art. A portion of the time will be spent outdoors, working on guided exercises out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees completing multiple interpretive scenes in acrylics to be shown in the local community. Participants has sole use of the hotel, which is centered on an central patio and has a rooftop with panoramic vistas over the countryside. The price encompasses 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, May 19th to 26th.

Plant-Based Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, located at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Participants will master the art of meze spreads, take part in a hands-on falafel session, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains like spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are visits to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, combined with free time for strolls by the nearby river, to relax on the terrace or take a dip in the infinity pool. The villa, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, plus glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, welcoming weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a party-style group warmup, followed by three hour-and-a-half workshops covering various street dance styles, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off those solos. Dancers are divided into groups based on ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to popping and locking, all the way to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp does not provide accommodation but there are a number of hostels and hotels nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

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

Sea Shanty Break in St Ives

This coastal town is the excellent setting for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will learn traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and have a go at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The holiday is held in a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. Full board are included, including a traditional tea on the first day, breakfast options, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not provided. All together now: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Writer and tutor an experienced instructor runs the daily workshops on this authors' getaway. He explores topics including story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to submitting work to agents. A co-host, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the beginning and end of the week. The retreat is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – ten private accommodations surround a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to share). On the final evening, budding authors mark the occasion with a concert in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From 893 pounds per person for seven nights (for double occupancy), 11-18 August.

Beginners' Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of courses covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees get to grips with the basics of apiary management, study the biology of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to relax in the organization's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Accommodation the evening prior is £80, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is £97.

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

Sailing for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Participants can improve their steering, build their nautical skills and work towards the recognized levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and residential packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterside sailing school. The non-residential package provides packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights' stay and full board, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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