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Discover a domain of new skills alongside incredible locations. From rock climbing in the UK to creating mosaics in Turkey, these experiences offer the perfect mix of education and vacation.

Bouldering in the Peak District

Including total novices will rapidly be climbing protected regional outcrops on this short program. Attendees will master tying in, belaying and multiple climbing techniques, along with abseiling down. Capped at a half-dozen students to a single guide, there is significant one-on-one guidance and personalised targets. The course is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with limited indoor experience. It is non-residential course, but you can find a range of recommended, affordable accommodation close by, featuring campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The venue is 10 minutes’ walk from Bamford railway station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Weekends from March 7th to November 8th, and weekday courses most months.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

Moclín, a picturesque hillside village in southern Spain, around a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of all abilities – including beginners – will be taught how to conceive and execute modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on tutorials en plein air. These initial charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the studio, with attendees completing several abstract landscapes in acrylics to be shown in the local community. The group has sole use of the venue, which is centered on an open courtyard and has a roof terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The fee encompasses five days of art instruction; full board; and an trip to the local castle and other local sights.

Cost: Starting at €1,950 for one week, 19-26 May.

Vegetarian Cooking in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, based at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Participants will learn to produce meze spreads, attend a falafel-making workshop, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are visits to the local market and a local vineyard to taste Portuguese wines, plus free time for walks by the nearby river, to relax on the terrace or swim in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a high-energy group warmup, followed by three hour-and-a-half workshops teaching different urban dance forms, then an hour-long jam to demonstrate those solos. Dancers are divided into levels according to ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to popping and locking, all the way to experienced performers or instructors. This event does not provide accommodation 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 7-9 April.

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the perfect spot for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will be taught historic sailing songs 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 held in a country house with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are provided, such as a Cornish cream tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, is not provided. All together now: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Author and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores topics including plot, character development, locations and suspense, to submitting work to agents. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in events 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 – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a garden and pool (companions are welcome to come along). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a concert in the courtyard and a final meal.

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

Beginners' Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering eco-living: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This weekend introduction will help participants understand the basics of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the centre's carefully maintained woodlands, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Novices in Essex

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Participants can hone their steering, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and residential packages, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from full English breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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