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Discover a world of novel talents paired with stunning destinations. Starting with scaling cliffs in Britain to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these particular experiences offer the perfect blend of education and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the Peak District

Including total novices will quickly be climbing protected Peak District crags on this short course. Learners will learn securing the rope, safety techniques and multiple climbing techniques, plus abseiling down. Capped at a half-dozen students to a single guide, there is significant individual attention and tailored objectives. The training is open to anyone aged 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with some gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation option, but you can find a list of suggested, affordable places to stay in the vicinity, such as campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The venue 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. Weekends from 7 March to 8 November, along with weekday courses throughout the year.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a ancient hillside village in southern Spain, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating location for this painting holiday. Participants of all abilities – including novices – will learn how to design and produce abstract artworks. Part of the schedule will be spent outdoors, working on guided exercises en plein air. These initial sketches and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with participants creating several abstract landscapes in acrylics to be exhibited in the village. Participants has exclusive access of the hotel, which is centered on an central patio and has a roof terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The cost covers five days’ painting tuition; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and other points of interest.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, based at a riverside villa in the inland Algarve, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Participants will learn to produce selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses such as spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the village market and a local vineyard to sample Portuguese wines, along with leisure time for strolls by the nearby river, to relax on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The villa, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an uplifting, inclusive three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, then several hour-and-a-half workshops covering different urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Dancers are split into groups based on ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to street dance, all the way to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp does not provide lodging but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into London.

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

Maritime Singing Weekend in St Ives

St Ives is the ideal setting for a maritime music retreat. Participants will learn traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and have a go at writing their own. The schedule includes voice exercises, breath control techniques, performance tips and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a country house overlooking St Ives Bay. Full board are provided, including a Cornish cream tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not included. Everyone join in: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Writer and tutor Greg Mosse conducts the daily workshops on this authors' getaway. He covers topics including plot, characters, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the beginning and end of the retreat. The holiday is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a garden and pool (non-writing partners are encouraged to come along). On the last night, aspiring writers celebrate with a musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

Cost: Starting at 893 pounds per person for one week (based on two sharing), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees learn the basics of beekeeping, study the life cycle of bees and discover their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to relax in the centre's carefully maintained woodlands, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the evening prior is £80, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Novices in Essex

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at adult beginners learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can hone their helming, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and residential options, staying in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The day option provides lunches, while the residential package covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be