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Uncover a domain of novel talents combined with incredible places. From rock climbing in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these particular experiences provide a superb mix of learning and escape.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Even complete newcomers will soon be scaling protected Peak District rock faces on this two-day program. Attendees will master securing the rope, safety techniques and multiple climbing techniques, as well as rappelling. Capped at six participants to one instructor, there is significant individual attention and personalised targets. This program is appropriate for anyone aged 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with limited gym climbing background. It is non-residential course, but there is a range of recommended, reasonably-priced places to stay nearby, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The base is a brief walk from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Non-Representational Art in Spain

This historic hillside village, a ancient hillside village in southern Spain, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating location for this creative getaway. Painters of all abilities – including novices – will discover how to conceive and execute modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on structured activities in the open. These sketches and watercolour studies will then be worked on in the studio, with attendees creating multiple abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the village. The group has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a rooftop with views over the countryside. The fee includes five days of art instruction; full board; and an trip to the local castle and additional local sights.

Cost: Starting at 1,950 euros for seven nights, May 19th to 26th.

Vegetarian Cooking in the Algarve

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, set on a villa by the river in the central Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Guests will master the art of meze spreads, attend a falafel-making workshop, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the village market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, along with free time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or take a dip in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, as well as glamping tents in the gardens.

Cost: Starting at €900 for a five-day retreat. Available from March 20th, 8 May, 11 September 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 each day is a party-style group warmup, then three 90-minute workshops covering various street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to show off those solos. Dancers are divided into groups according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include lodging but there are a number of places to stay nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

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

Maritime Singing Break in St Ives

St Ives is the excellent setting for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will learn historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, 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 overlooking St Ives Bay. Full board are provided, such as a traditional tea on arrival, breakfast options, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, unfortunately, is not included. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer an experienced instructor leads the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, character development, locations 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 held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base 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 concert in the courtyard and a final meal.

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

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of programs on sustainability: from creating habitats to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees learn the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the biology of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to relax in the organization's sustainably managed forests, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Beginners in Essex

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Sailors can hone their helming, strengthen their seamanship and work towards the recognized levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight packages, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package provides packed lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Paphos

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be