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Uncover a world of fresh abilities combined with amazing locations. From rock climbing in the UK to mosaic-making in Turkey, these experiences provide the perfect combination of learning and escape.

Rock Climbing in the Peak District

Including complete newcomers will soon be climbing protected regional rock faces on this weekend session. Attendees will learn securing the rope, belaying and multiple climbing techniques, along with abseiling down. Limited to six learners to each tutor, there is plenty of individual attention and tailored objectives. This program is suitable for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with a bit of indoor experience. This is a non-accommodation option, but you can find a selection of recommended, affordable places to stay close by, including campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The base is a brief walk from the local train station, situated on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for the weekend. Courses from March 7th to 8 November, plus weekday courses most months.

Non-Representational Art in Spain

This historic hillside village, a picturesque white village in Andalucía, about a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating setting for this painting holiday. Artists of all abilities – including beginners – will be taught how to plan and create modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities out in nature. These charcoal drawings and paintings will then be worked on in the studio, with guests creating multiple abstract landscapes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. The group has sole use of the venue, which is built around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The cost includes five days of painting tuition; all meals; and an excursion to the nearby fortress and other local sights.

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

Vegetarian Cooking in Portugal

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, located at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Participants will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a falafel-making workshop, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the village market and a nearby winery to taste local vintages, plus free time for strolls by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The accommodation, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

Cost: Starting at €900 for a five-day retreat. Dates from 20 March, May 8th, September 11th and November 13th.

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format each day is a party-style warm-up session, then several hour-and-a-half workshops teaching various urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off those solos. Participants are divided into groups according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to street dance, right up to experienced performers or teachers. This event 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; upcoming session 7-9 April.

Maritime Singing Break in St Ives

This coastal town is the excellent spot for a maritime music retreat. Guests will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. There will be vocal warmups, breath control techniques, performance tips and a final evening concert. The holiday is held in a rural hotel overlooking the bay. Full board are included, including a traditional tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

Cost: From £429. Dates 31 January-3 February and 31 October-3 November.

Writing in Greece

Author and tutor Greg Mosse conducts the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He explores topics including plot, character development, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the start and finish of the retreat. The retreat is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – 10 private accommodations surround a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a farewell dinner.

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

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a host of courses covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This weekend introduction will help participants get to grips with the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the biology of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the organization's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. 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 day-only and residential packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be