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Explore a world of novel talents combined with amazing locations. From rock climbing in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these experiences deliver a superb blend of learning and escape.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Even total newcomers will quickly be climbing protected Peak District crags on this short session. Attendees will become proficient in tying in, belaying and multiple climbing techniques, plus descending. Capped at six participants to a single guide, there is plenty of personalized coaching and personalised targets. The training is suitable for anyone over the age of 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with some indoor experience. This is a non-accommodation course, but there is a range of recommended, affordable accommodation in the vicinity, including campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The venue is a brief walk from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for the weekend. Weekends from March 7th to November 8th, plus midweek sessions most months.

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a historic white village in Andalucía, around a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating location for this art retreat. Painters of every skill level – even beginners – will discover how to plan and create abstract artworks. A portion of the time will be spent in the open air, working on tutorials in the open. These sketches and paintings will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees producing multiple abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be displayed in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the venue, which is centered on an central patio and has a roof terrace with views over the countryside. The cost encompasses five days of art instruction; full board; and an excursion to the nearby fortress and additional local sights.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in the Algarve

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, located at a villa by the river in the inland Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Participants will learn to produce 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. There are visits to the village market and a nearby winery to sample Portuguese wines, plus leisure time for walks by the Funcho River, to unwind on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, welcoming weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a high-energy warm-up session, followed by three 90-minute workshops covering different street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Dancers are divided into levels according to skill level, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or instructors. This event does not provide accommodation but there are several hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

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

Sea Shanty Break in St Ives

This coastal town is the ideal spot for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes voice exercises, breathing exercises, performance tips and a closing performance. The holiday is based at a country house with views of the bay. Full board are provided, such as a Cornish cream tea on the first day, breakfast options, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, alas, is not included. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Author and lecturer Greg Mosse leads the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores topics including plot, characters, setting and tension, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the beginning and end of the week. The retreat is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – ten private accommodations are set around a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the last night, budding authors celebrate with a musical performance in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From £893 per person for seven nights (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help participants get to grips with the fundamentals of apiary management, explore the life cycle of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to relax in the centre's carefully maintained woodlands, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the evening prior is £80, and full-board accommodation for the weekend is £97.

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

Sailing for Novices in Essex

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for novice sailors learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Participants can hone their steering, build their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are day-only and residential options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package includes packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights' stay and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be