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Uncover a domain of novel talents combined with stunning places. Starting with rock climbing in the UK to creating mosaics in Turkey, these particular adventures deliver an ideal combination of learning and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Including total newcomers will quickly be ascending sheltered regional outcrops on this weekend session. Attendees will master tying in, belaying and several climbing techniques, plus abseiling down. Capped at six learners to a single guide, there is significant individual attention and personalised targets. This program is appropriate for anyone aged 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with limited indoor experience. It is non-accommodation course, but there is a range of recommended, budget-friendly lodging close by, including campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The training centre is a short stroll from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Spain

This historic hillside village, a historic hillside village in Andalucía, around 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the breathtaking backdrop for this art retreat. Participants of all abilities – including beginners – will learn how to design and produce non-representational pieces. Some time will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities en plein air. These sketches and paintings will then be worked on in the studio, with participants producing several abstract landscapes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the venue, which is centered on an open courtyard and has a roof terrace with panoramic vistas over the countryside. The fee encompasses five days’ art instruction; full board; and an outing to the nearby fortress and other points of interest.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in Portugal

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, located at a riverside villa in the inland Algarve, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Attendees will master the art of selection of small dishes, attend a hands-on falafel session, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are visits to the local market and a nearby winery to taste Portuguese wines, along with leisure time for walks by the Funcho River, to relax on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, as well as glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, inclusive three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a party-style group warmup, followed by three 90-minute workshops covering different urban dance forms, then an hour-long freestyle session to show off those solos. Dancers are split into levels based on ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to street dance, right up to experienced performers or instructors. This event does not provide accommodation but there are a number of places to stay nearby, and it is under an hour by train into central London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in St Ives

This coastal town is the perfect spot for a maritime music retreat. Participants will be taught historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes voice exercises, breath control techniques, performance tips and a closing performance. The holiday is held in a country house with views of 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. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Writing in Crete

Writer and tutor Greg Mosse leads the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from plot, character development, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the start and finish of the retreat. The holiday is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – 10 private accommodations surround a garden and pool (companions are welcome to come along). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From 893 pounds per person for one week (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Beginners' Beekeeping in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This two-day course will help participants get to grips with the basics of apiary management, study the life cycle of honeybees and discover their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can hone their helming, build their nautical skills and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and residential options, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterside sailing school. The day option includes packed lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights' stay and all meals, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

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