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Explore a realm of fresh abilities alongside incredible destinations. From rock climbing in the UK to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these experiences deliver an ideal combination of education and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the Peaks

Including absolute newcomers will soon be ascending protected Peak District crags on this two-day program. Participants will learn securing the rope, belaying and multiple methods of ascent, along with abseiling down. With a maximum of a half-dozen students to each tutor, there is a lot of personalized coaching and tailored objectives. This program is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with limited gym climbing background. It is non-residential option, but there is a range of recommended, budget-friendly accommodation in the vicinity, including campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The venue is a brief walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Courses from March 7th to November 8th, and midweek sessions throughout the year.

Non-Representational Art in Andalucía

Moclín, a picturesque town in Andalucía, around a short drive from Granada, is the inspiring location for this painting holiday. Painters of all abilities – including beginners – will be taught how to design and produce abstract artworks. A portion of the time will be spent outdoors, working on guided exercises out in nature. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the studio, with guests completing several abstract landscapes in acrylics to be exhibited in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is built around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The fee includes five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an trip to the local castle and other points of interest.

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

Plant-Based Culinary in the Algarve

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, located at a villa by the river in the central Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of selection of small dishes, attend a hands-on falafel session, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses such as spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are visits to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, along with free time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or take a dip in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, then three hour-and-a-half classes covering different urban dance forms, 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, all the way to experienced performers or teachers. This event does not provide accommodation but there are a number of places to stay nearby, and it is under an hour by rail into London.

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

Maritime Singing Weekend in St Ives

This coastal town is the excellent spot for a maritime music retreat. Participants will learn traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at writing their own. There will be vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The retreat is held in a country house overlooking St Ives Bay. All meals are provided, such as a Cornish cream tea on arrival, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, is not included. All together now: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Author and tutor an experienced instructor runs the daily workshops on this authors' getaway. He explores everything from story structure, character development, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the start and finish of the week. The holiday is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – ten private accommodations are set around a central garden with a pool (companions are welcome to come along). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a farewell dinner.

Cost: Starting at £893 per person for seven nights (for double occupancy), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of programs covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This weekend introduction will help attendees learn the basics of apiary management, study the biology of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to de-stress in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is £80, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

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 starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Participants can hone their steering, strengthen their nautical skills and work towards the recognized certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and overnight packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterside sailing school. The non-residential package includes packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

Cost: From 299 pounds. Dates on July 18th-20th and September 4th-6th.

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Paphos

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be