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Discover a realm of fresh abilities paired with stunning locations. From scaling cliffs in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these particular adventures provide the perfect blend of learning and escape.

Bouldering in the National Park

Including absolute newcomers will soon be ascending sheltered Peak District crags on this short program. Participants will master securing the rope, safety techniques and multiple climbing techniques, as well as abseiling down. Limited to six participants to one instructor, there is significant one-on-one guidance and personalised targets. The course is appropriate for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with some indoor experience. This is a non-accommodation course, but you can find a selection of suggested, affordable accommodation in the vicinity, such as campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The venue is a short stroll from Bamford railway station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for two days. Weekends from March 7th to 8 November, plus weekday courses most months.

Non-Representational Art in Andalucía

Moclín, a picturesque hillside village in Andalucía, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the inspiring backdrop for this creative getaway. Artists of every skill level – even novices – will learn how to design and produce modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent outdoors, working on guided exercises in the open. These initial sketches and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees completing multiple abstract landscapes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is set around an open courtyard and has a rooftop with views over the countryside. The fee encompasses five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an excursion to the nearby fortress and other points of interest.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in Portugal

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, located at a riverside villa in the central Portuguese region, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the village market and a nearby winery to sample local vintages, plus leisure time for walks by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The villa, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, inclusive three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a high-energy warm-up session, followed by three 90-minute workshops teaching different street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to show off new moves. Participants are divided into levels according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are brand 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 within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

Cost: £245 for three days; upcoming session April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent spot for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and have a go at writing their own. There will be vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The holiday is based at a rural hotel with views of the bay. Full board are provided, such as a traditional tea on arrival, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, is not provided. All together now: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from story structure, 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 retreat is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the final evening, budding authors celebrate with a musical performance in the garden and a final meal.

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

Introduction to Beekeeping in Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a host of programs on sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This weekend course will help attendees get to grips with the fundamentals of apiary management, study the life cycle of honeybees and discover their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to de-stress in the centre's sustainably managed forests, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and full-board accommodation for the weekend is £97.

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

Yachting for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are aimed at adult beginners learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can hone their helming, build their seamanship and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the residential package covers two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be