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Uncover a realm of fresh abilities paired with incredible destinations. From scaling cliffs in the UK to creating mosaics in Turkey, these experiences provide the perfect mix of education and holiday.

Cliff Scaling in the Peak District

Even total newcomers will rapidly be climbing sheltered Peak District outcrops on this weekend program. Attendees will master securing the rope, safety techniques and multiple methods of ascent, along with descending. Capped at a half-dozen students to a single guide, there is a lot of individual attention and personalised targets. This program is appropriate for anyone over the age of 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with a bit of gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation course, but there is a selection of recommended, affordable accommodation nearby, such as campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The base is 10 minutes’ walk 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 November 8th, plus midweek sessions throughout the year.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

Moclín, a ancient town in southern Spain, about a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking backdrop for this creative getaway. Participants of all abilities – even beginners – will discover how to design and produce modern art. Some time will be spent outside, working on structured activities en plein air. These sketches and watercolour studies will then be worked on in the workspace, with guests completing a number of interpretive scenes in acrylics to be shown in the local community. Participants has sole use of the hotel, which is built around an central patio and has a rooftop with views over the hills. The fee includes five days of painting tuition; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and other local sights.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, set on a villa by the river in the central Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Attendees will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a falafel-making workshop, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains like a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. There are trips to the village market and a local vineyard to taste Portuguese wines, combined with free time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the deck or swim in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, welcoming weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a high-energy group warmup, followed by three 90-minute classes covering different urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off those solos. Dancers are divided into levels based on skill level, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to popping and locking, all the way to advanced dancers or instructors. This event does not provide lodging but there are several places to stay nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent setting for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will be taught historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The retreat is held in a country house with views of the bay. All meals are included, such as a Cornish cream tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, alas, is not included. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor Greg Mosse leads the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores topics including plot, character development, locations and tension, to submitting work to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the start and finish of the week. The retreat is held at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – ten private accommodations surround a central garden with a 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 one week (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses covering eco-living: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This weekend course will help attendees learn the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the biology of bees and discover their environmental benefits. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to de-stress in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Accommodation the evening prior is £80, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is £97.

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

Sailing for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Sailors can hone their steering, build their seamanship and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential options, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option includes packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

The setting for this swim camp is a {be