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Discover a world of fresh abilities paired with incredible places. From scaling cliffs in the UK to mosaic-making in Turkey, these adventures provide a superb blend of education and vacation.

Bouldering in the Peak District

Including absolute novices will rapidly be ascending sheltered regional outcrops on this short program. Learners will become proficient in securing the rope, belaying and a range of methods of ascent, along with rappelling. Capped at six learners to each tutor, there is plenty of one-on-one guidance and tailored objectives. This program is open to anyone over the age of 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with limited gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation course, but there is a list of suggested, reasonably-priced accommodation close by, such as campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and pubs with rooms. The training centre is a brief walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for the weekend. Courses from March 7th to 8 November, plus weekday courses throughout the year.

Modern Art in Spain

Moclín, a ancient hillside village in southern Spain, about 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the inspiring backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of every skill level – even novices – will be taught how to design and produce abstract artworks. Part of the schedule will be spent outside, working on structured activities in the open. These sketches and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the studio, with attendees producing multiple abstract landscapes in acrylics to be exhibited in the village. Participants has sole use of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the countryside. The price covers five days’ art instruction; all meals; and an outing to the local castle and additional points of interest.

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

Vegetarian Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, based at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is draws inspiration from the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. 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 substantial main courses including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the village market and a nearby winery to sample local vintages, combined with free time for walks by the nearby river, to relax on the deck or take a dip in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style warm-up session, then three 90-minute workshops covering various street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to show off new moves. Dancers are split into groups based on ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or instructors. The camp does not provide lodging but there are several hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is under an hour by train into central London.

Cost: £245 for the weekend; next course April 7th to 9th.

Sea Shanty Weekend in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent spot for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will be taught traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and try their hand at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a country house overlooking the bay. All meals are provided, including a Cornish cream tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, alas, is not provided. All together now: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

Cost: From £429. Available 31 January-3 February and 31 October-3 November.

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor Greg Mosse runs the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores topics including story structure, characters, setting and suspense, to submitting work to publishers. A co-host, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the start and finish of the retreat. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a final meal.

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

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a host of programs covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This two-day course will help attendees get to grips with the basics of apiary management, explore the biology of bees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the centre's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Accommodation the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging during the course is £97.

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

Sailing for Novices in Essex

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Sailors can hone their steering, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the recognized certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and overnight packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterside sailing school. The day option includes lunches, while the residential package covers two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be