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Explore a realm of novel talents combined with incredible places. Starting with scaling cliffs in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these adventures offer an ideal mix of education and escape.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Even total newcomers will rapidly be scaling protected regional rock faces on this short session. Learners will become proficient in tying in, safety techniques and a range of methods of ascent, along with abseiling down. Limited to six learners to a single guide, there is a lot of one-on-one guidance and tailored objectives. The course is appropriate for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with limited indoor experience. It is non-accommodation option, but there is a selection of recommended, reasonably-priced accommodation close by, including campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The training centre is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, situated on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Spain

This historic hillside village, a picturesque town in Andalucía, around a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this art retreat. Participants of every skill level – including beginners – will be taught how to design and produce abstract artworks. Some time will be spent outside, working on structured activities out in nature. These charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be worked on in the studio, with attendees completing a number of abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the local community. Participants has sole use of the hotel, which is set around an central patio and has a rooftop with panoramic vistas over the countryside. The price encompasses five days of art instruction; all meals; and an trip to the local castle and other local sights.

Cost: From 1,950 euros for seven nights, May 19th to 26th.

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, located at a villa by the river in the inland Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Attendees will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, plus leisure time for walks by the Funcho River, to unwind on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format each day is a party-style warm-up session, then several hour-and-a-half classes teaching different street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to demonstrate those solos. Dancers are split into levels based on ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp does not provide lodging but there are a number of hostels and hotels nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into central London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the excellent location for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will learn traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are included, including a Cornish cream tea on the first day, breakfast options, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Author and tutor an experienced instructor runs the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to submitting work to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the start and finish of the week. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the Lefka Ori – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a central garden with a pool (companions are welcome to share). On the final evening, budding authors celebrate with a musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

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

Beginners' Beekeeping in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day course will help participants learn the basics of beekeeping, study the biology of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to relax in the organization's carefully maintained forests, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging during the course is £97.

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

Sailing for Beginners in Essex

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are aimed at novice sailors learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a skills update. Participants can hone their helming, strengthen their seamanship and aim for the recognized certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and overnight packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront sailing school. The day option includes lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from full English breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

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