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Explore a world of fresh abilities paired with incredible destinations. From scaling cliffs in the UK to creating mosaics in Turkey, these particular adventures deliver a superb combination of education and holiday.

Bouldering in the Peaks

Even absolute newcomers will rapidly be climbing sheltered regional crags on this short course. Learners will master tying in, safety techniques and a range of methods of ascent, as well as descending. Capped at six participants to each tutor, there is a lot of individual attention and tailored objectives. This program is suitable for anyone over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with a bit of indoor experience. This is a non-accommodation option, but there is a selection of recommended, budget-friendly accommodation nearby, featuring campgrounds, hostels, bed and breakfasts and pubs with rooms. The venue is a short stroll from the local train station, located on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for two days. Courses from 7 March to November 8th, along with weekday courses most months.

Modern Art in Spain

Moclín, a picturesque town in Andalucía, about 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – including beginners – will be taught how to plan and create non-representational pieces. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on tutorials en plein air. These initial sketches and watercolour studies will then be developed in the workspace, with participants completing a number of interpretive scenes in acrylics to be exhibited in the village. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is centered on an central patio and has a rooftop with views over the countryside. The price includes five days of art instruction; full board; and an trip to the local castle and additional local sights.

Cost: From €1,950 for seven nights, 19-26 May.

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in the Algarve

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, based at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Participants will learn to produce selection of small dishes, take part in a falafel-making workshop, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the village market and a local vineyard to sample Portuguese wines, along with free time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the pool. The accommodation, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

Cost: Starting at 900 euros for a five-day retreat. Dates from 20 March, 8 May, September 11th 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 each day is a high-energy group warmup, then three hour-and-a-half workshops covering various urban dance forms, then an hour-long freestyle session to show off those solos. Participants are split into groups according to skill level, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or instructors. The camp doesn’t include accommodation but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is under an hour by train into London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in St Ives

St Ives is the excellent spot for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. There will be voice exercises, breath control techniques, performance tips and a closing performance. The holiday is held in a rural hotel with views of the bay. All meals are provided, including a traditional tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not provided. Everyone join in: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

Cost: Starting at £429. Available 31 January-3 February and October 31st to November 3rd.

Creative Writing in Crete

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse leads the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, character development, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts 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 holiday is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – ten private accommodations are set around a garden and pool (non-writing partners are encouraged to share). On the final evening, aspiring writers celebrate with a concert in the courtyard and a final meal.

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

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This two-day introduction will help attendees learn the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the biology of honeybees and discover their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to relax in the centre's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and full-board accommodation during the course is £97.

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

Sailing for Novices in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Sailors can improve their helming, build their nautical skills and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are day-only and overnight options, staying in simple dorms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package provides packed lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights' stay and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

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