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Discover a realm of fresh abilities alongside incredible locations. Starting with rock climbing in the UK to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these particular experiences provide an ideal combination of learning and escape.

Bouldering in the National Park

Even absolute newcomers will soon be scaling sheltered regional rock faces on this two-day session. Learners will become proficient in tying in, safety techniques and multiple methods of ascent, as well as abseiling down. With a maximum of a half-dozen students to one instructor, there is plenty of individual attention and tailored objectives. This program is suitable for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with some gym climbing background. This is a non-residential option, but you can find a range of recommended, budget-friendly lodging in the vicinity, such as campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The venue is a brief walk from Bamford railway station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for two days. Weekends from March 7th to 8 November, plus midweek sessions throughout the year.

Non-Representational Art in Spain

Moclín, a picturesque white village in southern Spain, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this art retreat. Participants of all abilities – even beginners – will discover how to design and produce modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on structured activities in the open. These charcoal drawings and paintings will then be developed in the workspace, with attendees completing several interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be displayed in the local community. Participants has sole use of the venue, which is centered on an central patio and has a roof terrace with panoramic vistas over the hills. The price encompasses five days’ art instruction; full board; and an outing to the local castle and other local sights.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in the Algarve

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, based at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of selection of small dishes, attend a falafel-making workshop, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make substantial main courses like spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the local market and a nearby winery to sample local vintages, combined with free time for walks by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

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

Street Dance in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, inclusive three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format each day is a party-style group warmup, followed by three hour-and-a-half classes covering different street dance styles, then an hour-long jam to demonstrate new moves. Participants are divided into levels based on skill level, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. This event does not provide lodging but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is under an hour by rail into London.

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

Sea Shanty Break in Cornwall

St Ives is the perfect location for a maritime music retreat. Participants will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at composing original ones. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The holiday is based at a country house with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are provided, including a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Grog, unfortunately, is not provided. All together now: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse conducts the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, characters, locations and tension, to submitting work to publishers. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the beginning and end of the retreat. The retreat is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a central garden with a pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the last night, aspiring writers celebrate with a musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

Cost: Starting at £893 per person for seven nights (for double occupancy), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of courses covering eco-living: from creating habitats to upcycling. This weekend introduction will help participants understand the fundamentals of apiary management, study the biology of bees and discover their environmental benefits. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to de-stress in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are home to polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Beginners in Essex

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at adult beginners learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can hone their helming, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the recognized levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential packages, with accommodation in simple dorms in the waterfront sailing school. The non-residential package provides packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights’ accommodation and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

The setting for this swim camp is a {be