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Explore a realm of fresh abilities paired with stunning destinations. From rock climbing in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these adventures deliver the perfect blend of learning and holiday.

Rock Climbing in the Peak District

Including total beginners will rapidly be ascending sheltered Peak District crags on this weekend course. Participants will become proficient in securing the rope, safety techniques and a range of methods of ascent, plus rappelling. Limited to six participants to a single guide, there is a lot of individual attention and custom goals. The course is suitable for anyone over the age of 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with limited indoor experience. It is non-accommodation option, but you can find a selection of recommended, budget-friendly places to stay in the vicinity, featuring campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The venue is a brief walk from the local train station, which is on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Weekends from March 7th to November 8th, along with midweek sessions most months.

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a historic hillside village in southern Spain, around a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating location for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – even novices – will be taught how to conceive and execute modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on structured activities out in nature. These initial sketches and paintings will then be expanded upon in the studio, with participants producing multiple interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a rooftop with views over the countryside. The fee covers five days of painting tuition; full board; and an excursion to the local castle and additional local sights.

Cost: From 1,950 euros for one week, May 19th to 26th.

Vegetarian Culinary in Portugal

This sun-drenched culinary holiday, located at a riverside villa in the inland Portuguese region, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Participants will master the art of selection of small dishes, attend a falafel-making workshop, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including a rich mushroom stew and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the village market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, plus leisure time for strolls by the Funcho River, to unwind on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The accommodation, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, as well as glamping tents in the grounds.

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

Hip Hop in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, welcoming weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style warm-up session, followed by several 90-minute workshops teaching different street dance styles, then an hour-long jam to demonstrate new moves. Dancers are split into levels according to skill level, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. This event doesn’t include accommodation but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

Cost: 245 pounds for three days; next course April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the excellent location for a maritime music retreat. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at composing original ones. There will be voice exercises, breath control techniques, performance tips and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a rural hotel overlooking St Ives Bay. Full board are provided, such as a traditional tea on the first day, breakfast options, packed lunches and evening meals. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not included. All together now: “What will we do with the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor Greg Mosse runs the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He covers topics including story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to sending manuscripts to agents. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the beginning and end of the retreat. The holiday is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a garden and pool (companions are welcome to come along). On the final evening, budding authors celebrate with a concert in the garden and a final meal.

Cost: From £893 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 host of programs on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This weekend introduction will help attendees learn the basics of apiary management, study the biology of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and uncommon bird species. Accommodation the evening prior is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their steering, build their nautical skills and aim for the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and overnight packages, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option includes packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights' stay and all meals, from full English breakfasts to evening barbecues.

Cost: Starting at £299. Dates on July 18th-20th and 4-6 September.

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be