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Discover a world of novel talents combined with stunning destinations. From scaling cliffs in Britain to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these journeys provide a superb mix of learning and holiday.

Bouldering in the National Park

Even complete beginners will rapidly be ascending sheltered Peak District crags on this short program. Learners will master tying in, safety techniques and multiple methods of ascent, as well as abseiling down. Capped at six participants to each tutor, there is significant individual attention and tailored objectives. The course is open to all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with some indoor experience. This is a day-only option, but you can find a selection of suggested, reasonably-priced places to stay nearby, such as campsites, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The venue is a brief walk from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Non-Representational Art in Spain

Moclín, a ancient white village in southern Spain, around a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this painting holiday. Participants of every skill level – including novices – will discover how to conceive and execute abstract artworks. Part of the schedule will be spent outdoors, working on tutorials in the open. These sketches and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees producing a number of interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be exhibited in the village. The group has sole use of the venue, which is centered on an central patio and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The cost covers five days of painting tuition; all meals; and an trip to the local castle and additional points of interest.

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

Plant-Based Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, set on a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of meze spreads, take part in a hands-on falafel session, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains such as spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the local market and a nearby winery to taste Portuguese wines, combined with free time for strolls by the Funcho River, to relax on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, inclusive three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a party-style warm-up session, then several hour-and-a-half workshops teaching various urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to show off new moves. Participants are split into levels according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are brand new to popping and locking, all the way to advanced dancers or instructors. The camp does not provide lodging but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into central London.

Cost: £245 for three days; next course 7-9 April.

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the perfect setting for a maritime music retreat. Guests will learn historic sailing songs from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, performance tips and a final evening concert. The retreat is held in a rural hotel overlooking the bay. All meals are provided, such as a Cornish cream tea on arrival, breakfast options, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, 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.

Creative Writing in Greece

Writer and tutor Greg Mosse runs the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores topics including plot, character development, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. A co-host, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the beginning and end of the week. The retreat is based at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – ten private accommodations surround a garden and pool (non-writing partners are welcome to come along). On the final evening, budding authors mark the occasion with a concert in the courtyard and a final meal.

Cost: From 893 pounds per person for one week (for double occupancy), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of courses covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This two-day introduction will help attendees get to grips with the basics of apiary management, explore the biology of honeybees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a chance to relax in the centre's carefully maintained forests, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Accommodation the night before is 80 pounds, 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 the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are aimed at adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Participants can hone their steering, build their seamanship and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight options, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside sailing school. The day option includes lunches, while the residential package includes two nights' stay and full board, from full English breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

The location for this swimming holiday is a {be