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Explore a world of new skills combined with stunning locations. Starting with rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Turkey, these particular experiences offer an ideal blend of education and holiday.

Rock Climbing in the Peaks

Even absolute beginners will rapidly be scaling sheltered regional outcrops on this short program. Learners will learn securing the rope, belaying and several climbing techniques, plus rappelling. Capped at six learners to one instructor, there is plenty of personalized coaching and tailored objectives. The training is open to anyone aged 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with a bit of gym climbing background. It is non-residential course, but you can find a selection of suggested, budget-friendly places to stay nearby, featuring campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The base is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, located on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

Moclín, a historic hillside village in southern Spain, approximately 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating location for this painting holiday. Participants of all abilities – even beginners – will discover how to design and produce abstract artworks. Some time will be spent outdoors, working on guided exercises out in nature. These sketches and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the studio, with participants completing several interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be shown in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is set around an central patio and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The price includes five days of art instruction; all meals; and an excursion to the local castle and other points of interest.

Cost: Starting at 1,950 euros for seven nights, 19-26 May.

Ottolenghi-Inspired Cooking in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, based at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Guests will master the art of meze spreads, attend a falafel-making workshop, 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 nearby winery to sample local vintages, plus leisure time for walks by the nearby river, to relax on the terrace or take a dip in the pool. The villa, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, as well as safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, then three 90-minute workshops covering different urban dance forms, then an 60-minute jam to show off new moves. Participants are split into groups according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to popping and locking, all the way to experienced performers or instructors. This event doesn’t include lodging but there are several places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by rail into London.

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

Sea Shanty Weekend in Cornwall

This coastal town is the perfect setting for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will learn traditional shanties from a experienced musician, and try their hand at writing their own. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, performance tips and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a country house with views of the bay. All meals are included, including a traditional tea on arrival, breakfast options, lunches to go and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, alas, is not provided. Everyone join in: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Author and tutor Greg Mosse conducts the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores topics including story structure, character development, setting and tension, to submitting work to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in events at the start and finish of the week. The holiday is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – ten one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a garden and pool (non-writing partners are welcome to share). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a concert in the garden and a final meal.

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

Introduction to Beekeeping in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering eco-living: from creating habitats to making pallet furniture. This two-day course will help participants understand the basics of beekeeping, study the biology of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to de-stress in the organization's sustainably managed woodlands, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Accommodation the evening prior is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Sailing for Novices in Essex

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for adult beginners learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their steering, strengthen their nautical skills and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential options, staying in simple dorms in the waterfront sailing school. The non-residential package provides packed lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights' stay and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Cyprus

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be