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Discover a domain of novel talents combined with incredible destinations. From scaling cliffs in the UK to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these particular journeys provide an ideal blend of education and vacation.

Cliff Scaling in the Peaks

Even complete novices will soon be scaling sheltered regional crags on this weekend course. Participants will become proficient in tying in, safety techniques and several methods of ascent, along with rappelling. Limited to six learners to each tutor, there is a lot of one-on-one guidance and tailored objectives. The course is suitable for all individuals aged 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with a bit of gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation option, but there is a selection of recommended, reasonably-priced lodging in the vicinity, featuring campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and pubs with rooms. The venue is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Modern Art in Spain

This historic hillside village, a picturesque hillside village in southern Spain, approximately a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this creative getaway. Participants of every skill level – including novices – will be taught how to conceive and execute modern art. A portion of the time will be spent outdoors, working on tutorials in the open. These initial charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be worked on in the studio, with attendees producing a number of abstract landscapes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. The group has sole use of the venue, which is centered on an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The cost encompasses five days of painting tuition; full board; and an outing to the local castle and other points of interest.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Culinary in the Algarve

This sun-drenched foodie getaway, based at a villa by the river in the inland Algarve, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Attendees will master the art of selection of small dishes, attend a hands-on falafel session, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains such as spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes trips to the village market and a local vineyard to taste Portuguese wines, plus leisure time for strolls by the nearby river, to unwind on the deck or swim in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has multiple rooms, as well as safari tents in the grounds.

Cost: From €900 for a five-day retreat. Available from 20 March, 8 May, September 11th and November 13th.

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

This energetic camp is an energizing, welcoming three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, followed by several 90-minute workshops teaching different street dance styles, then an 60-minute jam to show off new moves. Participants are divided into groups based on ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to advanced dancers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include lodging but there are a number of hostels and hotels nearby, and it is under an hour by rail into central London.

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

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

St Ives is the excellent spot for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes voice exercises, breathing exercises, performance tips and a final evening concert. The retreat is based at a rural hotel overlooking the bay. All meals are included, such as a Cornish cream tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Traditional rum, unfortunately, is not included. All together now: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

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

Writing in Greece

Writer and tutor an experienced instructor runs the daily workshops on this writing retreat. He explores everything from story structure, character development, setting and suspense, to submitting work to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will participate in special sessions at the start and finish of the retreat. The retreat is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 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 musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

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

Beginners' Beekeeping in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a host of programs on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This weekend introduction will help attendees understand the basics of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of bees 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 home to 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. Dates on May 30th-31st and September 5th-6th.

Sailing for Novices in Essex

These new weekend sailing courses are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the estuary in Essex. They are designed for novice sailors learning the ropes or those with some knowledge who want a skills update. Sailors can hone their steering, strengthen their seamanship and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are day-only and overnight packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront sailing school. The non-residential package includes lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

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