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Discover a realm of novel talents combined with incredible destinations. Starting with rock climbing in the UK to mosaic-making in Turkey, these particular experiences provide a superb mix of learning and escape.

Rock Climbing in the Peak District

Including absolute newcomers will rapidly be climbing sheltered Peak District crags on this short session. Learners will master securing the rope, safety techniques and a range of methods of ascent, plus descending. Capped at six learners to a single guide, there is plenty of individual attention and personalised targets. The training is suitable for all individuals over the age of 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with a bit of indoor experience. It is non-residential course, but you can find a list of recommended, reasonably-priced lodging nearby, including campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and pubs with rooms. The base is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, situated on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: 199 pounds for the weekend. Weekends from March 7th to November 8th, and weekday courses throughout the year.

Abstract Painting in Spain

Moclín, a historic white village in southern Spain, about a short drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this painting holiday. Painters of every skill level – even beginners – will learn how to design and produce non-representational pieces. Part of the schedule will be spent in the open air, working on guided exercises en plein air. These charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the studio, with guests creating several abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be shown in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the venue, which is built around an central patio and has a roof terrace with views over the hills. The cost covers five days’ painting tuition; all meals; and an excursion to the local castle and other points of interest.

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

Vegetarian Cooking in Portugal

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, based at a villa by the river in the central Algarve, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of celebrated cooks. Guests will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a hands-on falafel session, refine brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are visits to the village market and a nearby winery to taste local vintages, along with free time for strolls by the nearby river, to relax on the terrace or swim in the pool. The farmhouse, a former farmhouse, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an uplifting, inclusive three-day dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a party-style group warmup, then three 90-minute workshops covering different urban dance forms, then an hour-long freestyle session to show off those solos. Dancers are divided into levels according to ability and experience, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or instructors. This event does not provide lodging but there are a number of hostels and hotels nearby, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into London.

Cost: 245 pounds for the weekend; upcoming session 7-9 April.

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

This coastal town is the excellent location for a maritime music retreat. Participants 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 holiday is held in a country house overlooking the bay. Full board are included, such as a traditional tea on arrival, breakfast options, packed lunches and evening meals. Traditional rum, alas, is not included. Everyone join in: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

Cost: From 429 pounds. Available 31 January-3 February and 31 October-3 November.

Writing in Crete

Author and lecturer Greg Mosse conducts the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers topics including plot, character development, locations and suspense, to submitting work to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will participate in 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 Lefka Ori – ten private accommodations are set around a central garden with a pool (non-writing partners are encouraged to share). On the last night, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

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

Beginners' Apiculture in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of courses covering sustainability: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This two-day introduction will help participants understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the biology of honeybees and discover their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a opportunity to de-stress in the organization's sustainably managed forests, which are habitat for wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in Essex

These recently launched summer sailing weekends are spent on Wayfarers and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at adult beginners learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a refresher. Sailors can improve their steering, build their seamanship and work towards the recognized certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are day-only and residential packages, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option provides lunches, while the residential package covers two nights' stay and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Paphos

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