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Uncover a domain of novel talents alongside stunning destinations. Starting with scaling cliffs in the UK to creating mosaics in Türkiye, these particular journeys offer the perfect mix of learning and escape.

Cliff Scaling in the National Park

Even total newcomers will quickly be climbing protected Peak District rock faces on this two-day session. Participants will learn tying in, safety techniques and several climbing techniques, plus rappelling. Limited to six learners to one instructor, there is plenty of individual attention and tailored objectives. The course is open to all individuals over the age of 13 and over, from absolute beginners to those with some gym climbing background. It is non-accommodation course, but there is a range of suggested, budget-friendly accommodation close by, featuring campsites, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The training centre is a short stroll from Bamford railway station, which is on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Modern Art in Spain

This historic hillside village, a historic hillside village in southern Spain, around a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this art retreat. Painters of every skill level – even novices – will learn how to conceive and execute modern art. Some time will be spent outside, working on structured activities out in nature. These sketches and paintings will then be worked on in the workspace, with participants producing multiple abstract landscapes in acrylic paint to be displayed in the local community. Participants has sole use of the hotel, which is centered on an central patio and has a rooftop with views over the countryside. The fee covers five days’ art instruction; full board; and an outing to the local castle and other points of interest.

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

Plant-Based Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, located at a riverside villa in the inland Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Attendees will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in 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 local vintages, along with leisure time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the terrace or swim in the infinity pool. The villa, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an energizing, inclusive weekend adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style warm-up session, followed by several 90-minute classes covering different urban dance forms, then an hour-long freestyle session to show off new moves. Participants are split into groups according to ability and experience, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or instructors. This event doesn’t include accommodation but there are a number of hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is under an hour by train into London.

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

Sea Shanty Break in St Ives

St Ives is the ideal location for a maritime music retreat. Guests will be taught historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and have a go at composing original ones. There will be vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a closing performance. The holiday is based at a rural hotel with views of St Ives Bay. All meals are included, such as a traditional tea on arrival, cooked or continental breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, unfortunately, is not included. Everyone join in: “How to handle the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Greece

Writer and lecturer an experienced instructor leads the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from story structure, characters, locations and suspense, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the beginning and end of the retreat. The holiday is based at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the foot of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages are set around a garden and pool (companions are welcome to share). On the last night, budding authors celebrate with a musical performance in the courtyard and a farewell dinner.

Cost: Starting at 893 pounds per person for seven nights (based on two sharing), 11-18 August.

Introduction to Apiculture in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs covering sustainability: from creating habitats to making pallet furniture. This weekend introduction will help attendees get to grips with the fundamentals of beekeeping, explore the life cycle of honeybees and learn about their ecological importance. It is aimed at produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to relax in the centre's sustainably managed forests, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, lesser horseshoe bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the evening prior is 80 pounds, and all meals and lodging for the weekend is £97.

Cost: 248 pounds. Sessions on 30-31 May and 5-6 September.

Sailing for Beginners in Essex

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are designed for novice sailors starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can improve their helming, strengthen their seamanship 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 simple dorms in the waterside sailing school. The non-residential package provides lunches, while the overnight option includes two nights' stay and full board, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Paphos

The setting for this swimming holiday is a {be