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Discover a realm of fresh abilities combined with amazing locations. Starting with rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Türkiye, these journeys deliver a superb combination of learning and holiday.

Bouldering in the Peaks

Even total beginners will soon be climbing sheltered Peak District outcrops on this short program. Learners will become proficient in securing the rope, belaying and multiple climbing techniques, plus abseiling down. Capped at six learners to one instructor, there is plenty of individual attention and personalised targets. This program is suitable for anyone aged 13 and over, ranging from absolute beginners to those with a bit of indoor experience. It is non-accommodation option, but there is a range of suggested, budget-friendly accommodation nearby, featuring campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and inns. The venue is 10 minutes’ walk from the local train station, located on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

Cost: £199 for the weekend. Weekends from March 7th to November 8th, along with weekday courses most months.

Non-Representational Art in Spain

This historic hillside village, a ancient town in Andalucía, about 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating backdrop for this creative getaway. Artists of all abilities – including novices – will be taught how to conceive and execute modern art. Part of the schedule will be spent outdoors, working on structured activities in the open. These initial charcoal drawings and watercolour studies will then be expanded upon in the workspace, with attendees creating multiple interpretive scenes in acrylics to be displayed in the local community. The group has exclusive access of the hotel, which is centered on an central patio and has a rooftop with views over the countryside. The cost includes five days of art instruction; all meals; and an trip to the local castle and additional points of interest.

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

Ottolenghi-Inspired Culinary in the Algarve

This Mediterranean culinary holiday, located at a villa by the river in the central Portuguese region, is inspired by the plant-based cuisine of renowned chefs. Guests will master the art of meze spreads, attend a hands-on falafel session, perfect mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. The schedule includes visits to the local market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, plus free time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The accommodation, a former farmhouse, has multiple rooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an energizing, welcoming three-day adults’ street dance camp in High Wycombe. The daily schedule each day is a party-style warm-up session, followed by several 90-minute workshops covering various street dance styles, then an 60-minute freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Participants are divided into groups based on skill level, so it is suitable for those who are completely new to street dance, right up to advanced dancers or instructors. The camp doesn’t include accommodation but there are a number of places to stay within walking distance, and it is 23-35 minutes by train into central London.

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

Maritime Singing Break in Cornwall

St Ives is the perfect setting for a sea shanty weekend. Participants will be taught historic sailing songs from a experienced musician, and try their hand at composing original ones. The schedule includes vocal warmups, breathing exercises, performance tips and a final evening concert. The holiday is held in a country house overlooking St Ives Bay. Full board are included, such as a Cornish cream tea on the first day, cooked or continental breakfasts, lunches to go and evening meals. Traditional rum, alas, is not included. All together now: “How to handle the tipsy mariner …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Writer and lecturer Greg Mosse runs the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He explores topics including plot, characters, locations and tension, to sending manuscripts to publishers. Greg’s wife, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the beginning and end of the week. The retreat is held at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the White mountains – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to share). On the final evening, aspiring writers mark the occasion with a musical performance in the garden and a farewell dinner.

Cost: From 893 pounds per person for one week (based on two sharing), August 11th to 18th.

Introduction to Apiculture in Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs on eco-living: from wildlife gardening to upcycling. This two-day introduction will help participants understand the fundamentals of beekeeping, study the biology of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to de-stress in the centre's carefully maintained 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 pounds.

Cost: 248 pounds. Dates on May 30th-31st and 5-6 September.

Sailing for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These recently launched weekend sailing courses are spent on dinghies and Dufours on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at novice sailors starting out or those with some knowledge who want a refresher. Participants can hone their helming, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the recognized levels one to three in a supportive atmosphere. There are non-residential and overnight options, with accommodation 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 hearty breakfasts to evening barbecues.

Cost: From 299 pounds. Weekends on 18-20 July and 4-6 September.

Getting Started in Open-Water Swimming in Cyprus

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