🔗 Share this article

Discover a domain of novel talents alongside stunning destinations. From rock climbing in Britain to mosaic-making in Turkey, these journeys offer an ideal mix of learning and escape.

Rock Climbing in the National Park

Even absolute novices will soon be scaling sheltered regional outcrops on this weekend program. Participants will learn tying in, belaying and several climbing techniques, as well as descending. With a maximum of a half-dozen students to a single guide, there is plenty of one-on-one guidance and custom goals. The course is appropriate for all individuals aged 13 and over, ranging from first-time climbers to those with limited indoor experience. This is a day-only option, but there is a selection of suggested, reasonably-priced places to stay nearby, featuring campgrounds, hostels, B&Bs and inns. The base is a brief walk from the local train station, situated on the Hope Valley line from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Spain

This historic hillside village, a historic hillside village in southern Spain, around 45 minutes’ drive from Granada, is the stimulating setting for this art retreat. Participants of every skill level – even novices – will be taught how to conceive and execute modern art. A portion of the time will be spent in the open air, working on tutorials in the open. These initial charcoal drawings and paintings will then be expanded upon in the studio, with attendees producing multiple interpretive scenes in acrylics to be displayed in the village. The group has sole use of the hotel, which is centered on an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The price includes five days’ art instruction; full board; and an trip to the nearby fortress and additional local sights.

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

Plant-Based Culinary in Portugal

This Mediterranean cooking retreat, based at a villa by the river in the inland Portuguese region, is inspired by the vegetarian dishes of renowned chefs. Attendees will master the art of selection of small dishes, take part in a falafel-making workshop, perfect brunch dishes such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains including spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are trips to the local market and a nearby winery to taste Portuguese wines, along with leisure time for walks by the nearby river, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the infinity pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, plus glamping tents in the gardens.

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

Street Dance in High Wycombe

This energetic camp is an uplifting, inclusive weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a high-energy group warmup, followed by several 90-minute workshops teaching various urban dance forms, then an 60-minute freestyle session to demonstrate those solos. Participants are divided into groups based on skill level, so it is perfect for those who are completely new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or instructors. The camp 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; next course 7-9 April.

Maritime Singing Weekend in Cornwall

St Ives is the ideal 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. There will be vocal warmups, breath control techniques, stagecraft advice and a final evening concert. The holiday is based at a rural hotel overlooking the bay. Full board are provided, including a Cornish cream tea on arrival, breakfast options, packed lunches and evening meals. Grog, alas, is not included. All together now: “What will we do with the drunken sailor …?”

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

Creative Writing in Crete

Author and tutor an experienced instructor conducts the regular sessions on this writing retreat. He covers topics including plot, character development, setting and tension, to submitting work to publishers. A co-host, the bestselling author Kate Mosse, will co-host events at the beginning and end of the week. The retreat is based at a traditional complex in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – 10 private accommodations are set around a garden and pool (companions are encouraged to come along). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a musical performance in the courtyard and a final meal.

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

Beginners' Apiculture in Mid Wales

The Centre for Alternative Technology near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs on sustainability: from wildlife gardening to making pallet furniture. This weekend introduction will help attendees learn the basics of apiary management, explore the biology of honeybees and learn about their environmental benefits. It is designed to produce “ecologically mindful beekeepers”. The weekend is also a opportunity to relax in the organization's sustainably managed forests, which are habitat for polecats, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is £80, and all meals and lodging during the course is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in the Blackwater Estuary

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and keelboats on the Blackwater estuary. They are aimed at novice sailors learning the ropes or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Sailors can improve their steering, strengthen their nautical skills and aim for the recognized certification levels in a supportive atmosphere. There are day-only and overnight packages, staying in basic shared rooms in the waterside training centre. The non-residential package provides packed lunches, while the residential package includes two nights' stay and all meals, from hearty breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Getting Started in Sea Swimming in Cyprus

The location for this swim camp is a {be