A Dozen Fantastic Learning Getaways in the Continent for the Coming Year

Uncover a realm of fresh abilities combined with amazing places. From rock climbing in Britain to creating mosaics in Turkey, these experiences provide the perfect combination of learning and vacation.

Bouldering in the Peak District

Even absolute newcomers will quickly be ascending protected regional crags on this short course. Learners will master securing the rope, safety techniques and several methods of ascent, plus abseiling down. Capped at a half-dozen students to each tutor, there is a lot of personalized coaching and personalised targets. This program is open to all individuals aged 13 and over, from first-time climbers to those with some gym climbing background. It is day-only option, but you can find a selection of suggested, reasonably-priced accommodation nearby, including campsites, hostels, bed and breakfasts and pubs with rooms. The training centre is 10 minutes’ walk from Bamford railway station, which is on the rail route from Manchester to Sheffield.

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

Abstract Painting in Andalucía

This historic hillside village, a picturesque white village in Andalucía, around a short drive from Granada, is the breathtaking location for this art retreat. Painters of all abilities – even novices – will discover how to design and produce abstract artworks. Some time will be spent outside, working on guided exercises en plein air. These initial sketches and paintings will then be worked on in the studio, with guests producing a number of interpretive scenes in acrylic paint to be displayed in the local community. Participants has exclusive access of the venue, which is set around an open courtyard and has a sun terrace with views over the hills. The cost includes five days of painting tuition; full board; and an trip to the nearby fortress and other points of interest.

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

Plant-Based Cooking in Portugal

This Mediterranean foodie getaway, set on a riverside villa in the inland Portuguese region, is draws inspiration from the vegetarian dishes of celebrated cooks. Attendees will master the art of meze spreads, attend a hands-on falafel session, refine mid-morning meals such as shakshuka, and make hearty mains such as spicy mushroom ragu and moussaka. There are visits to the village market and a local vineyard to sample local vintages, along with free time for strolls by the Funcho River, to unwind on the deck or take a dip in the pool. The farmhouse, a renovated rural property, has five bedrooms, plus safari tents in the gardens.

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

Hip Hop in Buckinghamshire

Hip Hop Don’t Stop is an uplifting, welcoming weekend dance intensive for adults in High Wycombe. The format throughout the camp is a party-style group warmup, then three hour-and-a-half classes teaching different street dance styles, then an hour-long freestyle session to demonstrate new moves. Participants are split into levels based on skill level, so it is perfect for those who are brand new to popping and locking, right up to experienced performers or teachers. The camp doesn’t include accommodation but there are several hostels and hotels within walking distance, and it is under an hour by rail into central London.

Cost: £245 for the weekend; next course April 7th to 9th.

Maritime Singing Weekend in Cornwall

This coastal town is the perfect setting for a sea shanty weekend. Guests will be taught traditional shanties from a folk singer and vocal coach, and have a go at writing their own. The schedule includes voice exercises, breathing exercises, performance tips and a final evening concert. The holiday is held in a rural hotel with views of the bay. All meals are included, such as a Cornish cream tea on the first day, breakfast options, packed lunches and three-course dinners. Grog, alas, is not included. Everyone join in: “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

Author and tutor Greg Mosse leads the regular sessions on this authors' getaway. He covers everything from plot, character development, locations and tension, to submitting work to agents. Greg’s wife, the well-known writer Kate Mosse, will co-host special sessions at the start and finish of the week. The holiday is based at a village-style hotel in Vamos at the base of the Lefka Ori – 10 one- and two-bedroom cottages surround a central garden with a pool (companions are welcome to share). On the last night, budding authors mark the occasion with a musical performance in the garden and a final meal.

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

Introduction to Beekeeping in Mid Wales

A leading eco-centre near Machynlleth runs a wide range of programs on eco-living: from creating habitats to making pallet furniture. This two-day course will help participants understand the basics of apiary management, study the life cycle of bees and learn about their ecological importance. It is designed to produce “bee-friendly beekeepers”. This course is also a chance to de-stress in the organization's sustainably managed woodlands, which are home to wildlife, otters, dormice, bats and rare birds. Bed and breakfast the night before is 80 pounds, and full-board accommodation for the weekend is 97 pounds.

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

Yachting for Beginners in Essex

These new summer sailing weekends are spent on dinghies and keelboats on the estuary in Essex. They are aimed at adult beginners starting out or more experienced mariners who want a skills update. Sailors can hone their helming, strengthen their seamanship and work towards the Royal Yachting Association’s certification levels in a fun, welcoming environment. There are non-residential and overnight options, with accommodation in basic shared rooms in the waterfront training centre. The day option includes lunches, while the overnight option covers two nights’ accommodation and full board, from full English breakfasts to BBQ dinners.

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

Introduction to Sea Swimming in Paphos

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