Learning holidays offer the perfect opportunity to combine travel with the excitement of mastering a new skill. Whether it’s surfing on the coast, cooking in the heart of Spain, or exploring the art of stone sculpting, these experiences can enrich a holiday in ways that go beyond the typical sightseeing. Readers share their favorite learning holidays, each offering a unique experience that is as educational as it is memorable.
For a coastal adventure, one reader shared their experience in Portrush, County Antrim, where they combined train and ferry travel to reach the town, followed by a stay close to the surf beach. The surf instructors at Alive Adventures provided an engaging experience for families, ensuring that both children and adults stayed warm and entertained in the unpredictable weather. The afternoons were spent exploring the beautiful Antrim coastline by bus, offering a relaxing way to take in the scenic surroundings after an exciting day of surfing.
A memorable wildlife experience took place on Skomer Island off the coast of Wales, where readers spent two nights with their children. Known for its seabirds, including puffins, the island offered an opportunity to participate in conservation efforts by tagging baby Manx shearwaters. The children loved being hands-on with nature, and the family joined evening birdwatching surveys, spotting puffins and gulls in their natural habitat. Staying overnight allowed them to fully immerse themselves in the magic of the island, deepening their appreciation for wildlife.
For those interested in music, a trip to Florence offered a chance to learn the art of a cappella singing. In a beautiful Renaissance church overlooking the River Arno, one reader took part in a week-long course that included relaxation exercises, vocal training, and learning to harmonize with others. Despite initially being the worst singer in the family, the experience left them with newfound confidence and a much-improved singing voice, along with cherished memories of the Italian city.
Writing enthusiasts found inspiration in the scenic surroundings of Arvon Lumb Bank in West Yorkshire. The former home of poet Ted Hughes, the location was perfect for a creative writing course. The stunning landscape, including nearby Top Withens, which inspired Emily Brontë’s Wuthering Heights, provided the ideal setting for writing. The course, combined with the rich literary history of the area, encouraged students to develop their own creative voices and connect with the environment that influenced some of the most famous works of English literature.
For those seeking adventure beneath the waves, the island of Gozo in Malta offered a chance to learn scuba diving. The three-day course at Bubbles Dive Centre included safety training and practical lessons, culminating in a recreational dive in the breathtaking Għasri Valley. The underwater beauty, with its luminous blue lighting and natural caves, provided an unforgettable experience for those eager to explore the Mediterranean’s depths.
In Ireland, readers took part in art workshops along the coast of County Waterford. Under the guidance of Neal Greig, one participant developed a love for oil painting while learning to capture the textures and colors of the Irish coastal landscapes. These workshops offered a peaceful escape from everyday life, providing a chance to connect with nature and creativity in a way that was both therapeutic and inspiring.
Other travelers embarked on culinary adventures in Spain, learning to cook traditional dishes like tortilla in the heart of Andalucía. The hands-on course in Moclin allowed participants to prepare meals for guests, honing their skills in a welcoming, immersive environment. The experience of cooking with local ingredients and mastering regional recipes was a rewarding and delicious part of their holiday.
For a more exhilarating experience, one reader shared their thrilling encounter with blue sharks off the coast of Cornwall. A snorkelling trip with Blue Shark Snorkel from Penzance offered a chance to observe these sleek creatures in their natural habitat. The experience required overcoming initial fears, but the calm and awe-inspiring moments spent in the water left a lasting impression on the adventurer.
Lastly, a stone sculpting course on the Isle of Portland provided the opportunity to create art from the island’s famous Portland stone. Guided by an artist couple, participants spent the week learning the craft of hand-carving, with the added bonus of daily swims in the nearby Church Ope Cove. The course, set against the backdrop of Chesil Beach, allowed students to connect with both the history and the natural beauty of the area while developing their artistic skills.
These learning holidays demonstrate how travel can become an enriching experience when paired with the pursuit of a new skill, offering lasting memories and personal growth.
