Best getaways for learning new skills

For a relaxation break, Yoga will help you truly unwind. Designed to help you find your inner zen, yoga retreats are healing for both the body and mind and can make you feel refreshed upon your return.

You don’t need to be an expert either, many yoga retreats are popular with beginners. Learning yoga on holiday means that you get to practice it in idyllic surroundings, enabling you to connect with nature on a deeper level. Just think of the calming sounds and stunning views you’ll get to experience while stretching out.

Many retreats balance yoga sessions with free time, so you can enjoy some downtime to relax and do your own thing. For the ultimate in rejuvenation, head to eco-friendly hotel Michès Playa Esmeralda in the Dominican Republic where you can enjoy tree-top yoga surrounded by the palm trees of the ZEN Oasis. A true tropical paradise for reaching a deep meditative state.

Savour the views from striking hilltops and explore the extraordinarily beautiful countryside with a mountain biking holiday. If you have limited off-roading experience, don’t worry, many biking hotspots include easier routes for beginners.

A biking escape lets you make the most of breath-taking national parks and soaring mountains. You’ll be able to capture amazing photos from picture-perfect viewpoints and maybe even watch the sunset, all while mastering a new skill. You might even have the chance to explore off-route trails that lead through forests and rivers. We especially love Valmorel in the French Alps, a preserved forestry with magnificent views of the Beaufortain mountains.

If you’re looking to take up an easy holiday pursuit that’s so enjoyable you won’t mind feeling like a beginner, why not try your hand at water sports? There’s usually always an abundance of water-based activities to choose from when holidaying abroad in sunny climates.

For a truly mesmerising backdrop while you test out your skills on the water, head to La Pointe aux Canonniers in Mauritius where you can try out wakeboarding, sailing, or paddle boarding. Then, when you’re back on shore, wind down with a drink or two.

Scale enormous heights, take in panoramic views, and make incredible memories on a holiday resort nestled in the mountains. Mountain getaways are great for all the family and offer the opportunity to try out a variety of activities, whether that’s taking on the challenge of mountain biking, rock-climbing, or hiking up rugged terrain.

Many of our mountain resorts transform from ski-resorts to summer holiday villages. For a mountain break with a difference, we love family-friendly resort Club Med Pragelato Sestriere in Italy. Here you can hike to the impressive Fenestrelle Fortress, the largest fortified site in Europe. Located in-between hilly cliffs and peaks, it promises captivating views of neighbouring Fenestrelle.

Skiing and snowboarding are sports that are suitable for anyone, no matter what age. Most ski resorts offer beginner courses, making it the perfect pastime for ski novices, young or old.

You’re guaranteed a ski holiday you’ll never forget in the French resort of Grand Massif Samoens Morillon, where friendly ski instructors will quickly build your confidence on the slopes of Savoie. This destination is ideal for first timers, with over 50% easy slopes and stunning views overlooking the Gifree valley.

As well as ski lessons, you’ll be able to sample luxury cuisine, enjoy some downtime at the spa, or unwind with a cocktail.

A holiday that includes cookery classes on its agenda is the perfect way to satisfy your taste buds, learn about a country’s culture, and acquire new kitchen skills.

Cookery classes abroad are great for kids, too. Club Med Kani is a pocket of paradise in the Maldives, which boasts a Mini Club Med activity club. Here, kids can take up cooking lessons among other learning workshops.

For an authentic cooking experience, head to the Seychelles, where kids can take part in our Mini Clubs workshops designed to immerse them in the country’s way of life. They’ll explore the vegetable garden to awaken their senses and then cook up a selection of tasty treats.

If you’re a foodie who’s looking to taste delectable cuisine that wows, head to Cancún, where you can indulge in delicious Mexican tacos and guacamole at the lively oceanfront restaurant, Taco Arte Beach Lounge Artisan.