THE BEST LEARNING BREAKS FOR 2016
01/01/2016
Premier Cottages (www.premiercottages.co.uk) is inviting holidaymakers to indulge their creative talents and discover new skills on a 2016 learning holiday. The luxury cottage collection is offering a range of courses, including photography, sailing, chocolate making and a selection of arts and crafts experiences.
Luxury Photography & Sailing at Waternook, Cumbria
Travellers can wave goodbye to the post-Christmas blues and explore the Lake Districts mountains and fells on a “Unique Ullswater Luxury Photography Course” at Waternook. Guests will receive exceptional photography tuition from “Landscape Photographer of the Year”, Mark Little John, and local photographer and mountain guide, Rod Ireland.
Alternatively, in Spring 2016 they can take to the water with the property’s sailing school in partnership with Ullswater Yacht Club. Perfect for beginners or seasoned sailors, the course offers an introduction to sailing and Royal Yacht Association training.
Situated in a private and secure 26-acre estate with over half a mile of lake frontage, Waternook is a chic hideaway. The ‘celebrity style’ property boasts a private cinema, boathouse, jetty and luxury concierge services such as butler, chauffeur service and in-house chef.
The “Unique Ullswater” photography course which starts on 26 February 2016, costs £850 per person, including three-nights accommodation with continental breakfast, packed lunches, two personal chef-prepared evening meals and travel on Ullswater Steamers. Photography guests will receive personal one to one tuition whilst non-photography guests will receive a £50 voucher towards concierge services. For further information on the sailing school please contact the owner. For more information call the owner on 07709 098507 or visit www.premiercottages.co.uk.
Chocolate-Tasting, Orienteering & Animal Husbandry at the Barn at Hall Farm, Powys
Situated beneath the Sugar Mountain Peak, the Barn at Hall Farm is nestled in the glorious countryside of the Brecon Beacons and is ideal for those seeking a self-catering break with a difference. Guests can forget about a January detox and head to the local confectionery, Black Mountain Gold Chocolate, for three hours of chocolate-making and tasting!
Families will love fun-filled, fact-packed days at the nearby Kate’s Country School. The traditional, mixed farm offers courses on animal husbandry, lambing and cider making. The more adventurous can take part in orienteering courses with Geo Park Ambassador Jeff Callaghan, who can co-ordinate a number of exciting outdoor activities including rock climbing and bush craft.
The luxurious barn conversion overlooks the Usk Valley and families can enjoy a hill walk up the mountain. On evenings and rainy days, kids can challenge one another to table tennis and pool in the games room, while Mum and Dad relax in front of the woodburner.
A three-night stay for up to seven guests, arriving 8 January 2016 costs £700.40. Three-hour courses cost from £85 per person at Black Mountain Gold Chocolate; a one-day course costs from £90 per person at Kate’s Country School; £45 per person for orienteering courses with Jeff Callaghan. For further information contact the owner.