I recently took my kids to El Cau, a new play centre in Barcelona’s L’Eixample district. Designed exclusively for children, it’s a play paradise, created for enjoyment, fun and creativity. It’s an ideal place to go on a rainy day, or when the kids need to burn off some excess energy.
Whether you live in Barcelona or are just visiting, El Cau is somewhere where the children are guaranteed to have fun and make friends, while parents can enjoy snacks, chats and spot of relaxation.
What is it?
The concept is similar to that of a gym, but instead of going there for exercise, kids go there to play. One part of the interior space is filled with toys, games, arts and crafts, whilst the other part has an innovative maze-like design with steps, ramps, toboggans and huts where children can run, climb, jump and hide.
How does it work?
Parents go free – but children pay an admission fee. Every child must be accompanied by an adult. Once inside, you can stay as long as you like.
For long term residents of Barcelona, one can pay a monthly membership, but for those who are visiting or just want to try it out for a day, there is a one-day rate. Second siblings get a 25% discount, and third siblings get 50% off.
El Cau for Babies
On weekday mornings El Cau welcomes babies (0 to 3 years) and their mums and/or dads. Parents can play with their tiny tots and get them used to socialising with other little ones, and also meet other new mums and dads. A series of guided activities including yoga, creative endeavours and games, as well as options for pregnant mums, are also arranged.
El Cau for Kids
In the afternoons, El Cau is the kingdom of the kids. The space is available for them to let off steam and play to their heart’s content! As well as plenty of physical exertion, there are toys and games, books, crayons and more to inspire, intrigue and and encourage discovery.
Guided activities
Staff direct certain activities, showing little ones how to use certain tools or explaining rules for team games. Workshops are also regularly held and range from storytelling and music to painting, theatre and magic.
Sundays at El Cau
On Sundays El Cau transforms into a cosy little theatre. Kids sit on cushions on the floor and are kept spellbound by puppet shows, dancing, circus acts and more! My son absolutely loved the magic show!
El Cau for parents
For parents, El Cau offers a welcome break from keeping the young ones entertained, and the joy of watching them creating their own fun. Fresh fruit juice, tea, coffee, sandwiches and snacks are available at the snack bar, where parents and grandparents can meet and socialise with other parents while the kids run wild.
For more information on this great new indoor play centre in Barcelona please visit El Cau Website.
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