First Black Friday, then Cyber Monday, followed by Christmas, the sales… Do you feel as though all your plans revolve around shopping? Today we’re suggesting 5 original things to do in Madrid to kick off December in the most fun and unique way possible.

1. Bouncy castles and ball pits for adults

Becoming a kid again has never been easier. Jumping on bouncy castles, swimming through colourful balls, whizzing down giant slides, climbing a climbing tower, crawling, bouncing on trampolines… And if you add spending time with your friends to that, isn’t it the perfect plan? It’s called Rivasmax Park: three hours of games and non-stop fun, with access to the play area, face painting, group games, dinner and cake. Mind you, instead of soft drinks, they serve a few beers.

2. Art and wine: divine

If you like painting, make a note of XpresArte. It’s right in the heart of Madrid and, for three hours, an art instructor will guide you step by step through painting a picture, whilst you enjoy a glass of wine and hear secrets about the artist’s life, as well as painting techniques.

All you need is the desire to have a good time. You don’t need to know anything about painting or bring any materials, as they provide everything you need to create a work of art.

3. A clandestine dinner?

Yes, it’s possible. Eventos Monik organises clandestine gourmet events. These are social gatherings for between 15 and 20 people; a contribution of €35 is collected, and guests enjoy lunch or dinner with Monik as the hostess, who will welcome the participants, keep them company and explain how the event will unfold. She’ll also introduce the guests if they don’t know each other, as these gatherings can take place amongst work colleagues, a group of friends or people who haven’t met before and want to enjoy the company of new friends whilst savouring traditional flavours with exotic and modern twists.

4. Visit to La Gatoteca

What is La Gatoteca? It’s a cat shelter located right next to Atocha station, open to anyone who wants to meet its feline residents. You can enjoy a coffee whilst keeping the cats company. What’s more, they offer all sorts of activities: courses, talks and therapies related to these animals. It’s a truly fascinating place: wherever you look, there’ll be a cat!

5. Treating colds in Madrid’s salt caves

We’re sure you’ve never even considered a place like this: Salt Room Madrid.

The Madrid salt caves are a halotherapy centre, with four rooms dedicated to relaxation and treatment.

1. Salt Beach: a salt cave recreating a beach atmosphere with a floor, walls and ceiling made of salt.
2. Child’s Room: a space dedicated to little ones, combining fun with the benefits of salt micro-particles.
3. Pink Diamond: a floor covered in pink Himalayan salt for enjoyment alone or as a couple.
4. Rainforest: salt vapour in a rainforest setting. Especially suitable for sportspeople.

Halotherapy is particularly recommended for asthma, bronchiolitis, coughs and colds, amongst other conditions. It is also beneficial for ear and skin problems. It is effective in combating stress and exhaustion, and for athletes, as it promotes improved lung function and respiratory capacity.

Now it’s your turn to decide on a plan. And if you’ve got other, different, original and fun ideas, let us know!