If there is something we like about Christmas, besides the nougat and lights, are those plans that can only be done when the cold presses. And if we talk about icy plans, the ice skating rinks take the cake. However, since the recent drought, we are more aware of the impact of facilities like these, and that’s why it’s good news to talk about the Splau shopping center, which has installed the largest, most supportive and eco-friendly ice rink in the Baix Llobregat.
As part of the “Much more than Christmas” campaign, Splau’s Gran Pista (308 m²) was created with a clear social purpose. All proceeds will go to the local association Tots Som de Cor, a non-profit organization in Cornellà dedicated to raising awareness, including and improving the welfare of children and young people with disabilities or functional diversity.
Zero water and 175,000 kWh savings: the synthetic revolution
What is really groundbreaking about this installation is its environmental commitment, which places it at the forefront of the trend that seeks alternatives to natural ice in Barcelona. While other Christmas options in Barcelona opt for smaller rinks with synthetic materials, such as the 200 m² rink in Tibidabo or the 400 m² rink made of recycled material in Port Vell, the Cornellà shopping center has opted for a system made entirely of recyclable materials.
This technology manages to eliminate one of the biggest headaches of traditional rinks: energy consumption and water waste. Thanks to this zero-ice system, Splau is committed to avoiding the use of 40,000 liters of water, which is the equivalent of filling 16 Olympic-size swimming pools. As if that were not enough, the reduction in the carbon footprint is remarkable, with energy savings amounting to 175,000 kWh, the energy needed by almost 60 Catalan households for a full year.
Timetables and prices so as not to miss the event
Splau’s Gran Pista will be open for the enjoyment of young and old alike until January 11. The opening hours are adapted to the festive calendar, opening on weekdays from 5 to 9 pm, while on weekends and public holidays the opening hours are extended from 11 am to 9 pm. From December 22, the skating plan will operate every day from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., with slight modifications on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and Three Kings’ Eve (December 24, 31 and January 5), remaining closed on December 25 and January 1.
Tickets are priced at the popular price of 5 euros, and if you are a member of the Splau Club, you get a one euro discount. Thinking that no one is left out, they have enabled dolphins and seals support for the most insecure or small skaters (for 2 euros extra), and most importantly, an adapted chair for people with reduced mobility can also slide down the icy parquet.