The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this October. Half a century has gone by since it welcomed its first guests in the very heart of the city, just a short distance from the former North Station and nestled at the base of the Príncipe Pío mountain.
In the Madrid of the seventies, the idea behind this establishment was so innovative that it needed a newly created term: apartosuites. Designed with spaciousness and comfort in mind, its rooms were intended for extended visits. Thus, from its inception in 1974, it aimed to provide guests with far more than just a place to stay: a true Madrid experience that blended the convenience of an apartment with the amenities of a hotel.
The rooms, featuring fully furnished kitchens, create a comforting atmosphere reminiscent of home, a feature that quickly drew in notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who frequented the venue for its serene ambiance, seclusion, and outstanding service.
Madrid, 1974
In October 1974 Madrid was nothing like today. The Sabatini Gardens, from which the hotel takes its name, had been under construction since the 1930s, after the stables of the Royal Palace were demolished. They were not officially inaugurated until 1978. The grandfather of the current director, Bernardo García, owner of one of the first SEAT dealerships in Madrid, was the one who built the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini in front of them, expanding his business.
Similar to him, numerous Spaniards chose to embark on a venture that, during that period, was anticipated to thrive. The dictatorship of General Franco was evidently nearing its conclusion, and the nation was beginning to feel more integrated into a blossoming Europe. In the surroundings of the hotel, the area that had been cleared for the demolition of the Cuartel de la Montaña was now home to the temple of Debod, meticulously transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid offered glimpses of the dreams for a contemporary city in a modern era.
Gone were the remnants of the washerwomen who once descended the Cuesta de San Vicente towards the river, along with their asylum, which had been torn down in the 1930s. There was also no sign of Madrid’s first public swimming pool, “Los baños del Niágara,” which vanished to make way for Bernardo García’s dealership and now stands replaced by a parking lot adjacent to the hotel.
In this dynamic society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini came into existence and has adapted alongside it up to the present day.
The Hotel Today
The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini provides a chance to discover the hotel as it stands now, following numerous renovations made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years. The essence of its spacious rooms, furnished with kitchenettes like apartments, has been preserved, all while offering the amenities of a hotel.
One of the standout initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, available every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Access to the terrace is provided directly from the street via a glass elevator that showcases an impressive eight-story mural created by Brazilian artist Rogerio Fernandes.
Upon entering ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of art. In addition to Fernandes’ piece, the urban art collective Boa Mistura has contributed installations throughout various parts of the building, including their graffiti titled “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The artistic contributions of painter Cristina Gamón, who has enhanced the hotel lobby and breakfast area, alongside Oscar Vautherin, creator of the sculptures that greet visitors at the entrance and the piece “Five Left Feet” in the reception space, complete the ensemble of featured artists.
A Hotel Featuring an Automobile Museum that Whisks You Back to Early 20th Century Madrid
One of the standout features of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its unique classic car museum, nestled in the building’s basement. This museum was created in honor of José Luis García at the request of his daughters, Charo and Monica García Silgo.
This fascinating collection includes true automotive gems, such as a 1915 Ford T, an elegant Hispano-Suiza and a special corner called España Cañí, where iconic vehicles such as biscuters, motorcycles and the famous Vespa from the movie “Amanece, que no es poco” are on display.
Hotel guests enjoy complimentary access to this area, which has become an essential stop for enthusiasts of both automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The expansive images adorning the walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archives, take visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the cityscape.
Commemorative Events with Exclusive Views
During the month of October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary with special events held on its stunning terrace, offering the finest views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Scheduled activities for November will also feature guided visits to the classic car museum, along with a charity flea market.
“This 50th anniversary is a particularly significant milestone for us, and we aim to celebrate it with everyone who has contributed to our journey, as well as those visiting for the first time,” remarks Charo García Silgo. “We have observed the city transform over the years, and we take pride in being a venue where tradition intertwines with modernity, where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest strength remains our dedicated team.”
This 50th anniversary presents a remarkable chance to rediscover a space where history resonates in every corner and warmth is felt from the very first visit. Fifty years of outstanding service, comfort, and breathtaking views of Madrid.
