The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this October. Half a century has elapsed since it welcomed its first guests in the center of the city, just a short distance from what was once the North Station and situated at the base of the Príncipe Pío hill.
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 accommodations, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a home-like atmosphere that quickly drew in a number of notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who became frequent visitors due to the establishment’s serene ambiance, intimate privacy, 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.
Many Spaniards, like him, chose to embark on enterprises that were believed to be promising at that time. With the dictatorship of General Franco evidently nearing its conclusion, the nation felt more integrated into a thriving Europe. Nearby the hotel, the area formerly occupied by the Cuartel de la Montaña had been transformed into the Temple of Debod, which was carefully transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid began to inspire visions of a contemporary city within a modern world.
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 evolving society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini emerged and has adapted alongside it up to the present day.
The Hotel Today
The celebration of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini’s anniversary serves as a chance to explore the establishment as it stands today, showcasing all the upgrades that have been implemented in the facilities, particularly over the past five years. While embracing the idea of spacious rooms equipped with kitchenettes akin to apartments, it continues to offer the amenities of a hotel.
Among the most popular initiatives in recent years is the High Altitude Brunch, available every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring, enjoyed on its stunning terrace, renowned for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Guests can access it directly from the street via a glass elevator that provides a glimpse of an impressive eight-story mural created by Brazilian artist Rogerio Fernandes.
Upon entering ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, one is immediately enveloped in art. In addition to Fernandes’s piece, the installations by the urban art collective Boa Mistura can be found throughout various spots in the building, including his graffiti titled “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The painter Cristina Gamón has contributed her artistry to the hotel lobby and breakfast area, while Oscar Vautherin has created the sculptures that grace the entrance and the piece “Five Left Feet” in the reception, rounding out the impressive roster of artists.
A Hotel with an Automobile Museum That Transport You to Early 20th Century Madrid
One of the standout features of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its private classic car museum, nestled in the building’s basement. This museum was created in honor of José Luis García, following a request from his daughters, Charo and Monica García Silgo.
This captivating collection features genuine automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a stylish Hispano-Suiza, and a dedicated area known as España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa from the film “Amanece, que no es poco” on display.
Hotel guests are entitled to a free visit to this space, which has become a must for lovers of motoring and Madrid’s cultural history. The large images that cover its walls, taken from the ABC newspaper archive, transport visitors to a time when these vehicles were part of the urban landscape.
Commemorative events with privileged 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 marks a truly special time for us, and we wish to celebrate it with everyone who has been part of our journey as well as those who are meeting us for the first time,” expresses Charo García Silgo. “We have seen the city evolve, and we take pride in being a venue that embodies the fusion of tradition and modernity, where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest asset remains our dedicated team.”
This 50th anniversary is a unique opportunity to rediscover a place where history is alive in every corner and hospitality is felt from the first visit. Half a century of excellence, comfort and unparalleled views of Madrid.
