The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this coming October. It has been fifty years since it welcomed its first guests in the center of the city, mere moments away from the former North Station and nestled at the base of the Príncipe Pío mountain.
During the vibrant era of the seventies in Madrid, the vision behind this establishment was so innovative that it required a unique term to encapsulate it: apartosuites. Tailored for extended stays, the spaciousness and comfort of its accommodations aimed to provide guests with more than merely a place to sleep; since its inception in 1974, it endeavored to deliver an authentic Madrid experience, blending the convenience of an apartment with the amenities typically found in a hotel.
Its accommodations, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a homely atmosphere that appeals to guests, a characteristic that quickly drew in notable visitors like the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who became frequent patrons due to the establishment’s serene environment, discretion, and outstanding service.
The City of Madrid, 1974
In October 1974, Madrid was a different world compared to what we see today. The Sabatini Gardens, which lend their name to the hotel, had been in the works since the 1930s, following the demolition of the Royal Palace stables. It wasn’t until 1978 that they were officially opened to the public. The grandfather of the present director, Bernardo García, who owned one of the earliest SEAT dealerships in Madrid, was responsible for constructing the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini right across from them, thereby broadening his business horizons.
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.
No remnants remained of the washerwomen who once descended the Cuesta de San Vicente toward the river, nor of their shelter, which had been torn down in the 1930s. Likewise, the first public swimming pool in Madrid, known as “Los baños del Niágara,” was also gone, having vanished to make way for Bernardo García’s concessionaire, and what now occupies that space is a parking lot adjacent to the hotel.
In this ever-evolving society, the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini was established and has adapted alongside it to the present day.
The Hotel today
The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini serves as a chance to discover the hotel as it stands today, showcasing all the improvements made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years. It has retained the concept of spacious rooms outfitted with kitchenettes, akin to apartments, while still providing the amenities typical of a hotel.
Among the most popular initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, which can be savored every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering some of the most breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Guests can reach it directly from the street via a glass elevator that showcases an impressive eight-story mural created by Brazilian artist Rogerio Fernandes.
From the moment you enter ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, you breathe art. In addition to this work by Fernandes, there are the installations of the urban art group Boa Mistura, located in different areas of the building, as well as his graffiti “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), covering 62 square meters. The painter Cristina Gamón, with her interventions in the hotel lobby and breakfast room, and Oscar Vautherin, author of the sculptures flanking the entrance and of the work “Five Left Feet” in the reception area, complete the lineup of artists.
A Hotel with an Automobile Museum That Transport You to Early 20th Century Madrid
One of the great attractions of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its exclusive classic car museum, located in the basement of the building. It was designed in memory of José Luis García at the request of his daughters Charo and Monica García Silgo.
This captivating collection boasts genuine automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a stylish Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section named España Cañí, where classic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa featured in the film “Amanece, que no es poco” are showcased.
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 Exclusive Views
During the entire 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. Planned activities for November will also feature guided tours of the classic car museum and a charitable 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 presents a special chance to rediscover a venue where history resonates in every nook, and warmth is evident from the very first visit. Fifty years of exceptional service, comfort, and unrivaled views of Madrid.
