The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this October. It’s been five decades since it welcomed its first guests in the center 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.
Its rooms, with fully equipped kitchens, provide a feeling of home away from home, a quality that soon attracted many illustrious clients, such as the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, regulars of the establishment for its tranquility, privacy and excellent 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.
No remnants remained of the washerwomen who once descended the Cuesta de San Vicente towards the river, nor of their refuge, which was torn down in the 1930s. Likewise, there was no sign of the first public swimming pool in Madrid, known as “Los baños del Niágara,” which vanished in favor of Bernardo García’s concession, and now occupies what has become a parking lot adjacent to the hotel.
In this evolving society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini came into existence and has adapted alongside it to the current 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.
From the moment you step into ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, you are enveloped in art. In addition to Fernandes’ mural, the space features installations by the urban art collective Boa Mistura, positioned throughout various parts of the building, along with his graffiti piece “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The contributions of painter Cristina Gamón, seen in the hotel lobby and breakfast area, along with those of Oscar Vautherin, who crafted the sculptures flanking the entrance and the piece “Five Left Feet” in the reception area, round out the ensemble of talented artists.
A hotel with an automobile museum that takes you back to early 20th century Madrid
One of the major highlights of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its unique classic car museum, situated in the basement of the building. 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 sophisticated Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section dubbed España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles such as biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa from the film “Amanece, que no es poco.”
Hotel guests enjoy complimentary access to this space, which has become an essential stop for enthusiasts of automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The expansive images adorning its walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archive, whisk visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the city’s scenery.
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 offers a remarkable chance to explore a location where history resonates in every nook and the warmth of hospitality is felt from the very first visit. Fifty years of distinction, comfort, and unmatched views of Madrid await you.