The distinctive Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks a milestone as it commemorates its 50th anniversary this October. It has been fifty years since this establishment first welcomed guests in the vibrant center of the city, conveniently located near the former North Station and nestled at the base of the Príncipe Pío hill.
During the vibrant Madrid of the seventies, the idea behind the establishment was so revolutionary that a unique term was created just for it: apartosuites. The spaciousness and coziness of its rooms were designed for extended visits, and thus, from its inception in 1974, it aimed to provide its patrons with much more than mere lodging: an authentic 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 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.
Like him, numerous Spaniards chose to embark on ventures that were anticipated to thrive at that moment. The dictatorship of General Franco was evidently approaching its conclusion, and the nation increasingly identified with a blossoming Europe. Nearby, the area that had once hosted the Cuartel de la Montaña was now home to the Temple of Debod, meticulously transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid was beginning to inspire dreams of a contemporary city within a modern world.
All remnants of the washerwomen who once made their way down the Cuesta de San Vicente toward the river had vanished, along with their asylum, which was torn down in the 30s. There was also no sign of Madrid’s first public swimming pool, “Los baños del Niágara,” which was lost to make way for Bernardo García’s concessionaire. Today, that location has been transformed into 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 anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini serves as a chance to explore the current state of the building, showcasing all the renovations made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years, while still preserving the idea of spacious rooms outfitted with kitchenettes, resembling apartments, yet complemented by the services 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.
Upon entering ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, one is enveloped in an atmosphere of art. Alongside Fernandes’ artwork, the installations created by the urban art collective Boa Mistura can be found in various locations throughout the building, including the expansive graffiti piece “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The contributions of painter Cristina Gamón in the hotel lobby and breakfast area, along with Oscar Vautherin’s sculptures flanking the entrance and the piece titled “Five Left Feet” at the reception, round out the impressive roster of artists featured here.
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, situated in the basement of the hotel. 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 remarkable automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a sophisticated Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section dubbed España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the well-known Vespa from the film “Amanece, que no es poco”.
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.
Celebratory 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 represents a truly significant milestone for us, and we wish to celebrate it with everyone who has contributed to our journey and those who are just discovering us,” states Charo García Silgo. “We have observed the transformations within the city, and we take pride in being a venue where tradition merges with modernity, and where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest asset 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.
