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.
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.
The City of Madrid, 1974
In October 1974, Madrid bore little resemblance to its current self. The Sabatini Gardens, after which the hotel is named, had been undergoing development since the 1930s, following the dismantling of the Royal Palace’s stables. However, they were not officially opened until 1978. The founder of the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini was the grandfather of the present director, Bernardo García, who owned one of the first SEAT dealerships in Madrid, marking a significant expansion of his business by constructing the hotel right across from the gardens.
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.
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 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 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.
Among the most popular initiatives in recent years is the High Altitude Brunch, which can be savored every Saturday and Sunday from autumn to spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Visitors 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 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 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 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 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 privileged views
Throughout the month of October, the hotel will celebrate its 50th anniversary with exclusive events on its spectacular terrace with the best views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Activities scheduled for November also include guided tours of the classic car museum and 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 rare chance to re-experience a space where history resonates in every nook and the warmth of hospitality is palpable from the very first visit. Five decades of outstanding service, comfort, and breathtaking views of Madrid await.