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.
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 looked completely different than it does now. The Sabatini Gardens, which inspired the hotel’s name, had been in the works since the 1930s following the demolition of the Royal Palace stables. They weren’t officially opened until 1978. The grandfather of the current director, Bernardo García, who owned one of Madrid’s earliest SEAT dealerships, constructed the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini in front of the gardens, thereby expanding his business venture.
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.
There was no trace left of the washerwomen who used to go down the Cuesta de San Vicente towards the river, nor of their asylum, demolished in the 30’s. Neither was there any trace of the first public swimming pool in Madrid, “Los baños del Niágara”, which disappeared in pursuit of Bernardo García’s concessionaire, and which today is a parking lot next to the hotel.
In this ever-evolving society, the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini was established and has adapted alongside it to the present day.
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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 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, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of art. In addition to Fernandes’ piece, the urban art collective Boa Mistura has contributed installations throughout various parts of the building, including their graffiti titled “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The artistic contributions of painter Cristina Gamón, who has enhanced the hotel lobby and breakfast area, alongside Oscar Vautherin, creator of the sculptures that greet visitors at the entrance and the piece “Five Left Feet” in the reception space, complete the ensemble of featured 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 private classic car museum, situated in the building’s basement. This unique space was created in tribute to 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 named España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa from the film “Amanece, que no es poco.”
Hotel guests enjoy complimentary access to this venue, which has become an essential stop for enthusiasts of automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The expansive images adorning the walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archive, whisk visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the city’s landscape.
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 is an incredibly significant milestone for us, and we want to celebrate it with everyone who has been a part of our journey as well as those who are discovering us for the first time,” states Charo García Silgo. “We have seen the city transform over the years and take pride in being a location where tradition intersects with modernity, and where, even with the most advanced technologies available, our greatest strength continues to be 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.
