The emblematic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel celebrates its 50th anniversary this October. Five decades have passed since it first opened its doors in the heart of the capital, a stone’s throw from the then North Station and at the foot 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.
The accommodations, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a comforting atmosphere reminiscent of home, a feature that quickly drew numerous notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert. They became frequent visitors, lured by the establishment’s serene ambiance, discretion, and exceptional 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.
Similar to him, many Spaniards chose to embark on ventures that were expected to thrive during that period. The dictatorship of General Franco was evidently nearing its conclusion, and the nation was increasingly integrating into a vibrant Europe. Nearby the hotel, the area previously occupied by the Cuartel de la Montaña, which had been demolished, was transformed with the arrival of the Temple of Debod, carefully transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid began to inspire visions 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 emerged and has adapted alongside it up to the present day.
Current State of the Hotel
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.
One of the standout initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, available every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Access to the terrace is provided 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 immediately feels the presence of art. In addition to the piece by Fernandes, you’ll find installations by the urban art collective Boa Mistura situated throughout the building, alongside his graffiti mural “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The painter Cristina Gamón has enhanced the hotel lobby and breakfast area with her artistic touches, while Oscar Vautherin has contributed sculptures that grace the entrance, as well as the piece titled “Five Left Feet” in the reception space, rounding out this impressive roster of artists.
A Hotel Featuring an Automobile Museum That Whisks 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 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.
Celebratory Events with Exclusive 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 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 is a unique opportunity to rediscover a place where history is alive in every corner and hospitality is felt from the first visit. Half a century of excellence, comfort and unparalleled views of Madrid.