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 that Madrid of the seventies, the concept of the establishment was so groundbreaking that it had to be baptized with a neologism coined ad hoc: apartosuites. The size and comfort of its rooms were geared to long stays and so, since its foundation in 1974, it set out to offer its guests much more than accommodation: a genuine Madrid experience combined with the comfort of an apartment and the services of a hotel.
The rooms, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a home-like atmosphere, a trait that quickly drew numerous notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert. They frequented the establishment for its serene environment, 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.
Similar to him, numerous Spaniards chose to embark on a venture that, during that period, was anticipated to thrive. The dictatorship of General Franco was evidently nearing its conclusion, and the nation was beginning to feel more integrated into a blossoming Europe. In the surroundings of the hotel, the area that had been cleared for the demolition of the Cuartel de la Montaña was now home to the temple of Debod, meticulously transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid offered glimpses of the dreams for a contemporary city in a modern era.
Gone were the remnants of the washerwomen who once descended the Cuesta de San Vicente towards the river, along with their asylum, which had been torn down in the 1930s. There was also no sign of Madrid’s first public swimming pool, “Los baños del Niágara,” which vanished to make way for Bernardo García’s dealership and now stands replaced by a parking lot adjacent to the hotel.
In this ever-evolving society, the ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini was established and has adapted alongside it to the present day.
The Hotel today
The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini serves as a chance to discover the hotel as it stands today, showcasing all the improvements made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years. It has retained the concept of spacious rooms outfitted with kitchenettes, akin to apartments, while still providing the amenities typical of a hotel.
One of the most successful initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, which every Saturday and Sunday from autumn to spring can be enjoyed on its exquisite terrace, known for having the most spectacular views of the Royal Palace. It is accessed directly from the street in a glass elevator that allows you to contemplate an eight-story mural, the work of Brazilian artist Rogerio Fernandes.
From the moment you enter ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, you breathe art. In addition to this work by Fernandes, there are the installations of the urban art group Boa Mistura, located in different areas of the building, as well as his graffiti “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), covering 62 square meters. The painter Cristina Gamón, with her interventions in the hotel lobby and breakfast room, and Oscar Vautherin, author of the sculptures flanking the entrance and of the work “Five Left Feet” in the reception area, complete the lineup 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 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 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 receive complimentary access to this space, which has turned into an essential stop for enthusiasts of automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The large photographs adorning the walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archive, immerse visitors in an era when these vehicles were integral to the city’s scenery.
Commemorative events with privileged views
Throughout October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary with special events held on its breathtaking terrace, offering the finest views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Upcoming activities in November will also feature guided tours of the classic car museum and a charity flea market.
“This 50th anniversary marks a truly special time for us, and we wish to celebrate it with everyone who has been part of our journey as well as those who are meeting us for the first time,” expresses Charo García Silgo. “We have seen the city evolve, and we take pride in being a venue that embodies the fusion of tradition and modernity, where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest asset remains our dedicated team.”
This 50th anniversary presents a remarkable chance to rediscover a space where history resonates in every corner and warmth is felt from the very first visit. Fifty years of outstanding service, comfort, and breathtaking views of Madrid.
