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.
Its accommodations, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a homely atmosphere that appeals to guests, a characteristic that quickly drew in notable visitors like the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who became frequent patrons due to the establishment’s serene environment, discretion, and outstanding 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.
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.
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 dynamic society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini came into existence and has adapted alongside it up to the present 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.
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.
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 Transports 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 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 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
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 is a very special moment for us, and we want to share it with all those who have been part of our history and those who wish to meet us for the first time,” says Charo García Silgo. “We have witnessed the city change and we are proud to be a place where tradition meets modernity and where, despite having the latest technologies, our main asset is still our human 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.