Join the 50th anniversary celebration at ApartoSuites Jardines Sabatini

The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this October. Half a century has gone by since it welcomed its first guests in the very heart of the city, just a short distance from the former North Station and nestled at the base of the Príncipe Pío mountain.

In the Madrid of the seventies, the idea behind the establishment was so innovative that it required a newly created term: apartosuites. The spacious and cozy rooms were designed for extended stays, and from its inception in 1974, it aimed to provide its visitors with more than just a place to stay: a true Madrid experience that blends the comfort of an apartment with the amenities of a hotel. 

The rooms, featuring fully furnished kitchens, create a comforting atmosphere reminiscent of home, a feature that quickly drew in notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who frequented the venue for its serene ambiance, seclusion, and outstanding service.

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.

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. 

The Hotel Today

The anniversary of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini serves as a chance to explore the building in its current state, showcasing all the upgrades made to the facilities, particularly over the past five years. While these renovations have modernized the space, the essence of its spacious rooms, featuring kitchenettes like those in apartments, remains intact, accompanied by hotel-like services.

Among the most popular initiatives in recent years has been the High Altitude Brunch, which can be savored every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring on its stunning terrace, celebrated for offering some of the most breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Guests 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 with an Automobile Museum that Transports You 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 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 space, which has turned into a must-visit for enthusiasts of automobiles and Madrid’s cultural heritage. The large photographs adorning the walls, sourced from the ABC newspaper archive, whisk visitors back to an era when these vehicles were integral to the cityscape.

Celebratory Events with Exclusive Views

During the month of October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary by hosting exclusive events on its stunning terrace, which offers the finest views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Additionally, scheduled activities for November will feature guided tours of the classic car museum, along with 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.