ApartoSuites Jardines Sabatini: 50 years of hospitality in Madrid

ApartoSuites Jardines Sabatini: 50 years of hospitality in Madrid

The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this coming October. It has been fifty years since it welcomed its first guests in the center of the city, mere moments away 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 accommodations, featuring fully equipped kitchens, create a home-like atmosphere that quickly drew in a number of notable guests, including the poet Rafael Alberti and the actress Nuria Espert, who became frequent visitors due to the establishment’s serene ambiance, intimate privacy, 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.

Similar to him, numerous Spaniards chose to embark on a business endeavor that was anticipated to thrive during that period. With General Franco’s dictatorship evidently nearing its conclusion, the nation was increasingly embracing its integration into a blossoming Europe. Near the hotel, the area that was cleared for the dismantling of the Cuartel de la Montaña had been transformed into the Temple of Debod, which was meticulously transported stone by stone from Aswan. The skyline of Madrid sparked visions of a contemporary city in a progressive 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 dynamic society, ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini came into existence and has adapted alongside it up to the present day. 

The Hotel Today

The celebration of ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini’s anniversary serves as a chance to explore the establishment as it stands today, showcasing all the upgrades that have been implemented in the facilities, particularly over the past five years. While embracing the idea of spacious rooms equipped with kitchenettes akin to apartments, it continues to offer the amenities of a hotel.

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.

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 boasts genuine automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a stylish Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section named España Cañí, where classic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the renowned Vespa featured in the film “Amanece, que no es poco” are showcased.

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

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 represents a truly significant moment for us, and we aim 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,” remarks Charo García Silgo. “We have observed the transformation of the city, and we take pride in being a venue where tradition intertwines with modernity, and where, despite utilizing the latest technologies, our greatest strength remains 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.

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