The iconic Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini hotel marks its 50th anniversary this October. Half a century has elapsed since it welcomed its first guests in the center of the city, just a short distance from what was once the North Station and situated at the base of the Príncipe Pío hill.
In the Madrid of the seventies, the idea behind the establishment was so revolutionary that it required a unique term specifically created for it: apartosuites. The spaciousness and amenities of its rooms were designed for extended visits, and thus, since its inception in 1974, it aimed to provide its patrons with far more than just lodging: a true Madrid experience that blended the comforts of an apartment with the conveniences of 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 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.
Many Spaniards, like him, chose to embark on enterprises that were believed to be promising at that time. With the dictatorship of General Franco evidently nearing its conclusion, the nation felt more integrated into a thriving Europe. Nearby the hotel, the area formerly occupied by the Cuartel de la Montaña had been transformed into the Temple of Debod, which was 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 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 is an opportunity to get to know the building today, with all the renovations that have been carried out in the facilities, especially in the last five years, but maintaining the concept of its large rooms equipped with kitchenette as apartments, but with the services 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.
From the moment you step into ApartoSuites Jardines de Sabatini, you are enveloped in art. In addition to Fernandes’ mural, the space features installations by the urban art collective Boa Mistura, positioned throughout various parts of the building, along with his graffiti piece “Del Corazón al Cielo” (From the Heart to the Sky), which spans 62 square meters. The contributions of painter Cristina Gamón, seen in the hotel lobby and breakfast area, along with those of Oscar Vautherin, who crafted the sculptures flanking the entrance and the piece “Five Left Feet” in the reception area, round out the ensemble of talented artists.
A Hotel with an Automobile Museum That Transport You to Early 20th Century Madrid
One of the great attractions of Apartosuites Jardines de Sabatini is its exclusive classic car museum, located in the basement of the building. It was designed in memory of José Luis García at the request of his daughters Charo and Monica García Silgo.
This captivating collection features remarkable automotive treasures, including a 1915 Ford T, a sophisticated Hispano-Suiza, and a unique section dubbed España Cañí, showcasing iconic vehicles like biscuters, motorcycles, and the well-known 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
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 represents a truly significant milestone for us, and we wish to celebrate it with everyone who has contributed to our journey and those who are just discovering us,” states Charo García Silgo. “We have observed the transformations within the city, and we take pride in being a venue where tradition merges with modernity, and where, despite embracing the latest technologies, our greatest asset remains our dedicated 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.