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 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 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 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.
Like him, there were many Spaniards who decided to venture into an enterprise which, at that time, was predicted to be prosperous. General Franco’s dictatorship was clearly coming to an end, and the country felt increasingly part of a flourishing Europe. In the vicinity of the hotel, the site that had given way to the demolition of the Cuartel de la Montaña had been occupied by the temple of Debod, brought stone by stone from Aswan, and the skyline of Madrid allowed us to begin to dream of a modern city in a modern world.
No remnants remained of the washerwomen who once descended the Cuesta de San Vicente towards the river, nor of their refuge, which was torn down in the 1930s. Likewise, there was no sign of the first public swimming pool in Madrid, known as “Los baños del Niágara,” which vanished in favor of Bernardo García’s concession, and now occupies what has become 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 is the High Altitude Brunch, available every Saturday and Sunday from autumn through spring, enjoyed on its stunning terrace, renowned for offering breathtaking views of the Royal Palace. Guests can access it directly from the street via a glass elevator that provides a glimpse of 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 Featuring an Automobile Museum That Whisks You Back 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 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 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.
Commemorative Events with Exclusive Views
During the entire month of October, the hotel will commemorate its 50th anniversary with special events held on its magnificent terrace, offering the finest views of Madrid’s Royal Palace. Planned activities for 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 presents a distinctive chance to rediscover a location where history resonates in every nook and the warmth of hospitality is experienced from the very first visit. Fifty years of outstanding service, comfort, and unmatched views of Madrid.