BY CORINIA WILLIAMS
The legendary Hotel Byblos in Saint Tropez has hosted some of the world's
most famous celebrities throughout its history, and it is still regarded
as a jet-setter's haven for stylish travelers from around the globe. This
dynamic, luxurious, festive, and exclusive resort reflects the personality
of the current Owner and CEO, Antoine Chevanne, who follows in his great
grandfather Sylvain Floirat's footsteps.
The elder Floirat, born in 1899 in a small village in the French region
of Dordonge, began his career running a bus company and went on to create
the popular radio station, Europe 1, before building the fabulous Hotel
Byblos Saint Tropez. Sylvain was truly a visionary and masterful in business
and hospitality, proudly honored by Antoine. From 2001-2005 Antoine, managed
the Hotel Byblos Saint Tropez and then in 2006 he became the CEO of the
company he would rename in 2007, Groupe Floirat, in honor of his great
grandfather. While unquestionably in good hands, Group Floirat's
long-standing reputation for unparallel luxury is stronger than ever.
Located in the heart of Saint Tropez, the Byblos was designed in the style
Provencal village. The 41 rooms and 50 suites all are unique in
design and décor. To add to the allure of the Hotel Byblos Saint
Tropez are the poolside B. and Spoon restaurants - both considered among
the top places to see and be seen in Saint Tropez - and the world renowned
night club Caves du Roy. The Group's other hotels include La Réserve,
Hôtel & Residence, and Les Manoirs de Tourgeville. Each property
is alive with the style, grace, and luxury defined by Antoine.
Long regarded has an arbiter of style, Groupe Floirat directives are watched
by both the hospitality and style industries. Antoine added a club/lounge/restaurant
to the Group's holdings when the Black Legend Monaco opened in 2009
to rave reviews. The opening celebration featured performances by a stellar
house band and true icons of the Motown era, The Supremes and Martha Reeves
and the Vandellas. This unique venue features a musical atmosphere with
live Motown sounds in the early evening and then transforms into an exclusive
nightclub in the evening that attracts an impressively stylish crowd.
We hear that Antoine Chevanne now has his sites on the next big thing
for Groupe Floirat, and rumor has it that you may find him in New
York, LA, Miami, or Rio looking for his next Byblos or Black Legend, both
of which would be a great addition to any city.
Gregarious to meet, yet reserved in demeanor, Antoine is very driven and
his business acumen never excludes the upmost concern for the guest's
experience. Like Sir Richard Branson, Christopher Bailey at Burberry, or
Gerry McGovern at Land Rover, bringing luxury, style, and a great deal of
fun to work and play has set a tone for their brands that distinguish them
above others.
www.groupe-floirat.com
Top row: Hotel Byblos Saint Tropez
Side top: Antoine Chevanne introducing Black Legend to the press and esteemed
guests on opening night.
Side middle: Les Manoirs de Tourgeville in Deauville is the latest addition
to the Groupe Floirat.
Side bottom: The legendary Caves du Roy at Hotel Byblos Saint Tropez.
Contents page: David Guetta and Antoine Chevanne; Martha Reeves and the Vandellas
performing at Black Legend in Monaco on opening night.
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