Thuir and the Byrrh Cave

22/11/2020
Catalan culture, Heritage, Tourism

Thuir and the Byrrh Cave, emblematic heritage of the Catalan Country

Thuir and the Byrrh Cave are among the essential visits of the Catalan Country. Located in the Aspres plain, between sea and mountains, this Catalan village seduces as much by its unique industrial heritage as by its southern atmosphere and its famous traditional market.

If this village attracts so many visitors, this is mainly for two major reasons : the discovery of the Cave Byrrh and its immense oak vat, and its lively Saturday morning market. Without forgetting, just a few minutes away, the magnificent village of Castelnou, classified among the most beautiful villages in France.

The Byrrh Cave in Thuir, a family story that has become global

The history of Cave Byrrh begins in the 19th century with the Violet family, and more particularly Simon Violet. Thanks to his wine knowledge and business acumen, he develops an innovative formula based on wine and cinchona.

At that time, cinchona is considered a medicinal remedy. The idea of transforming this preparation into an aperitif met with dazzling success. The Byrrh brand is rapidly expanding internationally, becoming one of the most exported French aperitifs in the world.

The success is such that the company invests massively in communication. Famous poster designers and award-winning artists create advertising posters that have now become true works of art. This modern strategy for the time helps to promote Byrrh well beyond borders.

The largest oak vat in the world

Faced with growing demand, Cave Byrrh must adapt its production capacities. This is how the largest oak vat in the world was built.

This impressive tank measures over 10 meters high and can hold more than a million liters. It alone symbolizes the extent of the brand's success and today constitutes one of the highlights of the visit.

The discovery of the cellars allows you to explore a real industrial heritage, with its gigantic thunderbolts, its impressive galleries and its atmosphere steeped in history.

Visit the Byrrh Cave, it’s understanding how a local visionary idea became an iconic international brand.

The market, unmissable event in Aspres

Every Saturday morning, the city center comes alive around its traditional market. Local producers, artisans and traders take over the squares and alleys to offer typical products from the Catalan Country.

We find there :

seasonal fruits and vegetables
artisan cheeses
Catalan charcuterie
local wines
regional specialties

This market is renowned for its authenticity and friendly atmosphere. It perfectly reflects the identity of Aspres, rural territory located between the Roussillon plain and the foothills of the Pyrenees.

It’s an ideal time to discover local flavors and interact with producers..

Castelnou, one of the most beautiful villages in France nearby

Just a few minutes from Thuir, the village of Castelnou worth a visit. Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, it dominates the valley with its viscount castle and its cobbled streets.

Its stone houses, its artisan workshops and its panoramas over the Canigou make it an ideal complementary getaway after visiting the Cave Byrrh.

The Thuir association, Castelnou and the Aspres landscapes offer a complete immersion in the authentic Catalan Country.

A getaway between heritage and the sweetness of life

Thuir and Cave Byrrh represent a perfect destination for a cultural and gourmet day. Between historical visit, tasting, local market and discovery of the surrounding villages, the experience is rich and varied.

After this immersion in Catalan heritage, it's nice to find one of your lodgings in a more peaceful environment in the hinterland, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural serenity of the territory.

FAQ – Thuir et la Cave Byrrh

Why visit Thuir ?

This Catalan village is famous for the Cave Byrrh, its traditional Saturday market and its proximity to Castelnou, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France.