Every other Friday evening from March through October the “Fish and Chips” truck pulls to a stop on the promenade in Quillan. It’s one of several destinations around the Haute Valley rotating on a two week schedule.

Every Saturday in Quillan and every Sunday in Esperaza hungry patrons filter to the stand behind which Rene Hunnekink sells the products he grew up with in Holland.

Summer months are usually a vibrant time here. Tourists descend from around the EU and beyond, the terraces of the bars and cafes overflow, reservations are essential at restaurants, and day markets are jammed.