Catalonia This part of the Rousillon was originally in Spain and is known as Catalan country. The area is heavily influenced by a mixture of both Spanish and French traditions. This is no more evident than in the style of cooking which is unique to this part of France. Food in this part of France is rich, flavoursome and hearty. Catalan dishes include a fusion of French and Spanish styles with a variety of meats, sausages and seafood dishes. In Thuir, you can enjoy an authentic Seafood Paella or feast on Mussels and chips. The area around Mas San Julian is rural and open. The Mas itself is surrounded by peach and apricot orchards which thrive in the rich soils at the foot of the mountains. Open space is undulated, or hilly, green and lush with vegetation. The rural nature of this area is part of what makes Mas San Julian so special and what makes a holiday here so desirable.