Walking holidays in France

From the Pyrenees to the Breton coast, walking tours in France can cover a lot of ground. With The Walking Party though, whether you are looking for the challenge of a few hills or a relaxed gourmet tour, we have got the perfect trip for you.

The Walking Party is run by me, James Tamlyn. I personally plan and guide each trip, and love introducing the area around my adopted home in southern France. I have lived in the region for over 30 years, and have been able to develop my passions for local flora and fauna – as well as food and wine!

Since 1998, I have been creating walking holidays and culinary tours for experienced hikers and weekend amblers alike. My carefully chosen routes are designed to not only take you on an enjoyable ramble but to also give you an insight into the culture, food and history of the region you are walking through. I have established strong links with both communities and individuals, allowing us to offer gourmet holidays and walking tours that show you a hidden side of France.

Food, wine and walking

A well earned meal tastes that much better, and when it’s freshly prepared by a French chef it tastes sublime! My food tours take in both gourmet dishes and local specialities and we also visit vineyards and sample local wines. The aim is to give you a taste of the region, from its most famous dishes to hidden gems. On some of the culinary tours in France, you’ll have the opportunity to gather your own ingredients, cook your own dishes and learn from local chefs.

Walking tours with a difference

Whilst some of my tours focus more on the culinary environment in France, they always focus on the physical environment too. I describe the amount and type of walking we shall be doing in each of the tours, and offer a detailed itinerary to help you decide whether the level is appropriate for you. Many of the tours take place in the warm climate of southern France, and the terrain varies enormously from the flat river plateaux to the Pyrenees mountains. Seasonal variations can also make a particular walk easier or harder, so if you have any questions about the level of walking on a particular tour, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Catering to mixed abilities

Everyone has different levels of fitness and endurance. Our goal is to make each trip enjoyable for every member of our group so while we explore many areas on foot, our minibus will be along to carry the luggage and give anyone who needs a break a lift to the next destination. We pride ourselves on making this a holiday not a task. A holiday that you will remember for the rest of your lives!