With a background in the travel industry and passion for culture, gastronomy and nature, James Tamlyn set up The Walking Party in 1998. The company is run from his 18th-century farmhouse in southwest France.

From an office with views over the Pyrenees, James personally plans and guides every trip. He oversees all aspects, from handpicking the hotels and menus to creating glorious picnic lunches that celebrate the best regional food. Over the years James has established links with artisans, chefs and other local characters; now deep-rooted, these bonds shape the itineraries and experiences.

James has a longstanding love of flora and fauna; he is a keen lepidopterist and is always on hand to share his knowledge with guests wishing to learn more about the local landscape. He is also extremely interested in cooking which comes to the fore in the menu planning. Being a keen wine buyer is also a handy tool for the selection of wines with food.

James has lived in southwest France for over 25 years, in a region where food and the soil are inextricably linked. He has two children Coco and Louis and takes an active part in local village life having sat on the local village council for a decade.

It’s these elements that influence The Walking Party experience, where you are treated as a genuine friend and always welcomed back.