It wasn't long after we moved to Corner Brook, NL, 30 years ago, that we got out the map to find out where the places named in the popular folk song "I's the B'y" actually were. It turns out that they are all along the northeast shore of central Newfoundland in a scenic, island-studded region.

Some of the islands and communities have now been connected by causeways, as in the case of Twillingate and Moreton's Harbour, but others like Fogo can only be accessed by ferry.

We have visited these areas numerous times and have always had a memorable holiday, in part because there is so much to see and do. On one visit, we explored the varied shorelines in our sea kayaks. From smooth beaches to rugged cliffs, this area is ideal for that (as long as you keep in mind that this is the North Atlantic, and conditions can change quickly).Other highlights from past trips include a visit to Auk Island Winery and the Long Point Lighthouse in Twillingate-a favourite place to watch spectacular sunsets.

We also took a boat tour in Twillingate through the most amazing icebergs we have ever seen. Another time we were skunked by the weather as a hurricane rolled through, but it disappeared as quickly as it arrived. Twenty-four hours later we spent a splendid, sunny day on Fogo Island, exploring the community of Tilting, known for its strong Irish connection.

We've hiked to the top of Brimstone Head in the community of Fogo-one of the four corners of the earth according to the Flat Earth Society. It's a mighty steep drop, but a sign reassures visitors: "No one has fallen off yet!"

On our last stay in Moreton's Harbour we asked one resident if she could point out any links to the song "I's the B'y." She told us she could do one better. "How would you like to talk to Barry Dearing, great grandson of the song's composer? He just lives down the road." A few minutes later, we were at his house. "In his day, these communities were not all that far apart by boat. Today, with all of the causeways and ferries, they seem like they are separated-but by water they are just around the corner from one another."

Last fall, we packed our hiking boots to explore some of the new trails that had just been marked. A call from Fred Bridger, owner of the Paradise Bed & Breakfast in Twillingate was all we needed.

"If you like coastal hiking you can't do much better than these trails," he told me over the phone. "The trails pass by sea stacks, sea cliffs and we even have some osprey and eagles that nest in the area. At this time of year you won't see any icebergs, but you can nibble on blueberries if you like-the trails go through some fine berry patches." Fred also offered to act as our guide for a couple of days, and we could not resist.

On our first day we explored the area near the community of Durrell, which is adjacent to Twillingate. "These trails were created by local fishermen to hunt birds or to check the ice conditions off the coast," Fred told us. "All we did was connect them so that they would form loops. We prefer to hike in a loop so you don't see the same scenery twice."

In fact, the trails resemble a rocky rollercoaster. Even though the high points may only be 60 to 80 metres above sea level, there is a considerable amount of up and down. Good hiking shoes are a must and, on a hot day, extra water, a snack and a windbreaker are a good idea. We hiked the five-kilometre French Beach-Spiller's Cove trail and the seven kilometres from Spiller's Cove to Codjack's Cove, which can be done as one loop or as separate hikes.

Next came the three kilometres on the "Top of Twillingate" trail, which leads to a local high point that offers four lookout platforms and a tower at the top. The summit is about 110 metres high and gives good views in all directions.

Then we headed to the Long Point Lighthouse to walk to Lower Cove and back. This was my favourite trail, since it had great views, a scenic coastline and lots of variety. This loop is about five kilometres but runs through hilly terrain.

The "All around the Circle" route is ideal for those seeking an authentic and relaxing experience outside the conventional tourist experience, and who want to have an  opportunity to meet many of the charming local people. 

If you go:

• Crewe's Heritage B&B
• Paradise B&B
• Central Newfoundland Destination
• Tourism Newfoundland
• French Beach-Spiller's Cove Trail
• Spiller's Cove to Codjack's Cove Trail
• Top of Twillingate Trail