If there's a single keynote for Tasmania's north-east, its colour. As you travel through this part of the Island, the hues of the land, the sky and the sea change before your eyes.

Take romantic strolls on uncrowded beaches and linger over meals of the freshest seafood the wines, the coffee and the views are superb. Or simply watch islands float on the horizon from your stylish waterside accommodation.

The picturesque fishing port of St Helens is the north-east coast's largest town. Beyond the sand bar, the ocean offers up game fish, while to the north are the exquisite beaches, wildlife and Aboriginal middens of the Bay of Fires and Mount William National Park.

If you love a tasty true farm cheese, head inland to Pyengana cheesery the cloth-bound cheddar is in a class of its own. Or drive along a mountain pass to the Mt Elephant Pancake Barn, and then loop back through St Marys.

The Bay of Fires Walk, the Freycinet Experience and Maria Island Walk are just a few of the guided multi-day hikes that take you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Australia. When you are not walking or cruising, youll be pampered in quality accommodation or standing camps. And therell be plenty of time to socialise and indulge yourself over a gourmet meal and a glass of wine.

Your adventurous spirit will be inspired at Freycinet National Park. Above the peninsulas main settlement of Coles Bay, climbers and abseilers test their skills on The Hazards pink and grey granite rocks, while sea kayakers paddle in the waters below, and quad bikes head for Friendly Beaches.

If you prefer something more romantic, take the short walk across a saddle to the perfect half-moon of Wineglass Bay.

Near the beachside towns of Bicheno and Swansea are vineyards and berry farms stop for berry ice cream or a boutique cool-climate wine. Or head for Triabunna to catch the ferry to Maria Island, a national park with a surprising history of convicts and industrious dreamers. Dive in the marine park, hike to fossil cliffs and make friends with the local menagerie.