Winter escapes don’t have to involve tropical beaches and sunshine or swishing down ski slopes. Check out this new for 2014 Iceland Winter Adventure from REI Adventures. 

Why go:

The people of Iceland make the most of all seasons, and winter is no exception. REI Adventures’ new Iceland Winter Adventure explores stunning countryside while the country is embraced by winter’s icy—and beautiful—grip. Hike the rugged coast, snowshoe across ice-covered lava fields, and walk on crystal-blue glaciers. Along the way be mesmerized by frozen waterfalls, burbling hot springs, and ethereal Northern Lights before retiring to a cozy hotel each night.

A multicolored display of Iceland’s Northern Lights. Photo courtesy of REI Adventures.

What to expect:

When Icelanders hear “winter is coming,” hibernation is the furthest thing from their minds. The inhabitants of this dramatically-beautiful North Atlantic island have learned how to fill all seasons with outdoor activity. This tour makes the most of a wintertime getaway with a week of unexpectedly abundant activities fit for the season.