Julia Bradbury's Iceland Walk (2011)

A couple of weeks ago BBC4 had 'Iceland Week', which consisted over a number of documentaries, films and a sitcom about or made in that wonderful frozen country in the north. The first one we watched was Julia Bradbury's Iceland Walk, which does exactly what it says in the title. I don't know who Julia Bradbury is (I think she's on Countryfile) and on the evidence here I wouldn't make a point of watching her in anything else. 

The best parts of the programme were the gorgeous shots of the barren, verdant or icy Icelandic landscape, coupled with interesting narration about the country and it's geographic features. Julia's work took her around and up the country around the famous volcano that erupted last year and grounded all of Europe's 'planes. Guided by a knowledgable Icelander, Julia walked through Moon-like terrain, waded barefoot through freezing streams and trudged across ashen no-man's-lands between huts that provided overnight shelter. Julia's commentary during the walks consisted mostly of exclaiming about how amazing everything was and looked and didn't venture much beyond bland platitudes or pronouncements. I think if I was walking with her I'd leave her behind somewhere. Other than that, it was a good introduction to Iceland, and for those like me who've been there, a reminder of how great it is and how much I want to go back.