Scotland’s Greatest Escape is back - News

Article published 11/03/2025

Launched this week...

Scotland’s Greatest Escape reveals the best holiday escapes Scotland has to offer. This time, presenter Grado is joined by weather expert Judith Ralston, swapping the BBC Scotland weather studio for an unforgettable adventure on the road.

No passports required – this dynamic duo is on a mission to uncover Scotland’s ultimate holiday destinations. From the rugged Highlands to the picturesque shores of Dumfries & Galloway, they’ll be uncovering hidden gems, luxurious retreats, and budget-friendly stays to suit every kind of traveller.

Grado and Judith’s journey will take them across land, sea, and even air, as they experience everything from houseboats and castle estates to treehouses and unique eco-retreats. Along the way, they’ll meet the passionate people behind these remarkable stays and delve into the fascinating stories that make each escape special.

And they’re not just relying on travel guides – social media has played a key role in shaping their itinerary. Taking recommendations from locals, the pair will dive into thrilling activities such as bungee jumping at Killiecrankie, salmon spotting at Rogie Falls, and soaring above the Black Isle on a scenic flight.

Scotland’s Greatest Escape, series three, is a Red Sky Production for BBC Scotland and BBC iPlayer. The new series launched at 10:30pm on 10 March, on BBC Scotland, with all episodes available on BBC iPlayer.

Episode one - Perthshire

Grado and Judith kick off their journey in Perthshire, diving into an action-packed escape across "Big Tree Country."

Their first stop is Craighead Howfs, a magical retreat near Dunblane featuring treehouses, cottages, and burrows hand built by the owners with locally sourced wood and stone.

On their drive to the next escape, the pair take to social media to ask the locals for must-try activities in the area, taking on bungee jumping at Killiecrankie and tubing the rapids of the River Tummel.

Their second Perthshire getaway is Taymouth Marina on the banks of Loch Tay, a luxury resort offering a gastro pub, spa, and plenty of water activities. The pair attempt paddleboarding before settling into houseboats with breathtaking views.

Their final stop is the Old Manse of Blair, a boutique hotel near Blair Atholl, where they wrap up their adventure with a gourmet meal prepared by a world-class chef.

Perthshire leaves a lasting impression, delivering more than they ever expected.

two people standing next to each other with a burrow, cottage style house in the background.

Grado and Judith outside one of the burrows at Craighead Howf in Perthshire. Credit: BBC Scotland / Red Sky productions

Episode two - the Highlands

In episode two, Grado and Judith are on a voyage of discovery amidst the wild beauty of the Highlands.

Their first stop is the Black Isle, where they discover Newhall Mains, a boutique hotel with vast grounds and its own private runway. As an aviation enthusiast, Grado jumps at the chance of a scenic flight, buckling up to take in spectacular aerial views of the landscape.

Between stays, the pair turn to social media for recommendations and head to Rogie Falls, a stunning series of waterfalls on the Black Water. They also take to the waters themselves for a canoe ride at Aigas Gorge, taking in the beautiful scenery around them.

For their second escape, they visit Dundreggan Rewilding Centre near Glenmoriston for a budget-friendly escape with a purpose. Set within 10,000 acres of Highland wilderness, the centre offers hostel-style accommodation designed with sustainability in mind.

For the final escape, it’s camping with a twist. Grado and Judith take to the road in matching 4x4s, each equipped with rooftop tent. They head to the Moray Coast, setting up camp at Fortrose and are rewarded the next morning with an unforgettable sight of dolphins playing in the waters of the Moray Firth.

two people standing next to each other outside on a summers day with a picturesque backdrop of a castle ruin, and coast line. Judith and Grado at Urquhart Castle on the banks of Inverness. Credit: BBC Scotland / Red Sky productions.