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If BBC One’s Two Weeks in August has you dreaming of a Mediterranean getaway, you’re probably not alone. The new drama starring Jessica Raine is packed with sunshine, hidden beaches and stunning sea views as a group of old friends reunite on a Greek island.
But while the series looks every bit like a holiday in Greece, viewers may be surprised to learn where it was actually filmed.
Where was Two Weeks in August filmed?
Although the drama is set on a Greek island, Two Weeks in August was actually filmed in Malta and Gozo.
The BBC series uses the islands’ coastal scenery, quiet harbours and rocky beaches to create the feeling of a laid-back Mediterranean holiday, even though production never filmed in Greece itself.
Writer Catherine Shepherd revealed that Greece was originally considered, but Malta eventually became the better option for filming while still giving the show the atmosphere they wanted.
Can you stay in the villa from Two Weeks in August?
Much of the drama takes place inside the friends’ holiday villa, where tensions slowly begin to rise throughout the trip.
According to writer Catherine Shepherd, finding the right property took time because many traditional Maltese homes looked too distinctive on screen. Production designer Jon Henson eventually found a farmhouse that could be adapted for filming, with extra features - including the swimming pool - added specially for the series.
However, viewers won’t be able to book a stay there. After filming wrapped, the set was dismantled and the farmhouse was returned to its original state.
Where in Malta was Two Weeks in August filmed?
Several scenes were filmed on Gozo, Malta’s quieter sister island, which helped create the more isolated atmosphere seen in the series.
Locations included dramatic cliffside areas around Dwejra Bay, as well as harbour scenes filmed near Mġarr ix-Xini, a small inlet known for its clear water and peaceful surroundings.
Speaking about filming there, Shepherd explained that the production team wanted locations that felt more remote and untouched.
Even though filming took place in Malta, Greece still plays an important role in the story itself.
Throughout the series, there are references to Greek mythology as Zoe begins to emotionally unravel during the holiday. Catherine Shepherd has said her own memories of visiting Greek islands helped inspire the show’s setting and themes.
The mythology elements also help give the drama a slightly darker and more emotional edge beneath the sunshine and holiday atmosphere.
Two Weeks in August begins on BBC One at 9pm on the 23rd May and is also available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
Arabella Horspool is a Commercial Content Writer for Yours at Bauer Media. A devoted bookworm and TV fan, she’s always immersed in the latest shows or catching the newest films and theatre productions. When she’s not writing, Arabella enjoys cooking and exploring the outdoors with her dog.