Fans of the hit Netflix series Virgin River love its warm stories and characters. They also love the stunning backdrop of the fictional Northern California town. The show’s setting, with its tall trees and small towns, feels like a character. The tranquil rivers add to the effect. 

So, where is Virgin River filmed? The series is set in Northern California. But, most of the filming is in the stunning landscapes of British Columbia, Canada. Join us on a journey to explore the filming locations of Virgin River. We’ll see why they are so iconic. 

British Columbia: The Real-Life Virgin River

Virgin River films mainly in British Columbia, known for its forests and mountains. Its natural beauty perfectly captures the idyllic charm of the fictional town where is virgin river filmed. Here are some of the most notable spots used in the series:

Snug Cove, Bowen Island

Snug Cove, located on Bowen Island, is one of the main filming locations for the series. This quaint area provides the small-town feel that defines Virgin River. The ferry terminal and local shops often appear in exterior shots. They are key landmarks in the fictional town. 

Why Bowen Island? 

Bowen Island has a peaceful, secluded vibe. It matches the close-knit community in the show. Its proximity to Vancouver also makes it a practical choice for production crews. 

Downtown New Westminster

Parts of downtown New Westminster, a city near Vancouver, are also featured in the series. This location suits scenes needing a slightly urban look. For example, when characters leave Virgin River. 

Key Spots to Note

The quaint storefronts and pedestrian-friendly streets of New Westminster experience a subtle transformation. They now blend with Virgin River’s aesthetic. 

Burnaby’s Deer Lake Park

Deer Lake Park in Burnaby provides many of the lush, forested backdrops for Virgin River. Its scenic trails, a peaceful lake, and dense greenery make it ideal for outdoor scenes. 

Memorable Scenes  

Deer Lake Park is a backdrop for pivotal moments. It hosts romantic walks and intense conversations among the trees. 

Squamish The Outdoor Paradise 

Squamish, a town north of Vancouver, is another key location for the series. Squamish, the “Outdoor Recreation Capital of Canada,” has stunning mountains and rivers. They embody the beauty of the Virgin River in an exemplary manner. 

Famous Landmarks  

The Squamish River and nearby forests provide iconic shots of Virgin River’s calm beauty. 

Port Coquitlam’s Glover Road

Glover Road in Fort Langley, a historic part of Port Coquitlam, often serves as Virgin River’s main street. Fort Langley has a cozy vibe. Its small shops and friendly feel make it a perfect choice. 

The Waterside Cabin Jack’s Bar

Jack’s Bar is iconic in Virgin River. It’s the town’s hub. Characters gather there to connect and unwind, sharing life’s ups and downs. 

Real-Life Location  

Jack’s Bar is not a real establishment but a set constructed on private property in British Columbia. The waterside cabin aesthetic draws inspiration from many local structures. 

Fan Favorite  

Jack’s Bar is a fan favorite. Its cozy interior and scenic views embody the warmth of Virgin River. 

The River Itself: Fraser River

The Fraser River, a major waterway in British Columbia, stands in for the Virgin River. Its flowing waters and calm surroundings embody the series’ peaceful yet dramatic setting. 

The Magic of British Columbia

The choice to film in British Columbia is no surprise, given its reputation as a haven for filmmakers. Its diverse landscapes let production teams create many settings nearby. Also, the province offers tax incentives for film and TV productions. This makes it a great location for Netflix and other studios. 

How the Filming Locations Enhance the Show  

The visual appeal of Virgin River is a significant part of its charm. The stunning locations enhance the story, not just the backdrop.

Tranquility and Romance: The serene landscapes reflect the characters’ emotional journeys. They provide moments of reflection and connection. 

Isolation and Intimacy: Bowen Island and Fort Langley have a small-town feel. They highlight the close relationships and personal struggles at the story’s heart. 

Squamish and the Fraser River exhibit a rugged beauty. They reflect the story’s wild, adventurous spirit. 

Can You Visit These Locations?  

Many of the filming locations are accessible to the public, making them a must-visit for fans of the show. 

• Bowen Island: Easily reachable by ferry from Vancouver, Bowen Island offers a perfect day trip for exploring Snug Cove and soaking in the small-town charm.  

• Deer Lake Park: Visitors can walk the trails and enjoy the peaceful lake that features prominently in the series.  
• Fort Langley: This historic area offers guided tours and plenty of local shops to explore.  

For die-hard fans, taking a self-guided tour of these locations provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Virgin River and experience its magic firsthand.  

Conclusion:

Virgin River is set in Northern California. But, its heart is in the stunning landscapes of British Columbia. From Bowen Island’s charming streets to Squamish’s wildness, these filming spots create a world as real and inviting as the characters.  

Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, exploring the real-life Virgin River is a journey worth taking. British Columbia’s beauty brings the fictional town to life. It also shows nature’s power in storytelling.  

So, the next time you watch Virgin River, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking scenery—it’s as much a part of the story as the characters we’ve come to love.