By now, fans of Netflix's wildly popular series "Virgin River" have become intimately familiar with the charming townsfolk and breathtaking landscapes featured in the show. Every episode immerses viewers in stunning natural beauty, from towering mountains to serene rivers. But here's the big question on everyone's mind: Is Virgin River a real place that fans can visit, or is it purely a creation of the writers' imaginations?
Exploring the Fictional World of Virgin River
While the show paints a vivid picture of life in a picturesque Northern California town, the truth is that Virgin River doesn't actually exist. It's a fictional setting crafted by author Robyn Carr for her beloved book series, which the show is based on. The series stars Alexandra Breckenridge as Melinda "Mel" Monroe, Martin Henderson as Jack Sheridan, Annette O'Toole as Rita Morrison, Tim Matheson as Paul "Doc" Mullins, and many other talented actors who bring this small-town drama to life.
Where Does the Magic Happen? Uncovering the Secrets of Virgin River's Filming Locations
Though Virgin River isn't a real place, the show's magic comes to life in the lush landscapes of Vancouver, British Columbia. W. Robert "Fluffy" Millar, the show's location manager, has an eagle eye for stunning settings that transport viewers to the heart of Northern California.
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Speaking to Tudum in 2022, Millar revealed his process for uncovering these hidden gems. "Just living in B.C. and being here, I always take a picture whenever I see something beautiful," he explained. "With the geo-tagging on phone photographs, if I spot something really cool, I can snap a picture and save it for later. Even years down the road, I can recall that one spot near Vernon and the Okanagan that caught my eye."
Working on a show like "Virgin River" is a dream come true for Millar. "It's all about beautiful people dealing with troubled circumstances in some of the most stunning locations," he shared with Tudum in December 2024. "I'm constantly striving to outdo myself with each episode, searching for even more breathtaking vistas and dense forests. British Columbia is truly a blessing for a show like this. We always work closely with the First Nations communities. The Squamish Nation has been incredibly supportive because we do a lot of filming on their land. Given the show's popularity and its positive message, we've built a fantastic relationship with them."
For Millar, the journey begins with the script. "I do a bit of scouting myself, but I'm lucky to have Sarah Whitlam, an incredible young woman who's been a scout for several seasons now," he revealed. "She's also a talented photographer with an incredible memory of the Greater Vancouver area, known as the Lower Mainland, which ranges from downtown cityscapes to ski resorts just a short drive away."
"The process starts with the words on the page," he added. "We provide multiple physical options for every scripted location. It's a creative challenge I enjoy — understanding the script and knowing that the show thrives on stunning vistas, beautiful locations, and plenty of rivers and forests."
What's Next for Virgin River? Season 7 Details
Fans can rest easy knowing that "Virgin River" will return for a seventh season. As of March 2025, it's currently in production. Showrunner Patrick Sean Smith told Tudum, "There's so much more story to tell with these beloved characters. The journey is far from over!"
